swings and roundabouts

What the heck is a swing?

It has received many a mention in the Les Mis debate.

Understudy = a performer who learns the part of someone else who is cast in a role, in case that performer suddenly can't perform. Often the understudy may also be cast in a chorus role. For big productions there may be a "chain" of understudies who all "move up a notch". Or sometimes one person has the unenviable task of learning every male/female role, and can substitute for anyone should the need arise.

When "swing" roles are cast, two performers are cast in the same role, to perform on alternate nights. On their "off night" they probably share a smaller or chorus role, effectively understudying each other.


crg

~<8>-/====/-----------

Now, what's a roundabout?

Eliot

Eliot McCann wrote:
-------------------------------
>>Now, what's a roundabout?

>>Eliot



roundabout = the manner in which I try to explain a point of view by starting from a loose thread and progressing (or regressing as the case may be) via every possible inconsequential tangent in order to disguise the lack of authorative conclusion by thoroughly confusing the pertinent issues in a haze of vague observations for their own sake and with dubious potential for humour and....um, does anyone remember, should I have indicated before entering, or upon exiting this roundabout.??


Cheers
Craig
~<8>-/====/----------

You are right - 'swings' comes from the Yankee "swing-shift"

Roundabout - depends which side of the big pond your on - it could become a carousel. There again it also depends if your are a "warm prop" - as all things are normaly missunderstood. But if you are a 'black duck' [one of the chosen] all these things become a 'revolve'.
I'm sure this is not what the question is about.
Although, on the other hand, with those that only emote on the boards - they might actually understand. Could it possibly be true - they realy have a reason for mote'n about.

Gaafa

....um, does anyone remember, should I have indicated before entering, or upon exiting this roundabout.??


'Roundabouts

The following information should assist.

Regardless of the type of roundabout, all vehicles entering must give way to any vehicle already within the roundabout.

You must always obey arrows marked on the road and only go in the directions indicated by the arrows.

You should signal your intention to leave the roundabout with your left indicator. If you are making the equivalent of a right turn (ie: going round to 'three o'clock') signal with your right indicator before entering and with your left on leaving.

Vehicle positioning and indication when using a roundabout.
There is often confusion (by drivers of all ages) about the correct procedure for using roundabouts.

Left hand exit
Approach in the left lane only (if more than one lane)
Use your left indicator on the approach and through the roundabout

Going straight through
Approach in the left lane or right lane (if more than one lane)
Do not indicate on the approach
If it is practicable, use your left indicator just prior to your chosen exit
Remember that large vehicles such as buses and trucks may need more than one lane to enter or exit a roundabout, so please allow plenty of clearance.

Right hand exit
Approach in the right lane only (if more than one lane)
Use your right indicator on the approach and leave it on until just before you are going to exit
Check the left lane is clear but stay in the right lane
If it is practicable, use your left indicator just prior to your chosen exit

Full circle (U-turn)
Approach in the right lane only (if more than one lane)
Use your right indicator on the approach and leave it on until just before you are going to exit
Check the left lane is clear but stay in the right lane
If it is practicable, use your left indicator just prior to your chosen exit'

From the Road Safety Older Users Guidebook


tee hee

Melissa

As far as I am aware (I have friends who have been employed as "swings" in musicals in the East) a "swing" learns several minor/chorus roles but does not necessarily go on stage. If a lead actor gets sick his understudy (who is usually in a minor role or the chorus) will fill his shoes and the "swing" will then fill the void.

Needless to say, "swinging" is not popular with actors as they have to learn four or five roles but may not be guaranteed a performance!

According to my understanding of the the term, "swing" has been incorrectly used in the Les Mis debate. We really have only one "swing" (A very talented young man who knows every student role (and others) but thankfully gets to go on every night due to the double casting of the leads).

Cheers,
Gill

>> Needless to say, "swinging" is not popular with actors as they have to learn four or five roles but may not be guaranteed a performance!

Speak for yourself, Gill! Dean Schulze and I are ardent practitioners (although neither could be generously described as actors). The only drawback is when we end up with each other's car keys (which seems to happen uncannily often, now that I think about it.....)

JB