understudy n : an actor able to replace a regular performer when required [syn: standby] v : be an understudy or alternate for a role [syn: alternate] [also: understudied]

Understudy \Un"der*stud`y\, v. t. & i. (Theater) To study, as another actor's part, in order to be his substitute in an emergency; to study another actor's part.

Understudy \Un"der*stud`y\, n. One who studies another's part with a view to assuming it in an emergency.

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In theater, an understudy is a performer who learns the lines and blocking/choreography of a regular actor or actress in a play. Should the regular actor or actress be unable to appear on stage because of illness or emergencies, the understudy takes over the part. Usually, when the understudy takes over, the theater manager will make the announcement prior to the start of the performance.

In the opera world, the term used is cover or covering.

More recently, the term "understudy" has generally only been applied to performers who will cover a part, but still regularly perform in another role within the show; usually a minor, extra role.

Performers who are only committed to covering a part and do not regularly appear in the show are often referred to as standbys. Standbys are normally required to sign-in and remain at the theater the same as other cast members, although sometimes they may call in, until they are released by the Production Stage Manager. If there is no doubt about the health of the actor being "covered," or there are no hazardous stunts to be performed, a standby may be released at the first intermission if not before. At times, standbys are required to stay within a certain area around the theater (10 blocks in New York City is a common standard). The standby must also have a cell phone so that at any time they can be called to the theater.

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  BUENOS AIRES, May 23 (Reuters) - AS Roma midfielder Erik Lamela has earned a first call-up to Argentina's World Cup qualifying squad with Lionel Messi also picked but in doubt with a hamstring problem. Lamela, named in coach Alejandro Sabella's squad on Thursday, could step in for Messi if he does not recover in time from his injury to face Colombia at hom Read more on this news related to 'Understudy'
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