Broadway Swings - by J Austin Eyer & Lyndy Franklin Smith (Paperback)

About the Book

"What is a Broadway Swing? Eyer and Smith delve deep into the responsibilities and rigors, joy and turmoil of performing this very difficult job. The position of a Swing (Understudy for the Ensemble) on Broadway is examined from every angle, showing just how vital Swings are to the success of any Broadway production. Eyer and Smith finally give Swings their voice, literally, by printing their own words and stories about the glories and hardships of their lives as Swings. The men and women waiting in the wings finally get their chance to stand in the spotlight. For anyone who is interested in becoming a Swing, or about to start their first job as a Swing, the "how-to" portions of this book and behind-the-scenes-insight will prove invaluable. Part history and part how-to, this book traces the entire journey of a Swing's life on Broadway, from auditions and how Swings are selected to the ups and downs of rehearsals and performances. Over 100 Broadway pros and Swing veterans have been interviewed alongside many Stage Managers, Casting Directors, Choreographers and Directors to gain their perspective on what it takes to be a good Swing. Notable people interviewed include Rob Ashford, Susan Stroman, Jerry Mitchell, Larry Fuller, Tony Stevens, Beverley Randolph and Frank Dilella of NY1's Onstage"--

Book Synopsis

In this textbook for performers, the position of a Swing-an Understudy for the Ensemble-on Broadway is examined from every angle, showing just how vital Swings are to the success of any musical theatre production.
Authors J. Austin Eyer and Lyndy Franklin Smith draw on their own experiences as performers, and gather first-hand stories from other Swings about the glories and hardships of their industry. The book features interviews with over 100 Broadway pros-Swing veterans, Stage Managers, Casting Directors, Choreographers, and Directors-including Rob Ashford, Susan Stroman, Jerry Mitchell, Larry Fuller, Tony Stevens, Beverley Randolph, and Frank DiLella.
Broadway Swings is the ideal guide for anyone considering a career in this most unique of positions, or anyone curious about what really goes on, behind-the- scenes, in a long-running show.

Review Quotes

"As this text so wonderfully captures, swings are mathematicians, artists, soloists, team members, team leaders, peacekeepers, and miracle-workers. What a gift to have their stories told! Future swings, take this gift and run with it!" --Andy Blankenbuehler, Choreographer

"A revelation! . . . This user-friendly guide explains everything you need to know to be a successful swing or cover on any stage, anywhere. It takes all of the confusion and intimidation out of the job and explains every responsibility in detail. A guaranteed gem!'" --Lyn Cramer, University of Oklahoma

"Swings are members of Broadway show ensembles, who cover multiple roles in a production as needed. These musical supermen and women are vital to the success of any musical -- though they're rarely given the credit center stage. [Broadway Swings] pulls these versatile vamps out into the spotlight, examining the ins and outs of their everyday lives -- and exactly what it takes to keep a long-running show going. Over 100 Broadway veterans swings, stage managers, casting directors, choreographers and directors offer their insights into the process, alongside authors Eyer and Smith, who are performers themselves. A must-read for anyone considering a career in the theater, [Broadway Swings] is an eye-opener that will teach any old theater fan new tricks." -NBC's "Broadway Bookshelf: 10 Books Perfect for Any Theater Fan"

About the Author

J. Austin Eyer is an Assistant Professor of Theatre at The Pennsylvania State University. He also serves as the Head of Musical Theatre for Musiktheater Bavaria in Germany. He has performed on Broadway in Evita, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Billy Elliot, The Little Mermaid, Curtains and The Secret Garden

Lyndy Franklin Smith is an Instructor in the Department of Theatre and Dance at University of Kentucky, Artistic Director of The Lexington Theatre Company, and a professional Director/Choreographer. She performed on Broadway in A Chorus Line and The Little Mermaid; Tours of Fosse and White Christmas and NYC's Radio City Christmas Spectacular.