be waiting in the wings

To be ready and available to help or replace someone. Actors traditionally wait in the wings of the theater before stepping on stage. My assistant is waiting in the wings to take my job once I retire. We'll be waiting in the wings, so just signal us if you need anything during your speech.

COMMON If someone is waiting in the wings, they are waiting for an opportunity to take action, especially to take over another person's job. The last time Joe Clark stepped down as leader, Brian Mulroney was waiting in the wings. He was one of a number of young, up-and-coming American players who were waiting in the wings for the next Major Championship. Compare with in the wings. Note: In a theatre, the wings are the hidden areas to the left and right of a stage, where the actors wait before going on to the stage.