waiting in the wings

The phrase "waiting in the wings" typically means being ready or prepared for a particular opportunity or situation, but not currently involved or taking an active role. It comes from the world of theater, where actors who are not currently on stage but are waiting for their turn to perform are said to be waiting in the wings, which are the offstage areas to the side of the stage. The phrase is often used metaphorically to describe someone who is waiting for their chance to take action or assume a role.