Replacements rehearse before the put in. The put in is one of the last things to happen before they hit the stage. 2 weeks seems to be about the norm for rehearsal as a replacement. I do not know howevver if that is actually standard.
They will not announce until all contracts have been signed.
If we're not having fun, then why are we doing it?
These are DISCUSSION boards, not mutual admiration boards. Discussion only occurs when we are willing to hear what others are thinking, regardless of whether it is alignment to our own thoughts.