Understudy

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In theater, an understudy is a performer who learns the lines and blocking/choreography of a leading actor or actress in a play. Should the lead 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. According to broadwayworld.com "A standby is not in the show and has first priority when the lead is sick. The understudy is usually an ensemble member who performs if the standby is sick or on vacation."

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.

another

While understudies do serve a very useful purpose, it is interesting to note that they are not always part of a performance. The Actors' Equity Association, a labor union representing many actors and stage managers in the United States, does not contractually obligate many shows to hire understudies. Since there is no guarantee an understudy will even be necessary, some producers of smaller shows opt to simply go without understudies in an effort to save money on production costs. In the event a crucial actor or actress is unable to play a part, the show is simply canceled or rescheduled for a later date.