Final answer:
The lead actor plays the principal role in a production. Casting for this role involves collaboration among the playwright, director, and producer. Understudies and standbys are also involved in the theatrical process to cover principal roles in cases of necessity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The actor playing the principal role in a production is known as the lead actor. This role often involves a significant amount of screen or stage time and is central to the storyline of the play or film. The process of casting these actors may involve key figures such as the playwright, director, and producer, who collaborate to select the right person for the role, sometimes with the assistance of a casting director. In theater, particularly in situations like Broadway productions, there is also a system of understudies and standbys who learn the lead roles to ensure the continuity of performances in case the lead actor is unable to perform.
A producer often takes part in the artistic decisions and might seek out famous actors who bring greater visibility and economic return to the show. Producers, along with directors and playwrights, make the final decisions on casting, often based on suggestions provided by the casting director after carefully considering which actors would best suit the roles required for the production. The casting directors set up auditions and also consider 'offer only' actors for the parts, who are established actors with strong resumes.
Once a show is running, if a replacement is needed for an actor, it is the stage manager who oversees bringing the new actor up to speed with the performance. Ensuring that the show goes on without any hitches, despite any changes in the cast, is a vital responsibility typically handled by the stage manager.