To study, as another actor's part, in order to be his substitute in an emergency; to study another actor's part.
One who studies another's part with a view to assuming it in an emergency.
A performer who learns a part in a play in order to be able to take over at a moments notice if the principal is for any reason unable to perform. Talented newcomers would often be made understudy to established stars so that they might learn from studying their performances.
an actor able to replace a regular performer when required
be an understudy or alternate for a role
an actor in the show who learns another role and can play it when the regular performer is out
An actor playing a small part in a production or, in the professional theatre, often an Assistant Stage Manager, who has learned and rehearsed the part of one of the leading actors to take over from him/her in the event of illness etc.
A performer hired to do a role only if the featured player is unable to perform; used primarily in live theatre.
an actor who has memorized all the lines and action of an actor in a play, so that if the original actor falls ill or cannot perform, there is someone prepared to take his or her place at a moment's notice.
An actor employed to be a replacement in case of indisposition of the actors who play principal characters in a play. The understudies will learn and rehearse their appointed role and be available to step in if required. Depending on the number of characters in a play, there will usually be one understudy per principal character.
Someone who has a small role in a show and also can cover for one or more other (usually larger) roles.
An understudy is a theatrical term for someone who learns the lines and blocking/choreography of a leading actor or actress in a theatrical play. Should the lead actor or actress be unable to appear on stage because of illness or accident, 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.