Standby

Not to be confused with Understudy and Swing.

A Standby is a non-performing member of the cast who learns the lines and blocking of certain lead roles in a show and is able to assume the role when needed. Often, a show will have only two Standbys, one male and one female, who cover all lead roles. Traditionally, Standbys are not required to actually report to the theatre on show nights, but must be nearby and must be able to be contacted immediately by cell phone (the exact requirements for Standbys vary greatly from show to show). When a lead actor is out, the Standby has priority over the Understudy to assume the role.

See also stand-by for the cue-calling variation.