Does the lead of a musical perform on matinees?

Question

I wanted to go see Legally Blonde on Broadway on a Wednesday at 2:00...is it most probable that the lead will play Elle or will the understudy be playing since it is a matinee in the middle of the week? What are the most probable days that the Bailey Hanks will be playing Elle?

Answer 1

Sometimes it's specifically stated in the program that a different actor plays the role at certain performances. This is quite rare, and usually happens with child actors or roles that are exceptionally demanding or operatic, like Christine in Phantom of the Opera. However, in the vast majority of shows on Broadway, the listed actor will play every show except in cases of illness or emergency. It's very unlikely that the understudy would go on for Bailey, especially in the first few weeks of her contract. (Although the understudy is Autumn from the show, so if you liked her, you might actually want to see her perform.)  

Answer 2

~The lead, as well as the rest of the cast, perform every show whether it's an evening or matinee.  The only time a cast member is substituted by an understudy is when the performer is too sick to perform or has sustained an injury.