põhiroll

Põhiroll is the leading or main character in Estonian theatre, film, and television. The term denotes the character around whom the story primarily centers. The actor playing the põhiroll typically has the most dialogue and screen or stage time, and the role often drives the narrative arc, revealing key motivations and changes over the course of the work.

Etymology and usage: The word is formed from põhi, meaning main or principal, and roll, meaning role. In credits, programs, and reviews, a põhiroll is distinguished from other roles such as supporting or minor parts. In productions with ensemble casts or multiple protagonists, there may be several leads described as põhirolls or co-leads, reflecting shared central importance.

Casting and performance: Assigning a põhiroll influences casting decisions, rehearsal focus, and promotional strategy. Performances in a põhiroll typically require a broad emotional range and sustained characterization, since the character's development is closely linked to the audience’s engagement with the work. The prominence of a põhiroll can vary by production; some works center tightly on a single lead, while others distribute narrative weight among several central characters.

See also: Estonian cinema, Estonian theatre, casting terms.