The purpose of a cast recording is to capture a stage performance as it was experienced by the audience. The phrase "original cast recording" (OCR) means that the performers are from the show's original cast. A cast recording can also be further identified by geographic location or venue. For example, a recording featuring the original Broadway or Toronto cast.

Cast recordings are typically recorded in a studio rather than the live event. The music and lyrics should be very close to what the audience experienced in the theater. Of course, studio recordings do not contain any sounds from the audience. The goal is to create an experience for the listener which closely approximates what the attendee heard at the live performance. Original cast recordings are often added when a play is brought back to the stage for a revival. Popular shows like "Fiddler on the Roof" or "Les Mis" may have a half-dozen "original cast albums" based on a Broadway revival or touring company. For this reason, it's always a good idea to check the year, venue, geographic location, and featured performers when you plan your purchase of an original cast recording.