When it comes to storytelling, the term "cast of characters" refers to the individuals who play important roles in the plot. However, this phrase can sometimes become repetitive, especially if you use it repeatedly in your writing. Thankfully, there are several synonyms that you can use to describe the collection of individuals in a story, including crew, ensemble, lineup, cast, dramatis personae, players, and protagonists. Depending on the context of your writing, you can choose any of these alternatives to keep your narrative fresh and avoid redundancy. By utilizing these synonyms, you can better capture the attention of your audience and keep them engaged throughout your narrative.