In stage productions, used for casting (3)
I believe the answer is:
rod
'for casting' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe there's a link between them I don't understand?
'in stage productions' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'ROD' is hidden in the letters of 'stage productions'.
'used' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for rod that I've seen before include "Fishing implement" , "Straight, slender stick" , "Instrument of punishment" , "Little boy" , "Imperial measure" .)