Audition Response

So I have recently made the plunge into community theatre having just graduated from school. Now there is one thing that I have noticed (in my limited auditioning experience) which differs greatly from school theatre, and I would like to learn more about why this is.

Audition Response Time.

I'm sure its something close to every actors heart (Yes? Maybe, No?), and it can be excruciating waiting for that 'call' (or email as is generally the case). Back in school we only had to wait an hour, a day (max) to know whether you had a role in the next play, but in community theatre, the wait has been much longer. For me, at least.

Now I am in no means complaining, as I am sure there is a valid reason - one which I would like to know. I am really interested in the goings ons and processes of theatre, and I'm sure this is just the first of many things I am to learn on my journey into theatre-land.

So basically my question is: What is the process that directors go through after auditions, when they are casting? And what decisions do they have to make which make it such a difficult process? AND why is this different to when a school play is cast?

Cheers, TaylorM