Pre-Casting ... Set In Concrete?

Casting Etiquette … and no, it’s not a new production, though come to think of written in the mould of “Last Tango in Little Grimley,” it could be very good. I digress.

May I pose a scenario for general discussion.

Let us imagine an audition is announced for a play, in which one would kill to win the lead role. You research the play, attend the reading and the subsequent audition, only to discover the director has somewhat obviously already cast the role, not only that, when you express an interest in another role, the director says, “I have somebody in mind, have you considered this part? It’s really good,” (the person in mind attended neither the reading, nor the audition).

Now, I have no problems with pre-casting and, I hasten to add, no problems with not being considered suitable for a particular role. BUT I think it incumbent upon a director to inform potential actors that a particular role is not available. I find it disconcertingly unethical and have mentally noted not to audition at that particular theatre again.

When I have my Director's hat on there will be times that I pre cast. If so then it is included in all material about the audition that a certain role or roles is/are not available. If I am "considering" someone for a role then they must attend the readthrough or audition. If I pre cast the actor must attend any read throughs and I would also prefer they be at the audition so that they can read with people they may be performing with. This is fair to all auditionees. I do often pre cast a central role. If I have a vision of the play (and as a director I should) this often includes the physical type and the particular skills I will need in the central role. I have heard it said that a good final production relies as much on casting as anything else, if this is true then surely pre casting must be a valid tool. Is that all there is? Well if that's all there is my friend, then let's keep dancing. www.tonymoore.id.au

When I have my Director's

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