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.

Sometimes shows are created around the actor(s) and thank god for that. If it weren't for these passionate people getting out there and getting their own thing started then we would have much less going on.

On the same front, Pre-casting does also serve a useful function for the director or company driven show. Having a well-known personality or two can be a big draw card for any show.

Precasting can also avoir the rather daunting task of having to track down bit parts because not enough people showed up at the audition.

Precasting out of personal favour and without adequate aknowledgement is simply unethical. I personally am against pre-casting where-ever possible. I like to see new talent get a chance to get exposure and experience. Of course you want to ensure your leads have the ability to carry the show and the temptation to ask Jo Blogs who you know would be able to do it is very real.

I side with Logos. Pre-casting as a rule is generally unfair yet it serves a purpose. Precasting without proper aknowledgement (ie telling other hopefuls of the circumstances) is quite unethical. At least let them know the truth.

I also agree with Logos on the idea of having precast actors availling themselves at auditions and read-throughs. A show is a team effort and I (as a director) would find it very difficult wot work with a divided cast in any way.

I have worked on a production (as an actor) where the male lead was a professional precast performer. Not only was he treated differently, I also felt the director (whom I had worked with previously) treated the rest with less favour then he might have otherwise done. This is an example of pre-casting favouritism and I believe it can lead to a poorly constructed team and low moral. I like to believe that all on stage should be treated equally. Even the walk-ons. While the leads may carry to show, the walk-ons can add a rainbow of colours, even for just a second.

Absit invidia

Jeff Watkins
Perth based Actor/Performer
who can also sing and dance
Fight/Sword Choreographer
Virgin Director

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Best piece of advice Re Pre-casting I have ever had (and only recently) is;

"Sure, Pre-cast if you like. Just don't tell ANYONE."

Absit invidia

Jeff Watkins
Perth based Actor/Performer
who can also sing and dance
Fight/Sword Choreographer
Virgin Director

Home Page