Why is there so much precasting?

Yes it goes on, and in a few cases, it can be looked at as particularly selfish. But why does it go on?Argument FOR pre-casting;1. Covering parts in case too few turn up to Audition.2. Politics; Director had someone in mind for part but has to go thorough the ropes of Auditioning. This happens in Government Employment circles. Someone is emplyed as they NEED someone urgently, but they HAVE TO ADVERTISE THE POSITION within 18 MONTHS. It's standard policy.3. Simplifies the audition process for the director.4. Some people can't always turn up at the Audition times, but director still feels obliged to try them out.5. Director knows their bound to turn up anyway (they always do - e.g. regular club member)Argument Against;1. People feeling Hard Done by.2. If badly cast, reflects even worse on Director who COULD develop an unsavory reputation.3. Could also refelct badly on the Club supporting the show.4. FAVOURITISM, which is where your particluar Gripe lies (I think) Phil.(Anyone want to add to the list?)You have mentioned a particular example where a relative to the director was cast and (in your opinion) was not the right choice. This COULD be seen as a very malicious thing to do. It could also be quite innocent.Things like this happen, and not just in theatre, people are 'pre-cast' for employment as well (and I don't mean just government positions). As they say, it's not What you know (necessarily) but WHO you know. There's is very little you can do about but but complain and cause a few ripples which will disrupt things for a short while before everything returns to normal.Accept that this happens, dislike that fact that it does but don't dwell on it. I'd like to think that little hurdles like this can only make me (or anyone else) a stonger, more determined person.You're obviously a passionate person, particularly with theatre. Stand by you passion and let that guide you. Don't get distracted by other's "faillings".Still, your complaint is a valid one. Maybe one day, when we can make something more than Ripples, people like us can make a difference. 'Till then, keep smilling and Don't Let the Bastards Get You Down.Jeff.