Why is there so much precasting?

You covered most of it jeff.The only thing I would add is - The Club, Venue, Cast & Crew are also subjected to to the reputation list. While the Director is ultimately responsible it is the whole banan-nanah bunch that it reflects on - unfortunetly is largly out of their control and possibly can only be rectified at this Director's next attempt.As for relatives, girlfiends & what ever?--{original credit goes to UNDERHILL@gacvax1.uwaterloo.ca}A famous director, having died of late, arrives at the Pearly Gates.He is greeted by St. Peter, who is delighted to see him.Peter: Great! We were waiting for you! God's producing a show,and we need a director.Director: No, no, no! I am done! I have been directing for thirtyyears and I want to rest. Eternally. Get someone else.Peter: But you don't understand. We have a script by Shakespeare.Dir: Sounds great... I'll see it opening night. I won't do it.Peter: Our set design is a collaborative effort between Leonardoda Vinci and M.C. Escher.Dir: Well, I really do need some time off. Maybe next time.Peter: It's a Bach score! C'mon, you've gotta do it!Dir: You tempt me, Peter...Peter: Here's the clincher. You've got an open budget, a techcrew known for getting stuff in early, and all the auditionmaterial you could dream of.Dir: Okay, okay. I'll do it. Where's the stage manager?Peter: Over there. But first, there is something I have to tellyou. You see, God's got a girlfriend, like, and she sings...So it is not only Community Theatre???????Joe McCabe"Show me a script that calls for no actors, dancers, musicians or artists; and, I will show you a Tech's DREAM!!!!" - anon