A casting director (CD) is a professional who casts actors for various roles in film, television, commercials, and theater. To be considered for a role, you must first audition for the casting director. Auditioning can be very intimidating, especially when you don’t know what to expect.
To help you prepare, we’ve put together a list of questions to ask a casting director at your next audition. By asking thoughtful questions, you’ll not only get a better feel for the role you’re auditioning for but also build a rapport with the person who could potentially make or break your career.
76 Questions you can ask a casting director:
- What is the role you are casting for?
- What are the requirements for the role?
- What is the production schedule?
- What is the shooting location?
- What is the compensation?
- How many auditions will there be?
- When is the deadline for submissions?
- How will submissions be accepted (email, online form, etc.)?
- How will auditionees be notified of their status?
- If I am not selected for this role, can I be considered for future projects?
- What type of experience do you have?
- What type of productions have you worked on?
- What is your process for casting a project?
- How do you find actors for a project?
- How do you decide which actors are right for a role?
- How do you work with actors to help them prepare for an audition or role?
- What are your thoughts on self-taping auditions?
- How do you feel about actors using personal connections to get an audition or meeting?
- What are the most important qualities you look for in an actor?
- What are some red flags that would make you not want to work with an actor?
- How do you prefer to communicate with actors?
- How often do you give feedback to actors during the audition process?
- Do you have any tips on how to stand out in an audition?
- How should an actor dress for an audition or meeting?
- What are your thoughts on headshots and resumes?
- Do you have any advice on how to create a good reel?
- What are your thoughts on social media for actors?
- What should an actor do if they don’t get cast in a role they really wanted?
- Do you have any advice on how to handle rejection in this industry?
- What are your thoughts on networking and building relationships in this industry?
- Do you hold auditions?
- If so, how do actors prepare for an audition?
- What do you look for in an audition?
- Do you give feedback to actors after an audition?
- How do you work with directors and producers to cast a project?
- What are some of the challenges you face when casting a project?
- How do you overcome those challenges?
- What are some common mistakes that actors make when auditioning?
- How can actors avoid making those mistakes?
- Do you have any advice for actors who are just starting out?
- Do you have any advice for actors who want to work on big-budget productions?
- What are some of the biggest challenges that casting directors face today?
- How do you see the role of casting directors changing in the future?
- How did you get started in casting?
- What is your process for casting a project?
- How do you find actors for a project?
- What are your thoughts on headshots and resumes?
- What are your thoughts on actors submitting for roles they are not right for?
- How do you work with actors during the audition process?
- What are your thoughts on callbacks?
- What are your thoughts on actor preparation?
- What are your thoughts on actor research?
- What are your thoughts on actor training?
- How do you handle conflicts that may arise during the casting process?
- What are your thoughts on collaboration during the casting process?
- What are your thoughts on networking within the industry?
- Do you have any advice for actors who are looking to get into casting?
- What was your introduction to the entertainment industry?
- What is a typical day like for you?
- How do you find talent for each project?
- What are some things you look for in an audition tape?
- How can actors stand out from the crowd?
- How important are headshots and resumes?
- Are there certain types of roles that are harder to cast than others?
- What happens when an actor is booked for a role?
- How do you prepare actors before they shoot a scene?
- Do you have any funny or interesting stories about your time in the entertainment industry?
- What is the age range you are looking for?
- Is this a paid gig or an unpaid internship?
- What is the time commitment required?
- How many scenes is the character in?
- Is the character speaking or non-speaking?
- What is the character’s arc over the course of the piece?
- Who else have you cast in this production?
- Do you have any specific notes or guidance for this audition?
- When do you anticipate making your final casting decisions?
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a casting director do?
A casting director is responsible for finding the best talent for a role in a film or show. They hold auditions and cast the best person for the role. They also work with the director and producers to create the character breakdowns, which are descriptions of the characters needed for the project.
What skills do casting directors need?
General skills that are needed for a casting director include good people skills, good communication skills, good organizational skills, good problem-solving skills, and good time management skills.
How do you stand out to casting directors?
First of all, make sure your headshot and resume are professional and up-to-date. Casting directors will often judge you based on your appearance, so make sure you look the part.
Also, be prepared to audition. Familiarize yourself with the material and prepare to do your best. And finally, stay positive and enthusiastic. The casting directors will appreciate your energy and passion for the arts.
What do casting directors look for in a self-tape?
Casting directors are looking for actors who are well-prepared and give great performances in their self-tape. They want to see that you are comfortable in front of the camera and that you have a good understanding of the role you are auditioning for. Casting directors also look for actors who are professional and take direction well.
Conclusion
Casting directors play an integral part in choosing who gets hired for acting gigs – so it’s important that you take the time to get to know them. By asking thoughtful questions during your next audition, you’ll give yourself a better chance at being considered for future roles, while also building relationships with industry professionals who can further your career down the line.
