Casting (performing arts)

In the performing arts, casting is a vital pre-production process for selecting a cast of actors, dancers, singers, and other talent for a live or recorded performance. The casting process typically involves a series of auditions before a casting panel, composed of individuals such as the producer, director, and choreographer. The early stages of casting often involve performers presenting previously prepared audition pieces; such as short monologues or songs. Later stages may involve groups or pairs of potential performers attempting material from the work under consideration in various combinations; the casting panel considers both the talent of the individual actors and the chemistry of their combination.

Depending on the prestige of the role, casting calls may go out to the public at large (typical for community theatre), to professional and semi-professional local actors (for supporting roles in theatre and film) or to specifically selected actors (for leading roles, especially in films).

The industry is contentious, with frequent discontent arising from charges of nepotism, stereotyping, and bigotry.

See also

• Ethnic stereotypes in popular culture
• Film
• Opera
• Stock character
• Theatre
• Typecasting (acting)