How does a casting audition work?

The casting audition, also known as a casting interview is set up by your agent. Your agent will get word of the audition and the type of actor the director is looking for and will notify everyone with those specific characteristics.  When you arrive at the audition, it might feel a little like you’re in a parallel dimension or a house of mirrors as you’ll find that your competition will very closely resemble you in age, height, size and features.

Important

You might not need an agent to get into a casting audition. While an agent is ideal, if you aren’t there yet you might still get into one of these casting interviews. You may have previously attended an open casting call where you made an impression and as a result, the director invited you to an audition. Many casting auditions are well known in the industry regardless of whether you have an agent yet or not. If you don’t have an agent and hear of one, try sending the director your headshot and your resume. If you do have an agent and you hear of a casting audition you believe you’re a good fit for, ask your agent to get you in!

It’s not always a good idea to try to “crash” a casting audition, even if you feel you’re a good fit for the role. Of course it can be tempting though as these roles are generally more lucrative and your chances of hire are greater when you know the role is designed for your appearance and personality. Instead, it’s best to send the headshot or get your agent to get a green light. Some casting directors will allow someone who crashes to audition but sometimes they are annoyed. It’s a good idea to try to be invited although there are times when you have to take your chances. If you are taking your chances, you may make a negative first impression and in this business, there is no such thing as a second chance to make a first impression!