I've sat on both sides of the casting table—as a performer auditioning for roles and as an Associate Casting Director evaluating hundreds of actors. This unique perspective has given me insider knowledge about what casting directors are really looking for when you walk into that room. Let me share what I've learned.
1. Preparation is Everything
The first thing we notice is whether you're prepared. This means knowing your sides cold—not just memorized, but truly internalized. You should be able to perform the material without thinking about the words, which frees you to focus on your performance and the casting director.
Make smart choices about your character. What's their motivation? What do they want in this scene? What's their relationship to the other character? These questions should be answered before you walk in. Casting directors can tell the difference between an actor who's done their homework and one who's just reading the lines.
2. Confidence Without Arrogance
There's a fine line between confidence and arrogance, and casting directors can spot the difference immediately. Confidence means you believe in yourself and your work. Arrogance means you think you're better than everyone else in the room.
Walk in with your head up, make eye contact, and treat the casting director with respect. They're not your enemy—they're hoping you're going to be amazing. They want to cast you. Make it easy for them.
3. Listen and React
One of the biggest mistakes actors make is being so focused on their own performance that they forget to listen to the casting director or reader. The best auditions are conversations, not monologues.
Listen to what the casting director says. React to what they're saying. If they give you direction, take it and show them how you can adjust. This demonstrates flexibility, professionalism, and the ability to take direction—all things directors care about.
4. Be Authentic, Not a Character
There's a difference between playing a character and being a character. Casting directors want to see you—your personality, your energy, your authenticity—filtered through the character you're playing.
Don't try to be someone you're not. Don't adopt a fake accent or personality. Bring your genuine self to the room. That's what makes you unique and memorable.
5. Manage Your Nerves
Nerves are normal. Everyone gets nervous. But the actors who book roles are the ones who can manage their nerves and deliver a strong performance despite them.
Take deep breaths. Remember that the casting director wants you to succeed. Focus on your preparation and your character, not on whether you're going to book the role. The irony is that the less you focus on booking it, the more likely you are to book it.
6. Don't Apologize
Never apologize for your performance or your choices. If you make a mistake, just keep going. If you're not happy with how you did a line, don't say so. The casting director might not have even noticed.
Apologizing undermines your confidence and makes the casting director doubt your performance. Own what you do, even if you think it wasn't perfect.
7. Understand the Business
Casting is a business. The casting director's job is to find the right actor for the role in the most efficient way possible. They're not trying to make your life difficult. They're trying to solve a problem.
Understand that you might not be right for every role, and that's okay. It doesn't mean you're not a good actor. It just means you're not right for that particular role. The more you can separate your self-worth from the outcome of auditions, the better you'll perform.
8. Follow Up Professionally
After your audition, send a professional thank-you note to the casting director. Keep it brief and genuine. This shows professionalism and gratitude, and it keeps you on their radar for future roles.
But don't be pushy or needy. One thank-you note is enough. If they want to see you again, they'll reach out.