Note: These notes reflect how I approach the audition process. It may not be universal protocol, but has been consistent for all shows I have worked on.
A couple people have asked me why I didn’t cast certain individuals in different roles. This might be a good time to explain the casting process to eliminate some confusion. It’s important to note that as MD (music director) I do not directly cast parts, I only make recommendations for casting.
Directors are the ones that cast roles. Directors have the vision for a show and all other personnel work to make that vision a reality. When I work on a show as MD (music director), everything I do is intended to be approved by the director before I do it. My entire focus is to bring what I see needs to be done with music in so far as it aligns with the Director’s vision.
During the audition process my job (as music director) is to field candidates that have the technical ability to perform each individual role. I give my list of role possibilities to the director. This is the list the Director has to choose from for casting certain roles. The ultimate decision is up to the Director. Often the Director will have specific questions about some people on the list or ask me to look more closely at additional auditioners that are not on my lists.
A Director is in no way obliged to work only from my lists – but in a good working relationship it is hoped that the Director will take considerations from the MD with heavy weight.
Before auditions I chart out the range of each role and have a feel for the style needed for each part. During auditions I am checking projection, timbre (tone quality) and range to field for different parts. Often I will ask auditioners to sing additional bits to check ranges needed for a specific part.
My considerations in making these lists is only musical. The Director is the one who has the vision as to what chemistry will work best for each part. Often the casting of one part will be co-dependent on the casting of another if the characters interact as a pair.
The reason I am posting this is that I have recently seen a few people give up tremendous opportunities because of what I think is their inaccurate perception of the casting process. Not being cast for a specific role is not a reflection on an individual’s ability, it is just a reflection of that particular audition for that particular role at that time and how those elements fit into the Director’s overall vision. Please read that last sentence again, it’s important to understand.
Although I would like to, it does not seem proper for me to approach these individuals and have them be privy to the entire selection process – which is gruelling for all directors.
My one point I want to relay in this post is this: Throw your hat in the ring as much as you can and with your best work at all times. Do not give in to thoughts that are negative or make you question your drive and talents. Do not take things personal and know that all of us want you to do your best.
I hope this message reaches the right ears, and that others in various productions can extract some inspiration and guidance from this.