The Casting Handbook: For Film and Theatre Makers

Casting is a crucial creative element of any production - and yet the craft and skills needed to put together a successful and exciting cast are often overlooked. The Casting Handbook explains the casting process from beginning to end and covers everything producers and directors needs to know – as well as proving a fascinating and illuminating read for actors. The book explores:

• how to prepare a breakdown
• where to source actors
• how to prepare for a casting session
• how to make casting decisions
• how a cast is put together
• how deals are done
• ethics and the law, with special reference to casting children
• how a casting director contributes to the initial development of the script
• how the casting works from fringe theatre to Hollywood blockbusters

The Casting Handbook considers actors’, producers’, agents’ and directors’ relationship with a casting director, the day to day work that is casting, and how approaching it in a professional and informed manner can make the difference to the final product.

Including interviews with actors, agents, directors, casting directors and producers; case studies; exercises; and a fact file of useful templates and contacts, this book offers a thorough induction into the casting process, suitable for students and early career professionals in any media.