Casting Directors organize and facilitate the casting of actors for all the roles in a film. This involves working closely with the director and producer to understand their requirements, and suggesting ideal artists for each role, as well as arranging and conducting interviews and auditions. Once the parts are cast, the Casting Director negotiates fees and contracts for the actors, and acts as a liaison between the director, the actors and their agents.
According to the US Department of Labor, between 2010 and 2022, careers in this field are projected to grow 10 percent, which is faster than average for all occupations.
Although formal education is not necessary, to fully understand the industry, a casting director will want to earn a degree in fine art, film, and theater, or business.
Address: 112 McVey Hall Lexington, KY
Website: https://www.uky.edu/
Information on the Major: https://finearts.uky.edu/
Address: 2301 S. 3rd St. Louisville KY 40208
Website: https://louisville.edu/
Information on the Major: https://catalog.louisville.edu/graduate/programs-study/master-fine-arts-theatre-arts/
Address: 1906 College Heights Blvd., Bowling Green, KY
Website: https://www.wku.edu/
Information on the Major: https://www.wku.edu/schoolofmedia/undergraduateprograms/film/film.php
excellent communication skills
ability to recognize talent
a good memory
excellent organizational skills
precise attention to detail
ability to take and give direction
knowledge of the requirements of the relevant health and safety legislation and procedures
Casting directors should have a strong foundation in the use of computer software used in filmmaking, such as CGI and animation, and camera operation, as well as any other technical aspects of cinematic creation.
-Bring movie and tv shows to life
-Provide opportunities to less known actors
-Can improve the chance of a tv show or movie becoming successful
-Very competitive field
-Requires lots of hours of sacrifice
-Stressful time management as they are constantly being told about deadlines
Work is usually full-time, but can also involve weekends and holidays when a production calls for it or a deadline must be met. Sometimes casting directors will travel to an actor's home to meet about a role in an upcoming film, show, or theater production, or carry-out auditions at a local or national theater.
Career Researched By: Chloe Meyer