Casting Philosophy

All Roles Are Important

Some have a significant number of lines, while others are smaller, but ALL are important and give you a chance to shine! If you don’t get the role you hoped for, that doesn’t mean we couldn’t use your help in other ways to make this a success!

Why Actors Are Chosen

The directors are looking for students who are willing to step outside of the box, put themselves out there, and own their roles - no matter the number of lines, appearances, costume decisions, etc. Ultimately, roles have to go to people who take direction well and will be enjoyable to work with. No behavior issues will be tolerated; their positive participation is vital to the success of the production. Students who exhibit a poor attitude, don’t take direction, or are disrespectful will be asked to step down and the role recast. The director’s job is not an easy one. No matter who is chosen, someone’s feelings will be hurt. There are many reasons why parts are chosen; please respect all casting decisions.

Gender Bending

In Shakespeare’s time, it wasn’t considered proper for women to be on the stage; men performed ALL roles. In our show, girls may be cast in male roles and vice versa. We will focus on the heart of the character and determine personality/ability matches rather than gender.

The Leads- it is important that the directors look at the following factors:

1. Is the actor able to play a large part with numerous lines to memorize?

2. Is the actor able to correctly and clearly pronounce the lines?

3. Is the actor able to attend all rehearsals?

4. What grades does the student have; will ineligibility be an issue?

5. Is the actor a good leader - someone who others look up to?

6. Is this a person who represents RHMS in the best manner possible?

Other Named Roles- Like Leads, these actors/actresses will be expected to:

1. Attend all required rehearsals.

2. Maintain academic grade standards to avoid ineligibility.

3. Be good leaders - someone who others look up to.

4. Represent RHMS with integrity, responsibility, and a great attitude.

Background/Minor Roles- These supporting roles include those with 0-10 lines. These actors/actresses need to be versatile, able to change characters from scene to scene, be respectful, and responsible (keeping track of costumes and cues!). They may appear multiple times as various characters.