How Casting Works

The casting process will be different for every theatre company, but some things may be similar no matter where you go. This information is specifically how casting works at BYT.

Casting is an extremely difficult process with a variety of factors.

An actor's skills and abilities are always considered, but are not the only or even most important factors. Though talent is considered, it is only one factor. Ultimately, the goal is to put on a good show.
For certain characters, a physical characteristic like height, may matter. The importance of this varies from character to character, but can still be a consideration.
The synergy that certain actors have with their fellow actors is also a consideration. There is not just one character in the show, so actors must be able to compliment the other actors on stage. A successful show is a team effort not just an individual's accomplishment.
The availability of an actor to attend rehearsals and their reliability is also a major factor. Theatre is a huge time commitment and some characters require more practices than others. If an actor cannot commit to the requirements then they can not be considered for certain roles.
The attitude of an actor matters as well. If you have done shows with BYT in the past, we have gotten to know you and your personality. Some actors may not be considered for certain roles if they have shown they do not have a willingness to learn, cooperate, and lead. Actors who have shown these characteristics, however, may be considered for these roles because of their hard work and commitment. This does not mean that new actors are valued less than the BYT veterans, but is a factor when casting.
At BYT, we also aim to be an educational facility as well as put on high quality productions. When casting, sometimes actors may get roles that we believe will challenge their abilities and make them a better actor.

It is always disappointing to not get the role you wanted, but it is important that parents react positively to every casting. Young actors should understand the importance of every role no matter how "big" or "small". Every single role is important to tell a story.

Casting FAQ

Why didn't my child get the lead? There can be a variety of factors that result in certain actors not getting the lead roles. First of all, there are only so many parts and we can't have every single actor be a lead - it would not be a good show. Secondly, depending on the rest of the cast, it may not have been the best fit for your child at this time. Lastly, your child simply may not have been ready for the role. Always remember that, like any skill, acting - along with singing and dancing - needs to have training and practice to enhance their abilities.

Why did a different child get the part when I believed my child deserved it more? Unfortunately, from an outsider's perspective, the casting decision may seem wrong or not what you might have expected. Please remember that the casting team is extremely experienced and knowledgeable. They take a considerable amount of time to make sure everyone is cast in a role that is most optimal. Every decision is based on the factors listed above, but unfortunately disappointments are bound to happen.

My child is devastated because they didn't get the role they wanted, what do I do? It is important that you keep a positive attitude when your child didn't get the role they wanted. We understand that is common to think that there are "small" roles and "big" roles, but that discounts the hard work of all the actors on stage. We need to remind our young actors that their worth in the show is not measured by the size of their role, but their own hard work and portrayal of their character. The only "small" roles are the ones that actors put no work into. Everyone shines on stage regardless of their part and shows wouldn't be able to succeed without their supporting casts.

My child was cast in the ensemble, does this mean they are unimportant and don't have to work as hard? Every single role in theatre is important. Think of some of your favorite musicals and imagine them without the supporting characters. Each role contributes an important part of the story and the ensemble are the characters who can set the tone and add depth to scenes. Without the ensemble, many scenes and musical numbers would feel empty. The effort from the ensemble can completely make or break a scene.

We've been a part of BYT shows for awhile, why hasn't my child gotten the lead yet? BYT is educational so it is true that our young actors improve greatly with every show they do. However, we can only teach so much and the actor has to put in the effort as well. Voice, acting, and dance lessons are highly recommended.