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What Does a Casting Director Look For?
Qualities in an Audition
Character
The essence of the character is crucial to the casting director during auditions. They are looking for a complete understanding of the character’s motivations. What drives them? What makes them think and feel? Understanding what brings them happiness or sadness contributes significantly to a strong audition. It’s also beneficial if you have researched the character and their background, especially if there’s a book or film based on them.
Emotion
Emotion plays a vital role in the audition process. Demonstrating depth and nuance is essential. However, avoiding overacting is important, as this can detract from your performance. Instead, draw on natural emotions you have experienced in your own life, as this authenticity is often very convincing to casting directors and can help you get shortlisted.
Screen Presence
Your personality should shine through. Be compelling and charismatic, focusing on capturing the audience’s attention.
Delivery
When delivering your lines, pay attention to various elements such as pacing, tone, modulation, inflection, and most importantly, timing. The dialogue needs to feel fresh, spontaneous, and natural, not rehearsed or forced.