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Wilmington Drama League Casting Policy
    Welcome to this audition for one of the Drama League's play productions. We are delighted to have you here and whether you are cast in this play or not, we hope the experience will be interesting, instructive and -- most of all -- fun. If you are nervous, remember that everyone else is too, no matter how cool and experienced they may appear to be.

A word or two about WDL casting policy may be in order:

1. All roles are open to any person who wishes to audition at the regularly scheduled time and place. Special auditions may be held at the discretion of the play director.

2. Every person who auditions will be required to fill out a form, which provides basic information for the Casting Committee.

3. Every person who auditions will be given the opportunity to read at least once for each part they desire. Additional readings for the same or other parts are at the discretion of the Director, within the constraints of time and fairness to others.

4. No individual may be offered a part prior to the conclusion of auditions. However, the Casting Committee is free to invite any person to audition. Such invitation does not constitute an offer of a part.

5. Casting is the sole responsibility of the director. The Casting Committee serves in an advisory capacity only.

6. If you accept a role at WDL, we encourage you to become a member of the League when rehearsals begin. A membership in the League entitles you to one ticket for each show and is one of the most inexpensive investments you can make for your own pleasure and creative fulfillment. If you are cast and you are also a member, offer your ticket to a friend, preferably someone who might be encouraged to join as a result of the experience. A free ticket is a nice gift to a friend, and it also has the potential for increasing membership.

And a few words of advice:

WHEN AUDITIONING.....
Be realistic -- but daring! If the part calls for a dwarf and you are six feet tall, your chances are probably slim. Nevertheless, if you think you can convince the play director that you are really a six-foot dwarf, by all means, read! Stranger things have happened.

Be original! Listen attentively when others read -- you might learn something. However, when it's your turn, don't imitate. Do your own thing. That elusive quality you've got may be just what the director's looking for.

AND FINALLY, IF THE NEWS IS BAD.....
Be philosophical! All right, you weren't cast. That doesn't mean you don't have talent. A director's lot is not a happy one. He or she must make difficult, sometimes painful choices, and believe it or not, sometimes the best actor doesn't get the part. Other considerations (size, age, voice quality, relations to other cast members, etc.) can be overriding factors. Sure, you're disappointed; after all, you were rejected, weren't you? And rejection is something none of us likes. But whether you're cast or not, auditioning is part of your theatrical craft. It is a learning experience. And just getting there and reading is valuable training. You should resolve to read for the next play -- and the next -- and the next. Another ddiirector may be reading along with you, and when his or her play comes up may remember you. It happens! So don't be discouraged. All right, you weren't cast. But you're better than you were before!

GOOD LUCK!
 

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