Casting Policy

Drama Guild productions are educational experiences designed to support student growth while creating strong, cohesive performances. Casting decisions are made thoughtfully and are based on the needs of each individual production. We strive to approach casting with care, fairness, and respect for every performer, and we encourage all students to audition without assumptions about how roles will be assigned.

Casting decisions are based on a combination of factors, including performance at auditions, vocal and acting skills, chemistry, availability, and what best serves the overall production.

All roles onstage and offstage are essential to the success of the show.

General Casting Principles

Demonstrated dedication, preparation, reliability, and fit for the role are the primary considerations.

Seniority and prior participation may be considered, but they are not the primary determining factors. Casting is not a reward system and is not based on seniority, popularity, or past roles.

Not all roles are appropriate for every performer, and role size may vary from show to show.

Equity & Accessibility

Drama Guild is committed to equitable access and inclusive participation.

Students with disabilities or specific learning needs are encouraged to audition and participate fully. Reasonable accommodations will be provided when appropriate. Accommodations cannot alter the essential requirements of a role when those requirements are necessary for the clarity and success of the production.

Role Categories & Evaluation Criteria

Lead & Highly Featured Roles: Lead and highly featured roles carry significant responsibility within a production and require a high level of independence and consistency. Evaluation criteria may include:

• Vocal clarity and projection

• Singing ability, pitch accuracy, and vocal range (for musicals)

• Ability to respond consistently to verbal, musical, and visual cues

• Memorization and retention of lines, lyrics, blocking, and choreography

• Emotional storytelling and character development

• Stamina, reliability, and rehearsal readiness

Chorus / Ensemble Roles: Chorus and ensemble members contribute significantly to the world, energy, and storytelling of the show. Evaluation criteria may include:

• Ability to collaborate and work as part of a group

• Stage presence, focus, and engagement

• Vocal participation and blending (for musicals)

• Accuracy with blocking and movement

• Responsiveness to direction

Non-Singing / Physical Performance Roles: Some productions include roles that emphasize physical storytelling over spoken dialogue or singing. For these roles, evaluation criteria may include:

• Physical expression, movement quality, and body awareness

• Ability to communicate character through movement and gesture

• Comfort with choreography, stylized movement, or puppetry

• Focus, spatial awareness, and consistency

All Roles require consistent rehearsal attendance and effort.

Casting decisions are final and are made with the overall success of the production in mind.