You’ve probably seen the “CSA” designation next to top casting directors’ names and bios, but what do those three letters really mean? Here are nine facts about the Casting Society of America, an esteemed (and exclusive) community of casting directors and associates.
1. There's a long history behind the name CSA
Casting Society (CSA) was founded in February 1982. Originally called the American Society of Casting Directors, over the years, the name evolved into Casting Society of America. In 2022, Casting Society dropped the “of America” to reflect the expansion of their global membership. They still use the acronym “CSA” as a trusted and well-known moniker used by casting professionals across the entertainment spectrum.
2. Joining the Casting Society of America is a detailed process
Actors working towards SAG-AFTRA or Actors' Equity status can relate; admission to the CSA is a major honor, and society members spend years earning the title. In order to qualify, members must have worked for at least 100 weeks as casting directors within the last five years, have received casting credit without the title “assistant” or “associate,” have been recommended by two current CSA members (including letters of sponsorship), and have been voted in by the board of directors.
3. CSA is not a union
Unionized casting directors and associate casting directors are members of Teamster Locals 399 (Los Angeles) and 817 (N.Y.). CSA is a completely separate organization, focusing on the day-to-day professional lives of its members and the development of the casting industry as a whole.
4. Associate casting directors have a special classification
In 2008, the CSA’s board of directors approved the inclusion of associate casting directors for the first time in its 32-year history. Associate-level membership requires 75 weeks of experience as an associate casting director or casting producer within the last five years, the sponsorship of two CSA casting director members, and a vote by the board of directors. After 100 weeks of work as a casting director, an associate member may petition the board and be promoted to full CSA casting director status.
5. CSA’s Artios Awards honor excellence in casting
Head over to the Artios Awards section of CSA’s website and check out this year’s nominees; actors in New York, Los Angeles, and London have likely been in many of the honorees’ offices. Established in 1985, the annual awards are voted on by over 1,200 CSA members, and culminate in simultaneous ceremonies in New York, Los Angeles, and London. In addition to giving casting directors some much needed time in the spotlight, the awards recognize many categories that have yet to be included in other major awards shows.
6. CSA is (relatively) small
Though what began with only 39 members in 1983 has grown to nearly 1,200 strong globally, CSA is still tiny compared to many other creative collectives; the Directors Guild of America boasts nearly 20,000 members, Actors Equity over 51,000, and SAG-AFTRA over 160,000.
7. The organization is led by working casting directors
Destiny Lilly ("The Color Purple," "Only Murders in the Building") serves as CSA’s President, with Steven Tylor O’Connor ("13 Reasons Why," "Andi Mack") as Treasurer, Becca McCracken ("Somebody Somewhere," "Chicago P.D.") as Secretary and Elizabeth Berra ("Judas and the Black Messiah," "Pose") as Vice President of Governance.
8. CSA members are tech-savvy
Ever consider all of the digital tools and A/V equipment that go into a casting session? From online breakdowns to computerized scheduling to taping and uploading hundreds of auditions, casting professionals know their way around technology. CSA’s bi-annual Tech Fairs give members the chance to learn more about the platforms and gear they use every day.
9. CSA gives back to the community
CSA casting professionals are involved in numerous charities, including “Projects with Care” founded by CSA member Rosalie Joseph and "Broadway Flea Market." Performers can get involved as well with “Meals for Monologues,” a series of annual food drives that connect actors to casting professionals around the globe in exchange for a small food bank donation.
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