casting directors

16 Reasons You’re Stuck Doing Background Work

Casting director Paul Russell challenges actors to follow their goals and not get stuck in a rut doing background work.

How to Start Your Career as a Background Actor

Barbara McNamara, extras casting director for film and TV projects including “30 Rock” and “The Devil Wears Prada,” explains how background work can benefit aspiring actors.

How to Make a Casting Director's Day

To be an actor means to play in your own sandbox, on cue, under pressure, in front of a bunch of people who need to be reminded of their own, often misplaced sandboxes.

Looking for 'Super Fun' Actors

Tim Payne and Lisa Ystrom will cast ABC's "Super Fun," while Vickie Thomas assumes casting duties on Nick at Nite's "Instant Mom."

The Importance of Diversity and Discovery in the Audition Room

Casting director Liz Ortiz-Mackes on giving breaks to theater actors and casting for diversity in film, television, theater, and commercials in New York City.

ABC Family Looking for the Next Big Thing

Branman/Brander Casting will cast "Continuing Ed," "Phys Ed" will be cast by Alyson Silverberg and Geralyn Flood, and "Terminales" will be cast by Brett Greenstein and Collin Daniel.

Think Hollywood Is The Only Place For An Acting Career? Think Again.

You may have better success outside Los Angeles. Learn from Casting Director Lana Veenker about the advantages of a regional acting career.

'Perks of Being a Wallflower' Producers Share Their Casting Secrets

Lianne Halfon and Russell Smith, founders of production company Mr. Mudd, give their take on the casting process, auditions, and inspiration.

Casting Directors Awarded by the Talent Managers Association

David Rapaport, of David Rapaport Casting, was given a Heller Award for television casting by the TMA.

12 Questions to Determine Whether You’re Ready to Pursue Acting

Think you have the temperament and business sense to survive in the entertainment industry? Take Lana's self-evaluation quiz and see how you score.