The CBS Diversity Institute program each year holds auditions around the country in a bid to find actors of color for the network’s scripted programming. Fern Orenstein, who was recently promoted to senior vice president, casting, CBS Entertainment, oversees the selection process and talent showcases. In an interview, Backstage asked her how actors can submit and, if selected, what the program can do for their careers.
Backstage: How can actors submit to CBS’ diversity program?
Fern Orenstein: CBS network casting executives hold auditions in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, and other hotbeds for comedic talent. We tend to make our final casting decisions by late September, but are always looking ahead for future showcases. Agents and managers submit their clients and we also scout at comedy shows, on YouTube, and place casting calls/ads in the trades. By summer's end we have seen more than 3,000 auditions. Since its inception [a decade ago], 309 actors have appeared in the CBS Diversity Showcase. Alumni have gone out on 1,690 auditions and from those auditions, actors have landed 460 roles. Last season we signed holding deals with three standouts from the showcase and 16 alumni booked pilots.
How many performers are selected to participate?
We invite 20–23 actors to participate. Showcase performers are African American, Asian American, Latino, Native American, Pacific Islander, LGBT, actors with physical disabilities, and veterans.
What does the program entail?
It’s designed to introduce diverse talent to agents, managers, casting directors, and entertainment executives. Once the cast is selected, actors go through a three-and-a-half-month-long, rigorous rehearsal process. More than 600 sketches written by actors and sketch comedy writers are performed during rehearsals. From there, 20–22 of the best sketches make it into the showcase. In January the show is performed in front of four sold-out audiences at the El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood, Calif.
Is it unique among the broadcast networks? What happens after you 'graduate' from the program?
Each network puts on an annual diversity showcase; however, CBS’ showcase is considered the gold standard in the industry. We pride ourselves on presenting only original comedic material (ranging from sketches and taped segments to musical parodies and dance numbers). We tend push the envelope on content, leaving audience members pleasantly surprised and wanting more. The material we present on stage smartly communicates the importance of diversity and inclusion in our industry.
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