Modules

Over the 24 weeks of the course, you will learn the fundamentals of the entire cycle of casting. From how the role of the Casting Director evolved, to the basics of how a casting office works and the differing roles within it. You’ll be taught how a project is cast from start to finish: from reading scripts and pitching for a job, to finding, presenting and auditioning actors. You will learn how Casting Directors work effectively with producers and agents, navigate codes of conduct and keep a firm hold of schedules, budgets and deal negotiations, and will learn the basics of British PACT, Equity, Cinema and TV union agreements. From street casting to working with minors, down to how open call auditions are organised, no casting stone is left unturned. In addition, you will be given assistance finding a work experience placement within a Casting Director’s office. Module 1 – Casting Fundamentals The course begins with learning the background of the casting industry. You will then look at examples of casting in films and TV shows and compare and contrast them. We will explore how a casting office works and learn at what stage a Casting Director comes on board a project. You will discover the basics of casting a project from start to finish: reading scripts and pitching for a job, presenting actors, auditioning and closing deals. Getting to know script etiquette and distribution is key, as is knowing what a role breakdown vs a script breakdown is. You will consider how to challenge stereotypes and underwritten roles considerately and carefully. Module 2 – Actors Working with actors is a fundamental part of a career in casting. You’ll learn how Casting Directors build their knowledge of actors and their bodies of work and how to best present their ideas to Directors and Producers. You will develop your knowledge across the board, distinguishing lead actors to day players to supporting artists. Knowing who’s who is at the heart of casting. While it’s easy to be aware of bankable actors, spotting up and coming talent is one of the most important and rewarding parts of the job. How do you hone this skill? And what is the difference between an audition, a pre-audition, a self-tape, a screen test and a chemistry read? Module 3 – Union Agreements and Equal Opportunities This module takes a step by step look at the myriad unions, guilds and agreements you will need to be familiar with primarily PACT British Equity Film and TV Agreements. You will be armed with information on how to analyse the complex issues around portrayal on screen relating to fair representation of gender, ethnicity, disability and LGBTQ+, ensuring fair representation behind and in front of the camera. You will learn the format of a deal memo, Special Stipulations for contracts and how they may be applied and used in negotiation by agents and lawyers. Module 4 – Specialist Fields This module turns the spotlight on a range of different casting fields from casting for both subsidised and commercial theatre to fringe and regional venues, from street casting and open calls, to commercials and casting children with expert guest speakers who will share their experience, expertise and advice. Students will be given the opportunity to attend a theatre performance and to analyse and compare the differing demands of casting for the stage with those of other platforms. Module 5 – Benefits of Training Module 5 explores the skills needed to work effectively and efficiently and develop your role within a casting office. Before applying for any work as an assistant in casting you will need to be aware of how the Industry operates and have an understanding of the contribution of an assistant. Module 6 – Final Assessment The course culminates with a Final Assessment presentation where you will demonstrate your knowledge and understanding in a real world task which you will present to an industry panel.