Auditions for Pantomime
This policy is in place to make the auditioning process as fair as possible.

  1. The auditioning panel shall consist of at least three people; the Director, the Musical Director and Choreographer for the production but can also include others. The maximum number of panel members is five people at the discretion of the Director. There should always ideally be an odd number. Should any panel members have a close family member audition for the production, they may not be present in the audition room or be involved with any discussions regarding the actor or vote on any of the roles that they may be suitable for ‐ note that this excludes the Director.
  2. The onstage roles subject to audition, will be at the discretion of the production team. Those wishing to be considered for a leading character may audition for up to two roles only. It is recommended when auditioning for two roles, that they should be very different characters such as a pantomime hero or villain.
  3. A description of the character will always be available to help the actor with their delivery and presentation of the scene. An indication of the approximate size of the role and whether suitable for an adult or juvenile will also be given.
  4. A person who wishes to audition but cannot attend the chosen audition date, may, only at the discretion of the panel, audition at another time.
  5. Those auditioning for a speaking, and or a solely acting role will usually be given an extract from the chosen script to be presented individually before the panel. There may also be instances when the Director may conduct a workshop audition observed by the panel
  6. For every individual audition, there will be the same person available to represent any others characters for the actor to perform the chosen audition scene with. This person may not be a close family member of the person auditioning. A member of the audition panel may be selected to do this and still partake in casting discussions.
  7. If the role requires singing and or dancing, this will also be checked as part of the audition.
  8. Audition scenes and songs, along with any backing tracks or sheet music, will be available prior to the auditions to provide the performers with sufficient time to practise them. It is desirable that the actors learn them so that they can perform them fully in character. Please note that any of the audition scripts or songs, may not be included in the final production.
  9. Casting will based upon the production team's vision of the show; the panel's assessment of the actor's suitablity for the said role and be in line with the group's constitution.
  10. With the consent of the Chair, the Director shall have the right to cast outside of auditions in exceptional circumstances.
  11. The performance dates and rehearsal dates will be known at the time of the auditions and those taking part must be available for all performances and most rehearsals. Performers are expected to complete an honest availability sheet, indicating when they will be unavailable to attend rehearsals. Casting will generally include those who have good availability, and or, a proven record of commitment to rehearsals.
  12. The decision of the audition panel is final and no explanation of their reasons for choice of cast need be given. However, the panel may give constructive feed-back to those who request it.
  13. Those who have auditioned will be notified of the outcome as soon as possible after the audition. Those not given main roles may, where possible, be offered a role in the ensemble.
  14. When appropriate for the chosen production and at the discretion of the production team, cast members may not be required to audition for a non-speaking role in the ensemble. This information shall be provided prior the auditions with the character descriptions.
  15. Auditions shall take place preceding the start of production rehearsals.

Reviewed and revised and ratifies 9th. June 2010.