Choosing an actor for a role is not a perfect science — but it can be magic

By Jessica Sage

Hi Jessica,

How do you choose between two actors — both of whom offer good possibilities — for a particular role?

Thanks.

— Abbey N.

Good question, Abbey. As you can imagine, casting actors for a play is a challenging process from auditions through final decisions. It’s one of the key parts of launching a successful production and season, ranking alongside selecting the season’s lineup and identifying directors for the chosen productions. All of these crucial decisions are made long before rehearsals begin.

As I’ve said before, we are blessed with an incredibly gifted pool of actors to choose from at the Richard L. Hay Center at Rogue Theater Company (RTC). Often, I have specific actors in mind for certain roles when planning a season. Our actors are chosen not just by me, but by a small group of theater-experienced RTC team members. Having multiple voices with a range of experiences making casting decisions opens the process to a variety of perspectives, ensuring we find the best fit for a particular role, the cohesiveness of the cast, and our vision of the play. This collaborative approach helps us make well-rounded decisions.

In the rare instance when we need to hold auditions, here is what we’re looking for from an actor:

• Good actors come prepared, familiar with the material, and aware of the company’s style.
• Actors make choices in preparation for an audition, cultivating a point of view about the character and the play as envisioned by the playwright.
• Actors consider what they can add to the role that will enhance the character, the story, and the playwright’s intent.

When we have to choose between two promising actors, we take into consideration all of the aforementioned points and turn them into questions we ask ourselves:

• Which actor’s point of view for this character best fits our vision for the role?
• Which actor’s interpretation enhances the play?
• Which actor brings something unique to the role?
• Which actor will have the best chemistry with actor/s already cast?

Ultimately, the final choice between two actors is a subjective decision. Based on the melding of various personalities, skills, and desired outcomes, it’s not a perfect science. But when it’s right, it can result in a production that’s pure magic.

Theater lovers, what would you like to know about theater, acting, stagecraft, etc.? Send your questions to [email protected]. In the meantime, bring up the houselights, and let’s have some fun!

Jessica Sage is artistic director of the Richard L. Hay Center at Rogue Theater Company. The current production features Dan Donohue and Ray Porter in Marie Jones’s “Stones in His Pockets,” performing at Grizzly Peak Winery at 1 p.m. through Aug. 4. Get tickets and information at roguetheatercompany.com.