We spend a lot of time choosing casts. Every member of the company has an individual file and every term their director/workshop leader writes a detailed appraisal of their work and attendance. There is also a space for recommendations for future terms and both Core Staff go through these files together and note the suggestions.

Everyone is encouraged to audition and contracts/information sheets are given out well in advance of auditions with full details and dates, to ensure members can make an informed decision. The auditions happen at the end of the term before so anyone cast can read the script and prepare. Alternative audition dates can be arranged if necessary. We ask members to prepare 4-6 lines of any comic or serious character (depending on the play that term) and they present them in front of tutors and each other, with the opportunity to go again if they feel they have not done themselves justice.

When we allocate specific roles we break it down into thirds

1/3 will have had parts before so they can be important pace setters within the group, giving people a clear example to aspire to

1/3 will have had a small part and shown promise, or just been a great company member, reliable, interested, enthusiastic etc

1/3 will never have had a part before but for the reasons above will be given a real chance to show us what they can do.