The Audition Process for Leading Roles on Broadway

The number of actors auditioning for a leading role on Broadway can vary widely depending on several factors. This article explores the diverse range of auditions and the selection process for both major and smaller roles.

Leading Roles: A Highly Competitive Process

For major roles in high-profile Broadway shows, the number of actors auditioning can be quite substantial. Typically, hundreds of actors may audition for a leading role during an open call or a more exclusive call. Open auditions often see a large number of hopefuls, while more exclusive calls are limited to a select group of actors. In general, leading roles can attract anywhere from dozens to over a hundred auditions.

Historical Insight: An Example from the 1960s

One personal example from the 1967 period, I auditioned for a chorus role in a new musical titled "Henry Sweet Henry." I had previously worked with the composer and lyricist, Bob Merrill, and got the job. Despite the show's limited success, with the lead actors Don Ameche, Robin Wright, and Carol Bruce not needing to audition, it was different for the secondary leads. Actors like Louise Lasser, Alice Playten, and the Best Supporting Actress Tony Award winner had to audition for their parts.

The Poster-Audition Process

For the musical "Dear Evan Hanson," a student managed to make it through two callbacks for replacement roles after an open call with about 500 other actors. This highlights the competitive nature of auditions, especially during the poster period when the production is first advertised to the public.

National Search vs. Local Search

In some cases, productions may conduct a country-wide search or an open call. For example, the musical "Once On This Island" had casting directors see numerous actors, but only a few were ultimately seen by the directors. This process is highly dependent on the production's goals: if they do not have a clear vision but want to generate excitement, or if they have a clear vision and want to cull the field.

Small Roles and Theatre Settings

For smaller roles such as ensemble, supporting, or dance roles, the number of actors auditioning is typically much higher. In a regional theatre setting, for instance, we would never see less than 100 people for any show and often close to 300 for a big musical. This substantial number is even more significant in Broadway theatres which offer more famous and well-paying roles.

The In-Depth Casting Process

The audition process is multifaceted. Actors initially audition for agents who then select a few actors to audition for casting directors. The casting directors have assistants who see actors and pass on the best ones to the casting directors who then pass on their favorites. Before a director is set on an actor, she may have attended 2-5 auditions that led her to that point, some specific to the show and others to be seen by the people who decide who is seen for the show.

Conclusion

The audition process for leading roles on Broadway is marked by competition and intensity. From the initial poster calls and open auditions to the more exclusive calls, the journey to the leading role is a testament to the actors' talent, dedication, and the production's distinct vision. Whether it's a star vehicle or a supporting role, the process remains challenging but rewarding for those who make it through.