Why so early?
Casting is most useful when it helps to work out what the show is. Catherine Willis joined Changing Ends early in development, to find a twelve-year-old who could play the young Alan Carr. Oliver Savell was chosen from over 700 auditions, and the show has run to four series.
What can a casting director do before a commission?
- Read the script and say who could play it, and who is realistic.
- Cast a pilot, a taster or a read-through.
- Start a wide search for a part that is hard to fill, such as a child lead or a voice from one particular town.
- Check availability before a schedule is fixed.
What do I need to have ready?
The script or the idea, and dates if you have them. That is enough for a first conversation.
Which parts need the longest lead time?
Children, because licences need at least 21 days, and any role that needs an open or street search.
Last checked 9 October 2026. Answered by CW Casting. Tell us if something here is out of date.