At Innovative Arts we reinforce the idea that not being cast in your ideal role is a part of the learning process, it does not reflect your talent or skill level, or how much the team likes having you as part of the community. Disappointment is normal in any program - sports, academics, art - however in a niche and subjective program like Musical Theatre is can be additionally prominent and difficult to navigate.

We’ve seen it in every theatre movie and TV show - the moment when the cast list is posted and everyone flocks to see who they will be playing. Although we don’t have a traditional cast list like the movies, we do know how much excitement and anxiety can come with casting announcements. We know that this can be overwhelming to process so here are a few ways to navigate the intense emotions that come with the cast list. 

We know many of our students have different priorities when it comes to casting. Some students want to be with a senior group, some want to be with their best friend, some place the greatest importance on the role, and some are easygoing about all of these things! 

Auditions and the casting process come with a lot of big feelings: anticipation, excitement, anxiety, and disappointment.  As a young performer, the casting process may feel confusing, and you may not always understand why certain decisions are made. It is our hope to demystify what conversations go on “behind the scenes” in the casting room with this guide.

Musical theatre is a pretty niche hobby! If you compare the amount of hockey teams, martial arts facilities, and dance studios in one city they likely outnumber the musical theatre programs by quite a lot. It’s no surprise that having a musical theatre kid can mean that parents feel a little out of their element, and we have always been passionate about supporting both our students and their families through musical theatre training.

Every season, after announcing the next Innovative Arts musical, students begin picturing themselves taking on their favourite characters and singing their favourite songs. It’s really a testament to good storytelling when most of our students connect with the lead characters in the show. However, this can be difficult when it comes time for casting, as every musical is a combination of leads, supporting, featured, and ensemble characters.