Production Jobs Deep Dive: Casting

 The script is ready, the director is attached, pre-production is ramping up. It’s time to fill out the world of your project, and for that, you need a good casting director. The casting process requires a detail oriented, personable, and knowledgeable person to help find the perfect actors for your roles. Casting can be a long and arduous process.  

“We received over 1,000 voiceover submissions for a national episodic docudrama series being filmed just outside of Springfield, MO,” said Tiffany Renee Bear, casting director and owner of Bear Casting in Southwest Missouri.  

 Because casting is such an acting-focused department, it’s not uncommon for casting directors to get their start in front of the camera.  

 “I was interested in becoming an actor,” says Joni Tackette, a casting director and owner of Joni Tackette Casting in St. Louis. “I graduated from Lindenwood College (now Lindenwood University) with a Theatre degree and Communications minor. After graduation, I became an intern at Central Casting in Baltimore/Washington, DC because I wanted to learn more about the on-camera side of the business.” 

 Bear had a similar story, “Before moving to Missouri in 2017 to join the cast at Sight and Sound Theatre, I spent years working in regional theatre, on-camera, voiceover and modeling across the US.” 

 Heather Laird, a casting director based in Kansas City and owner of Wright/Laird Casting, also had ambitions of being an actor. 

  “I started out as an actor – got my degree in Theatre from the University of Kansas and then moved to LA in the early 80’s to pursue my career in front of the camera,” says Laird. “I had a few successes, but mostly disappointments for which I was wholly unprepared. It broke my spirit for a while as I honestly didn’t know what else to do with myself besides acting.” 

But Laird quickly learned that casting was where their passion was. “Then, on the suggestion of an aspiring writer friend, I signed up for an internship with a company that produced film shorts. In a matter of days, I was completely smitten by the opportunity to work with actors and be on an inside track in the industry. I cut my teeth on independent features, made-for-TV movies, and episodic television.” 

Both Tackette and Bear realized their love of casting in a similar fashion. “I’ve always been a ‘connector.’ I love people, and I genuinely enjoy linking individuals who I believe would collaborate well together,” says Bear. She went on, “Bear Casting is the culmination of everything I love – creativity, people, collaboration, and the joy of discovering and cultivating talent. I’m passionate about guiding projects from vision to completion with professionalism and heart.” 

Laird had a similar sentiment and said, “I love actors and directing, and the creative process of watching a role come alive in the hands of talented professionals. I also really enjoy being on set when the work requires it.” 

Casting can be a very rewarding job, as Tackette said, “I have three favorite things: #1: I enjoy meeting talent.  #2: It’s fun to search and find interesting character types.  #3: I get to work with some really creative directors, production companies and producers.” But it can also be somewhat tedious, as Tackette said her least favorite thing about the position was paperwork. 

Something that Bear, Laird, and Tackette, as well as many other casting directors, seem to have in common is a love of collaboration and connection with other filmmakers and artists. 

“One of my absolute favorites is getting to see such a wide variety of talent share their gifts,” said Bear. “Reviewing submissions truly feels like Christmas morning – each headshot, reel, portfolio, or self-tape is like opening a gift. It’s a privilege to get a glimpse into someone’s artistry, personality, and heart through their materials.” 

As their position works so directly with actors, we asked Tackette, Laird, and Bear what advice they have for actors. 

“If you live in Missouri, and only want to find acting work in this state, most talent do it on a part-time basis,” said Tackette. “So, have another job to support yourself and/or your family. Then, sign with a talent agency that can give you guidance to find and submit you for the opportunities in this state. No matter where you are, always continue to hone your skills, and be a professional in your approach to auditions and jobs.” 

“To be successful actors need to treat their part of the audition process with a high level of professionalism,” said Laird. “It is their job and should be afforded the same respect as any other work for which they are paid. If that is not possible, then they should think very hard about their priorities. There is no point in investing half-heartedly in this business – there are too many other talented individuals who will always bring their A-Game and who will walk away with the parts.” 

“Be you,” was Bear’s first piece of advice for actors. “Stop trying to guess what a casting director, client, or director wants. Bring your authentic self into every audition and every project. The combination of confidence and humility is incredibly powerful. Your uniqueness is your greatest asset—lean into it.” 

“Never stop learning,” was her second piece of advice. “Acting is an art – but it’s also a business. Pursue growth in both. Keep training, sharpening your skills, and learning from those around you. Stay open, stay curious, and always strive for excellence, not perfection. If you want to thrive in this industry, you must invest in your craft and in your business acumen.  Compete with your craft, not your colleagues. Yes, it’s a competitive field—so compete to get better. Push yourself. But never lose sight of the value of collaboration and community. 

“Training and experience matter,” was Bear’s last piece of advice for actors. “Good training doesn’t just elevate your craft—it sets you apart in a sea of submissions. Even understanding simple technical elements like eyelines can make or break a self-tape…Start by trusting your instincts but also get quality training. (Emphasis on QUALITY.)” 

Laird, Tackette, and Bear also had advice for people who were interested in being casting directors.  

“Intern with a casting director,” advised Laird. “This is the best way to learn about the expectations for the job and the industry standards that are part of the job description. It can be a lot of fun, but it is also a lot of work to be successful. More than half of the job is organization. If a person is passionate about actors and thrives on being buttoned down, this could be a good fit for them.” 

“Take acting or directing classes and learn how to communicate with actors during the audition process,” said Tackette. “Try to work for a casting professional, or a talent agency, it will help you learn about the audition process and the industry. Then you can decide if it’s really something that you are interested in pursuing.” 

 “Empathy and understanding are absolutely essential in this industry,” said Bear. “It’s so important to step into the shoes of every person involved in a project – whether that’s the client, producer, director, crew members, or actors. Take time to educate yourself beyond your own role. Watch a producing masterclass, learn about marketing, or even participate in a show or film set to experience what it’s like on the acting side – submit to a project, film a self-tape, and understand the vulnerability that comes with it. When everyone feels heard and supported, that’s when the best collaborative work happens.” 

“Organization is a must,” Bear added. “Strong leadership and interpersonal skills are absolutely essential. As a Casting Director, I see myself as both a leader and a servant—we are here to support the client, producer, director, writer, and the entire creative team. Our job is to help bring their vision to life. Casting Directors do not make the final casting decisions. Our role is to facilitate, support, and elevate the vision—not to dictate it.. The ability to assess situations, problem-solve in real time, and make thoughtful decisions under pressure is what sets great professionals apart.”

If you are interested in learning more about casting, email mofilm@ded.mo.gov. If you work in casting and are interested in connecting with more filmmakers in Missouri, make a listing for yourself in the Production Services Directory.