I received a callback over the weekend for a show I auditioned for a few weeks ago. However, the role I was called in for is one I'm not very interested in (it's a character part). I have a feeling it's partially because of what I put on my audition form. Seems kind of straight forward - but here's my problem:

The character I was called back for was listed with the character I was interested in as if it was being double-cast. However, by accident in the rush of the moment, I only put the first listed character's name - not the one I was actually interested in.

Apparently, the role is NOT double cast. I'm gathering they called me back for this one role because of that - especially since the character goes against the type I have been playing to lately. I would not have a problem if it showcased my talents between both characters, but I would have rather had character B in place of character A.

However, it's with a well-respected theatre company that I would love to work with in the future (if not on this show).

I'm not afraid of not finding another role. I'm more concerned on what I should do regarding this call back and how to leave the best impression possible in the theatre's eyes.

(1) Do I just turn down the callback?

(2) Should I ask to read for the other part if I go to the callback?

(3) Should I just take what I can get?

My big concern is that this would be more prominent in the community, so I feel bad turning it down - but would also hate to be typecast or viewed as a character actor rather than leading man (which is how I've been cast consistently before) because of this.

Any advice would be appreciated!

Thanks - Jon

If there's pay involved, I think you should just stick it out and take the part.

However if it's no pay or very small pay, I'd recommend you doing what you feel most comfortable with. Just remember that you probably aren't always going to get the parts you want and they might see something in you that you don't even realize yet, it could be a pretty good experience you'd be turning down.

A type cast actor is a working actor.

I wouldn't worry about it too much and go in for the callback. Make the most of it, and if you feel comfortable you could mention your interest in the other role.

The callback will make you more familiar with these people and is a great networking opportunity. If they offer you the character role you could consider turning it down. But just going in for a callback does not commit you to anything.

I say you should go to the call back or sure. And you should mention to them that you would be interested in the other part.

As for turning a part down that you don't want, it depends on how much you don't want it. With theater, it's a big time commitment. I have turned down parts.

Sometimes it is good to go against the grain.

One has a good chance to learn something new about oneself.

JonFire

I believe there is great value in giving credibility to who/what type Casting sees you as. It may be more useful than how you see yourself . . .at least as far as casting goes.

Sometimes it is hard to swallow, but in this business, perception is reality.

Just my two cents.
Consider inflation.

Jim

unless it's a role

1. you have moral issues against
2. doesn't pay
3. is a ridiculously long commitment (whatever that means to you, for theatre you shold start with 2-3 months)
4. is keeping you from accepting a role in a feature film or on broadway

just take it. it could be fun!

we've all done roles that we didn't necessarily want. i can name multiple examples right now for me, but won't. but unless it's keeping you from another job that you for sure have, why not?

i mean, the roles i've done that i didn't want, there were other benefits that came with it. such as wanting to work with the theatre in the future (an issue you have!).

it may or may not hurt to ask if you can read for the other role, but you may regret not doing so. on the other hand, i agree with others that it lets you see how others see you. even if you wrote down one character, if they felt you were better for another character, they would have called you back for th character you were right for.

heck, maybe there's twice as much competition for the role you really want, and you're a shoe-in for this role.

the end result-

do what makes you happy

I'd have gone to the callback, waited to see if I was actually offered the role and then, if I was, decided if I wanted to do it or not.


So how'd it turn out?