I thought this was odd... but maybe it's just me. I know sometimes a part will car for a beard, and I know sometimes they will audition people with beards... but this is different.

I was just asked to audition, having submitted a clean- headshot, for a bearded role... They said when they sent out the details/sides, "Do not shave". This is the first audition for a non-paying role! I would grow it if cast, but not for just a non-paying short audition.

I told them that I was doing another project (which is true), and had to shave this week, but that I would still love to audition... but they declined.

This seems like asking actors to get a buzz cut to audition for a military part... getting a little ahead of themselves.

I think you're very right. Non-paying only adds to that. You don't change your look for first round auditions. If a beard was that important to them, then they shouldn't be calling in people without them.

Glad to hear it, Tommy! When no one said anything in response to my post, I was starting to think I was wrong.

Thanks!