Casting and Audition Venues for Hire in London

Your Guide to Hiring Casting and Audition Venues in London

When hiring casting and audition venues, remember to choose a space that reflects your needs. When casting the next big thing, you’ll probably need to accommodate hundreds of people, but if you’re familiar with your market and are only expecting a few dozen auditioners, then a local music room, practice space or casting suite might be ideal. If you don’t hire a traditional auditorium with a separate backstage area, make sure to allocate a space where performers will wait their turn, as well as a private area with tables and chairs, where you and your associates can confer.

Another thing to consider is the type of people or acts you expect to attend your casting. This will matter a great deal for the type of casting and audition venues you're planning to hire! For solo acting auditions, a small casting room and a designated waiting area will be more than enough, but for bold artistic performances with large crews or bands, a big stage is what you’re after. Spacious creative spaces and warehouses can also work pretty well. If you’re casting for a photo shoot model, something like a photo or recording studio would be a good fit for your audition.

Top 7 tips for holding your first audition

Are you a band looking for a new member? Maybe you’re working on your own movie and trying to find capable actors? Either way, we got you covered! Take a look at our list of things you need to remember before holding your first audition:

• Pick your criteria. Before you start looking for the best talent for your project, you have to think about what you want to achieve with your audition. What’s the role you need to fill? Do you have any requirements for the potential candidates? What kind of person would be the best fit for your team? Write them down for you and the other judges so that all of you are on the same page about the person you’re looking for.

• Search for casting and audition venues. It’s good to start looking for potential audition spaces early - you have to make sure your venue is hired and ready to go before you put out your casting call. Depending on the purpose of the audition, and the potential amount of people attending, pretty much any space could be repurposed for a casting or audition. If you consider all the options, you’ll find yourself some great casting and audition venues in no time!

• Plan the audition. Now that you have a rough idea of how many people you can accommodate during your audition, it’s time to think of the specifics. First, you have to choose the way you’re going to handle the audition. You can pick between a set audition and an open audition. The main difference between the two is that everyone is free to come to an open audition, whereas you will have to invite the talent individually to a set audition. If you think you may have space constraints, and won’t be able to handle an open audition, opt for a set audition. At the minimum, make sure you have at least 1-2 people to help you with hosting the audition and rating the talent.

• Hire the equipment. This is especially important if you’re searching for a band member or an instrumentalist. While your candidates will usually want to bring their own instruments, players of big and heavy instruments (such as pianists or drummers) would not be able to do the same. Depending on the size of your casting room or scene, they may need microphones, amps, and stage monitors for you to hear them. A camera for recording video footage will be very helpful for making your final decision.

• Announce it. After you work out all the details, it’s time to finally put the call out! Get some posters, tell your friends or contacts to spread the word, and use social media to your advantage. Be clear about the process of the audition, provide specific dates and your contact information or your audition venue’s address.

• Brief the talent. When you get to the big day, make sure to prepare the potential candidates to do their task to the best of your ability. Provide them with the materials they need (such as an acting script, lyrics or sheet music for a musician) and some refreshments to make their wait more pleasant. Make sure they know the general time frame of their performance and try your best to stay on schedule.
  

• Get started! If you’ve prepared your casting requirements, and made sure everything is in its place, this should be very simple. Every time a new candidate enters, ask them to introduce themselves, then introduce yourself, and make sure they understand the assignment. See what they have to offer compared to the other candidates and consult with your co-judge often (preferably after their audition). If you have any concerns or questions, make sure to take notes to remember their performances later down the line.

Creating the Right Atmosphere: Setting Up Your Audition Space

Finding the perfect venue in London for your casting or audition is just the first step. The atmosphere within that space can significantly influence the performance and experience of those auditioning. Creating an environment that encourages creativity and comfort is absolutely essential. Here's how to ensure your audition space sets the stage for nothing but success!

• Location and Ambiance: Choose a venue that resonates with the theme of your project. Whether it's a cosy small venue for closed auditions or a spacious hall for large-scale castings, the location sets the mood. Consider using natural light for daytime auditions, as it can boost energy levels and reduce nervousness among participants. For evening sessions, ensure the lighting is warm and inviting, avoiding harsh fluorescent lights.
• Comfort and Accessibility: Ensure the audition space is welcoming and comfortable. Arrange seating thoughtfully, with enough space between the chairs to give everyone personal space, yet close enough to foster a sense of community. Convenience is paramount, so verify that the venue is easily reachable by Tube and other public transport options.
• Quiet Zones and Waiting Areas: A separate area where performers can prepare and wait for their turn is a great asset. This space should be away from the main audition room to minimise noise and distractions. Consider offering water, tea, or coffee in the waiting area to make it more comfortable. Adding a mirror and a few chairs can create a makeshift green room where the actors can mentally prepare.
• Technical Setup: The right technical setup can enhance the audition experience significantly. Ensure the sound system is of good quality, especially if you're auditioning musicians or singers. If possible, provide a simple PA system for playback or accompaniment. For acting auditions, a screen for showing scripts or scenes can be helpful.
• Personal Touches: Adding personal touches to the audition space can make it more inviting. Consider displaying artwork or photos related to the project to inspire and excite candidates about the opportunity. Soft background music (when appropriate) can ease tension and create a more relaxed environment.
• Communication and Direction: Clear signage directing participants to the audition space, registration area, and waiting room is essential. Consider having a welcome desk where candidates can check in and receive information about the audition process. This initial interaction sets a supportive tone and can alleviate any confusion or anxiety.
• Feedback and Encouragement: Create an atmosphere of openness and encouragement. While not every audition will result in a role, ensuring every participant feels valued and receives constructive feedback can leave a lasting positive impression. Consider setting up a feedback station where candidates can receive initial thoughts or advice post-audition.

A well-thought-out audition environment can enhance performance levels, making your search for the perfect candidate both effective and enjoyable. So, make sure to focus on these few aspects, and you’ll turn your London venue into a fantastic audition space that respects all the needs of the participants!

Audition Marketing 101: Attracting the Right Talent to Your Venue

Now that you know how to build an excellent atmosphere for your casting in London, you should make sure that you know how to attract the best candidates. The key to a successful casting call is attracting the right talent. Here’s how to ensure your venue not only stands out with its assets and amazing vibe, but also draws in the performers you’re seeking.

• Identify Your Target: Clarify the type of talent you're seeking. Is it actors for a groundbreaking theatre production, musicians for a new band, or dancers for a contemporary performance? Whatever your need, defining your target audience is crucial to your marketing strategy.
• Leverage Social Media: Utilise platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to reach potential candidates. Create engaging content that highlights the unique aspects of your project and venue. Use hashtags relevant to your industry and location (e.g., #LondonAuditions, #CastingCallLondon) to increase visibility. Short teaser videos of the venue or previous successful projects can generate excitement and interest.
• Use Industry Platforms: Post your casting call on reputable audition and casting websites. Platforms such as Spotlight and Casting Networks are frequented by professionals actively seeking opportunities. Ensure your listing is detailed, specifying the type of talent you’re looking for, the project details, and what makes your London artistic venue the ideal place for their audition.
• Collaborate with Local Arts Schools and Communities: Partnering with drama schools, music conservatoires, and dance academies can be a direct line to fresh talent. You could organise workshops or open days at your venue to build relationships with these communities. Displaying posters or flyers in local arts venues, cafes, and community boards can also capture the attention of potential applicants.
• Offer an Enticing Package: Highlight what makes auditioning at your hired space in London a special opportunity. Whether it's state-of-the-art facilities, a panel of renowned industry professionals, or the chance to be part of an innovative project, make sure these features are front and centre in your promotional materials.
• Word of Mouth: Never underestimate the power of word of mouth. Encourage colleagues, previous talent you’ve worked with, and industry contacts to spread the word. Personal recommendations add credibility to your casting call.
• Email Marketing: If you have a database of performers from past auditions or shows, send out a targeted email campaign. Personalise the message to make recipients feel specially selected to audition at your venue. Include all necessary details, emphasising any unique selling points of both the project and the venue.
• Create a Buzz: Generate anticipation and excitement around your audition. Hosting a Q&A session on social media, sharing behind-the-scenes content, or offering a sneak peek of the venue can engage potential applicants. Creating a sense of community and involvement even before the audition can attract a wider pool of talent.

By combining these strategies, you can ensure your casting or audition venue doesn’t just attract applicants but draws in just the right talent you’re looking for, that is eager to be part of your project. Effective marketing not only fills your venue with potential stars but also elevates the profile of your production, setting the stage for a resounding success.

And if you need any more info about hiring casting and audition venues then make sure to check out our FAQ below!

FAQs about Casting and Audition Venues in London

What's the price of organising a casting or audition in London?

Unless you wish to invest into advertising your audition, the main cost of organising such an event will be the venue hire. Prices for venues suitable for castings and auditions start at £12 per hour and can reach up to £500 per hour or more. If you want to go for a daily hire, expect prices between £150 and £10000 per day and beyond. (All data from Tagvenue.com)

What types of venues can be used for castings or auditions?

• Blank canvases - If all you need is an open space, you won’t have any trouble finding some neat blank canvas spaces to host your casting or audition.

• Small theatres - If you want to make your talent feel more special, or want to throw together a talent show, you’ll be able to find some nice locations with fully fledged stages around the city.

• Conference rooms - These can be repurposed into a space well suitable for casting and auditions, and you can find dozens of them all over central London.

• Photo and video studios - If a space for model casting is what you’re after, how about carrying out the audition in a real studio environment? Venues designed for photo and video shoots are widely available across the city.

Will I need any additional equipment for the casting or audition?

Depending on the type of talent you’re after, you will have different things to prepare. If you’re a director looking for undiscovered actors, you have to share the script with them. Maybe you can provide them with some props as well? If you’re looking for musicians, basic sound equipment, and possibly instruments should be in place. Some sort of recording equipment would help you with the process of choosing the perfect candidate after the audition day.

What are my options for casting spaces in Central London?

Screening Room at Pushkin House - This blank canvas venue would be great for your next audition. It has great reviews and is located a short walk away from The British Museum.

Studio 1 at Cromer Studios - A space set up and ready for auditions and rehearsals, complete with a waiting area, changing room, and a spacious main studio. You can find it just a block away from the A501, close to King’s Cross Station.

The Basement at The Calder Theatre Bookshop - Located in Southwark, this blank canvas room offers a nice, secluded space with an upright piano included with the hire.

Photo and Film Studio at UP Studios - This Wharf Road studio boasts a large, minimal space great for all sorts of purposes, including music and acting auditions.

Theatre at October Gallery - With close proximity to Russell Square and plenty of space you can arrange to meet your needs, this space can become a perfect location for many types of auditions.