This workshop offers a rare, in-depth look at how casting decisions are really made, led by Mel Brown (Spotlight) and Suzanne Smith, a double Emmy Award-winning and Artios Award-winning casting director with over 30 years of experience across film, television, and theatre. Suzanne’s extensive credits include internationally acclaimed productions such as Outlander, Good Omens, Shadow and Bone, and Carnival Row.

Drawing on her decades at the forefront of the industry, Mel and Suzanne will guide participants through the full casting journey - from the first script breakdown and creative conversations with directors and producers, through auditions, callbacks, and final decisions. The session will explore the many artistic, practical, and collaborative factors that influence casting choices, offering clarity on what casting directors are truly looking for at each stage.

Designed to demystify the process, this workshop provides actors with valuable insight into how to approach auditions with confidence, purpose, and professionalism, while better understanding how their work is viewed from the casting director’s perspective.