Interview with Casting Director Nancy Bishop
This interview with Emmy-nominated casting director Nancy Bishop offers invaluable insights into how to prepare for an acting audition and how to get noticed in acting. With over 25 years of experience, Nancy splits her time between her casting offices in London and Prague and has worked on major films like Mission Impossible — Ghost Protocol, Bourne Identity, and Snowpiercer. Her credits also include TV series such as Dune and 12 Monkeys. Whether you’re looking for casting director advice or practical audition tips for actors, this Nancy Bishop interview has you covered.
On top of that, she’s written three books about auditioning for actors: her most recent book, Auditioning for Film and Television: A Post #MeToo Guide, is recommended by Donald Sutherland who says he read it cover to cover and then bought copies for all his kids. She’s also written: Auditioning for Film and Television: Secrets from a Casting Director, and Secrets from the Casting Couch: On Camera Strategies For Actors From A Casting Director. Her work has made her a go-to authority for actors looking to learn how to stand out in an audition or how to connect with casting directors effectively.
So, I was thrilled when she took time out of her busy schedule to answer a few questions. I have to say, over the years I’ve had several chances to get to know Nancy and she’s always been approachable and down to earth. If you happen to meet her out in public, she’s happy to be greeted in a normal, social way but you can skip the formalities such as “Ms. Bishop” and just call her Nancy.”
Q. What is your preferred method of meeting new actors?
I meet actors in all kinds of ways—through films, plays, and showcases. Occasionally, there are events like 'speed dating' sessions that are specifically organized for this purpose. I also take part in charity initiatives, such as 'Meals for Monologues' by the Casting Society of America. These kinds of events are not only great opportunities for actors to show their skills but also a way for them to learn how to get casting directors' attention in a professional, collaborative setting
Q. What’s the best way for an actor to get on your radar?
Doing good work is the most important thing. Don’t wait for the phone to ring—take action. If you’re in a performance, feel free to invite me. I can’t promise I’ll always be able to attend, but I do appreciate the effort. The key to how to get noticed in acting is being consistent in producing quality work.
Q. How do you prefer actors to stay in touch with you?
I don’t mind the occasional email, especially if it’s about something specific, like an invitation to a show or sharing news about landing a role or winning an award. I will say, though, that sending reels or CVs randomly isn’t the way to go. I receive a lot of those every day, and it’s impossible to go through them all. If you want to know how to connect with casting directors, the key is to be intentional with your outreach.
Q. I’m curious about how you prepare to cast a role… I’m sure for some characters, a particular actor that you think is right will pop into your head but what about when that doesn’t happen? Do you generally start with a wide net of general auditions and then work your way to a short list based on the director’s feedback?
It really depends on the project. For lead roles, we often need a 'valuable actor' to help greenlight the film. In those cases, I’ll work with the director and producers to create a list of actors we can approach with direct offers. For supporting roles, I’ll have a detailed conversation with the director to make sure we’re aligned on the concept. After that, I might create a list of my own or post the breakdown on a database so agents can submit suggestions. The casting process is always tailored to the needs of the project.
Q. Apart from being prepared for an audition, is there anything else you expect (or hope) to see?
For me, auditions are like rehearsals—a rough draft of the performance. I’m not looking for perfection. What matters is how your personal energy and chemistry combine with the role. I want to see how you can move the story forward. One of my biggest acting tips for auditions is to bring your own unique perspective to the role rather than trying to guess what we want.
Q. I’m sure you’ve had some amazing auditions… Did they have anything in common? If so, what? Is there one audition that really stands out as being exceptional?
Great auditions are not always so momentous. I recently heard a quote from Reese Witherspoon where she said something like acting is just listening and behaving as the character would. So I’ve seen many great auditions… When the actor was simply doing their job and telling us the character's story. Some of these didn’t result in getting the actor the role, but that doesn’t mean they weren’t great.
Q. We can’t talk about the best without talking about the worst… Do any auditions stand out as being particularly bad or funny (not in a good way)? Did they have anything in common?
One thing that always stands out—in a bad way—is when actors treat their introduction like a commercial audition, showing me their hands or trying to overly sell themselves. For a film audition, we’re casting you, not your hands. My advice for how to stand out in an audition is to stay grounded and focused on the character.
Q. If you were to introduce yourself and not include the fact that you’re a casting director, what would you want someone to know about you?
Anyone who follows me on social media will see that I love my dog and skiing.
Q. If you could only ever watch three movies for the rest of your life, which ones would you choose?
Reds
Life of Brian
Not sure what else…
Q. What are you watching now?
I’m always watching something for a jury that I’m on. Right now I’m trying to finish up film finalists for the European Film Academy and then I have to get through the BAFTA selections.
Q. Is there anything you’d like to add?
Stay well-lubricated in your craft. That means constantly creating work, taking classes, or offering classes to others.
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➡️ Want to see how I could help you? Let's have a conversation. Here’s a link to my calendar.
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If you’d like to know more about how you can keep in touch with Nancy or participate in her Monologue for Charity challenges, I’ve linked to her website and social media accounts below.
Twitter: @NancyBishopCast
Instagram: @nancybishopcasting
