Tips for Actors from Casting Director Michael Cassara

Casting Director Michael Cassara is a Casting Director and Educator based in New York City and dedicated to developing and fostering the growth of new musicals, plays, and film projects. Since the formation of Michael Cassara Casting in 2003, Michael has worked with many of the nation’s top theatres, including Gulfshore Playhouse, Hangar Theatre, Asolo Repertory Theatre, the Old Globe and more. 

Michael hosted 1:1 coaching sessions with several of the Graduates in the Spotlight in our 2021 Virtual Graduate Showcase. These sessions were a chance for emerging actors on Mandy to benefit from Michael's expert advice and guidance that can help them in their careers.



Here are a few tips Michael gave to our members:

  • Your school's graduate showcase is not the be-all and end-all. Platforms like Mandy are great to take advantage of, to meet people, to put material out there.
  • Following up or reaching out to a casting director is generally fine, and nowadays there are often digital opportunities as well, including e-mail and social media.


Our members loved the opportunity to chat with Michael and here are a few testimonials from them:

  • "The meeting was wonderful - I am so thankful for the opportunity! We actually had a few connections through my university and were chatting about them, as well as my post grad plans. I'm signing with representation in Atlanta, with plans to save up and eventually make the move to NYC. We spoke about the different agencies I’ve been meeting with and finding the right fit for me. He was incredibly kind and asked me to keep in touch and let him know when I make the move. Iit was lovely to have the opportunity to get to know him and chat about the industry. Thank you so much, Mandy!" - Jade Malka
  • "The session went well! Lucky for me, he had already seen my Showcase submission prior to the Mandy process, so we got to use more of the time to discuss than watch. Michael gave me a great insight about accompanying oneself in auditions. I had asked if making my own arrangements was distracting or if it was helpful in an audition room, and he essentially told me it’s a risk that is sometimes worth taking. He personally isn’t a huge fan of it, but he told me that there are plenty of folks who love what it shows in a performer. I appreciated this opportunity! I had met Michael before, but he mentioned that it takes him a few meetings to really know someone. And for the chance to have this second meeting, I was completely grateful." - Benjamin Nurthen
  • "It was truly so fun, Michael was extremely kind, personable, thoughtful, hilarious, and genuine. If there wasn’t someone in the waiting room we would’ve just kept on chatting. He gave such honest, truthful advice, and we laughed so much. It was really fun to connect through mutual friends and colleagues, and I am so grateful I had the chance to meet Michael one on one. Thank you so much for the opportunity. I can’t tell you how appreciative I am." - Jordana Kagan


Do you want to attend an upcoming Mandy Coaching Session?

Mandy's Coaching Sessions provide an opportunity for professionals to get free one-on-one career advice from top industry professionals in the industry. These events are run exclusively for Premium Members. Keep an eye out for the next Mandy Surgery here.