Guide
How to run an open casting call in the UK
An open casting call (an open call) invites anyone who fits the brief to apply. Here are the 7 steps.
Updated 1 October 2026
1. Write the brief
Say who you want: playing age, look or background where it matters, location, dates and pay. Say what to film for each role.
2. Pick one place
Send everyone to one link and one form. Ask for the same details, a photo and a self-tape.
3. Ask for a short self-tape
- Keep the scene short. A minute is plenty.
- Ask for landscape, a quiet room and light in front.
- Give a closing date and time.
4. Share the link
Post it where the people you want are: social media, community groups, local press. For street casting, print a QR code.
5. Under-18s: guardian consent and licences
Anyone under 18 should apply with a parent or guardian, who confirms the application. In England, many child performances also need a local authority licence and a licensed chaperone.
6. Review: Yes or No
Review one person at a time and say Yes or No. Keep contact details private until you offer the part.
7. Close and delete the data
UK GDPR says not to keep personal data longer than you need. Tell applicants the deletion date. Then delete the forms, spreadsheets, tapes and emails.
Open casting call checklist
- A brief for each role
- One link and one form
- A closing date and time
- Guardian consent for under-18s
- A Yes list without contact details
- A deletion date applicants are told
How Open Casting helps
Open Casting does steps 2 to 7, from £250 per casting call.
Common questions
What is an open casting call?
An open casting call invites anyone who fits a brief to apply, not only actors put forward by agents. Productions use them to find real people and new faces. Most ask for a form, a photo and a self-tape.
How long should an open casting call stay open?
Usually 1 to 3 weeks: long enough for the link to travel and for people to film a tape. Tell applicants the closing date and time.
How long can I keep applicants' data?
Only as long as the production needs it. UK GDPR expects you to tell applicants how long, then delete on time. Open Casting deletes automatically, by default 30 days after the production finishes.
Can children apply to an open casting call?
Yes, with a parent or guardian's consent. In England, many performances by children also need a child performance licence from the local authority. Check the Department for Education guidance.
Further reading
Run your next open casting call
Free to set up. From £250 per casting call, paid when you publish.