Onstage: Casting Call

Episode 12 : Inside the Casting Pipeline: The Auditions Actors Never See

In this live episode of Onstage Casting Call, David Greenwood OAM and Brian Coppock take actors behind the scenes of the casting process and unpack the opportunities many performers never see publicly. From Casting Networks, Showcast, Altai and StarNow through to producer portals, private briefs and direct industry relationships, this episode explores how professional casting opportunities actually move through the industry, and why representation can make such a difference. David and Brian discuss what agents do behind the scenes, why actors are not submitted for every role, what makes a performer more casting-ready, and how headshots, profiles, self-tapes, communication and reliability all shape professional opportunities. This episode is ideal for actors, musical theatre performers, screen talent, emerging artists and parents of young performers who want a clearer, more practical understanding of how the casting world really works. Hosted by David Greenwood OAM and Brian Coppock. For representation enquiries, contact agency@centrestage.org.au.

Episode 11: Don’t Fall in Love With Your Work with Alan Menken

Last night, David Greenwood OAM attended A Whole New World of Alan Menken at Melbourne’s Palais Theatre, a remarkable celebration of one of musical theatre and film’s most influential composers. In this reflective episode of Onstage: Casting Call, David explores one of the hardest lessons in creative work: don’t fall in love with your work, because even brilliant songs, scenes, auditions and ideas can end up on the cutting room floor. Using Alan Menken’s performance and the history of cut songs from shows like Little Shop of Horrors as a starting point, this episode looks at creative resilience, feedback, self-tapes, collaboration and the discipline required to serve the story rather than protect your ego. Brought to you by CentreStage.

Episode 10: Why Talent Isn’t Enough: Casting, Self-Tapes & Industry Reality with Steven Tortosa

In this episode of Onstage Casting Call, David Greenwood OAM and Brian Coppock sit down with Steven Tortosa from Cummings and Partners to unpack what really happens behind the camera and in the casting room. Steven shares a candid look at how productions are brought to life, from executing creative ideas within budget to managing high-pressure shoot days and complex regulations, especially when working with young performers. This conversation goes beyond surface-level advice. It tackles: * What casting directors and producers actually look for in talent * Why your self-tape might be holding you back * The growing shift towards “real people” casting and what that means * The impact of rising industry rates on opportunities * How professionalism and preparation can make or break your career If you are serious about booking work and understanding how the industry really operates, this episode gives you the clarity most performers never get.

Episode 9: Owning the Room: Joanna McKinnon Ward on Craft, Confidence and Career Longevity

In Episode 9 of OnStage: Casting Call, we sit down with the formidable Joanna McKinnon Ward to unpack what it truly takes to build a sustainable, respected career in the performing arts. Joanna speaks candidly about discipline, preparation and the mindset required to thrive in a competitive industry. From early training and breakthrough opportunities to navigating auditions, rejection and reinvention, this conversation goes beyond surface-level advice and dives into the realities of professional performance. We explore what casting directors are really looking for, how performers can take ownership of their brand, and why resilience is not optional but essential. Joanna also reflects on the responsibility artists carry within their communities and the importance of lifting others as you climb. This episode is practical, honest and energising. Whether you are an emerging performer, a seasoned creative, or a parent supporting a young artist, there are clear takeaways about preparation, professionalism and backing yourself when it matters most. A grounded and inspiring conversation with one of the industry’s respected voices.

Onstage: Casting Call – Live from the Foyer | Passport to Broadway – Parent Perspectives

Recorded live in the foyer during CentreStage’s Passport to Broadway, this special episode of Onstage: Casting Call focuses on the parent experience behind the scenes. Hosted by Brian Coppock and David Greenwood, the conversation is joined by guest parent Ryan Keogh, who shares honest insights into supporting a young performer through training, rehearsals, performances, and professional opportunities. Together, we explore growing up in theatre from a family perspective, the role of education alongside creative commitments, child safety and wellbeing, and how parents can best support their children to develop confidence, resilience, and a healthy relationship with the industry. Recorded in front of a live audience, this episode captures the spirit of Passport to Broadway and highlights the importance of strong partnerships between families, educators, and creative professionals in creating safe, supportive pathways for young people in the performing arts.