Connecticut Theaters Weave Unique Casting Stories for Productions

Connecticut’s regional theaters are showcasing a blend of creativity and tradition in their casting processes, as seen in recent productions at TheaterWorks Hartford, Hartford Stage, and Goodspeed Musicals. Each theater brings its own approach to assembling casts, influenced by both established practices and spontaneous moments of inspiration.

Collaborative Casting at TheaterWorks Hartford

At TheaterWorks Hartford, the journey to casting the current production of “The Counter” involved an informal reading that ultimately shaped the decision-making process. The theater sought to collaborate again with actor Tim DeKay, who previously starred in the hit production “Fever Dreams.” Initially unsure about the role, DeKay participated in a reading that featured Justis Bolding and Erika Rolfsrud, both of whom contributed to the success of the project. Following this reading, Bolding was offered a lead role, while Rolfsrud was invited to return in celebration of TheaterWorks Hartford’s 40th anniversary season. “The Counter” opened on February 12, 2025, and has received positive reviews, leading to an extension of its run through March 22.

Exploring Themes with Hartford Stage

Meanwhile, at Hartford Stage, the casting for the much-anticipated production of “Death of a Salesman” was guided by director Melia Bensussen, who sought to explore specific themes through the characters. She reached out to Peter Jacobson, a fellow alum from Brown University, to portray Willy Loman. Jacobson’s extensive acting background, including a notable role on the television series “House,” contributed to his selection. Bensussen also cast Adrianne Krstansky, an actress with whom she had collaborated previously. This familiarity allowed for a smoother rehearsal process, while other cast members were sourced through open auditions.

The casting practices at Hartford Stage often include a combination of familiar faces and new talent, shaped by the guidelines of the Actors’ Equity Union. Zoe Golub-Sass, the associate artistic director, noted that the union’s rules influence how auditions are conducted. She emphasized that individual character descriptions are created collaboratively with directors before auditions begin.

Goodspeed Musicals, on the other hand, faces a different challenge with its casting process, often seeing hundreds of performers audition for each production. Adam Souza, the music director, highlighted that they conduct approximately 1,500 auditions each season, with “Ragtime” alone attracting nearly 900 auditioners. The Equity Chorus Call (ECC) is a significant part of this process, aimed at identifying ensemble performers.

The Role of Open Auditions and Emerging Talent

Open auditions, or Equity Principal Auditions (EPAs), are essential for regional theaters. They allow for a diverse range of talent to be considered and help fill roles that might not yet have been cast. Souza explained that the ECCs are open to all performers, and if union members miss their scheduled slots, non-union actors may be invited to audition. This inclusivity has proven beneficial for all involved.

Even when specific roles are pre-cast, as seen with TheaterWorks Hartford’s decision for “The Counter,” auditions still proceed to adhere to union regulations and prepare for potential emergencies. Golub-Sass mentioned that while video submissions have become common, in-person auditions remain invaluable for assessing a performer’s fit.

In terms of local engagement, TheaterWorks Hartford made a conscious decision to cast the upcoming show “Circus Fire,” based on a historical tragedy in Hartford, exclusively with Connecticut-based actors. Ruggiero explained that this approach honors the community’s connection to the story.

As the casting process unfolds, directors play a pivotal role in making final decisions. Each director’s unique style can influence the casting outcome significantly. Souza noted that some directors may favor a particular performer based on previous collaborations, while others may seek a more ensemble-driven approach.

The casting process in regional theaters is complex and dynamic, requiring a balance of artistic vision, community engagement, and adherence to union regulations. As these Connecticut theaters continue to produce compelling works, their commitment to thoughtful casting remains a key ingredient in their success.

In conclusion, the stories of how casts are formed offer insight into the intricate and often serendipitous nature of theater production. Ruggiero aptly summarized the process, stating, “Everything happens for a reason. The universe usually has a way of working it out.”