From CU Scarborough to centre stage: what directors look for when casting actors

CU Scarborough Acting graduates secure roles in Alan Ayckbourn’s Family Album tour

In October 2022, CU Scarborough celebrated the graduation of Acting BA (Hons) students, David Lomond and Jude Deeno. Shortly before completing their studies, both secured roles in the Stephen Joseph Theatre's (SJT) touring production of Family Album, penned and directed by Sir Alan Ayckbourn. This opportunity not only marked a significant milestone in their budding careers but also underscored the practical training provided during their course.

Family Album rehearsal shot of CU Scarborough Acting BA (Hons) degree alumni; Jude Deeno and Dave Lomond, with Writer and Director; Sir Alan Ayckbourn.

Casting choices and career prospects: an interview with Paul Robinson

In 2023, we spoke with Paul Robinson, the Artistic Director and Joint Chief Executive of SJT, to delve into the factors influencing casting decisions and the career landscape for acting graduates in the Yorkshire region.

Q1 Why did you choose to employ acting students/alumni of CU Scarborough?

Paul: We knew them both from working with them during their three-year course, and were confident in their ability and their work ethic.

Q2 What have been the benefits of employing one of our students/graduates?

Paul: It was brilliant to have two such enthusiastic company members. They both worked really hard and brought a lot to the process, and their enthusiasm and commitment made them very popular within the team.

Q3 What is the earning potential for a CU Scarborough acting graduate who secures a position within your organisation?

Paul: Acting, of course, is usually a freelance career, so we only employ actors for the duration of the show they’re cast in, which for us, is usually a four/five-week rehearsal period followed by a three/four week performance period (that can be boosted if we go on tour with the show). We pay in line with equity so at the moment that’s just under £500* per week plus touring allowance or subsistence if they have to live away from home.
*quoted in 2023

Paul Robinson, Artistic Director and Joint CEO, Stephen Joseph Theatre (SJT).

Q4 What other job opportunities do you feel our acting students have in the local community?

Paul: There are five producing theatres in Yorkshire, all of which will cast shows throughout the year. These theatres tend to like to recruit at least some of their companies from the north. There are also theatre-related roles; for instance, many of the graduates work in box office or front of house for us, or run workshops in our creative engagement team. There may be similar opportunities with companies such as Scarborough Museums and Galleries, ARCADE and Create.

Q5 What do you feel are the skills gaps in the acting/creative industries?

Paul: In the creative industries, we struggle to find technicians and also producers.

Q6 What advice would you give to other businesses in the local area looking to employ CU Scarborough acting graduates?

Paul: The CU Scarborough graduates we have employed – in a variety of roles across our theatre – have all been enthusiastic, hard-working and really committed to their roles. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them as excellent employees.

Preparing for a career in acting

Our Acting BA (Hons) degree at CU Scarborough, delivered in collaboration with the SJT, aims to provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to excel in the professional world. Beyond honing performance skills, the curriculum includes:

• contract negotiation and understanding working terms
• crafting professional CVs and obtaining headshots
• developing personal websites
• guidance on Spotlight registration and representation.

This course is designed to develop your resourcefulness to create opportunities and strengthen your work ethic. Recognising the fluctuating nature of acting careers, the programme also emphasises wellbeing, ensuring graduates are resilient and prepared for industry challenges.

For more information, visit the CU Scarborough Acting BA (Hons) degree course page or attend our upcoming Open Event.

*Photography: courtesy of Tony Bartholomew / Stephen Joseph Theatre.