I am a director of a community theatre and we recently held auditions for an energetic musical-a highly desired one judging from the turn out at auditions. How do you other directors deal with not casting people you know who just didn't tow the line at auditions. I recently had several ,loyal actor friends show up at my audition, unprepared,non energetic and not very serious about the process. Do I cast them knowing they can do better or do I keep the bar at the same level and hold them to the same standards as a complete stranger coming thru the door?  I actually know the answer to that but it really irritates me- and now I'm getting grief from some about why I didn't cast them--how do the rest of you deal with this situation...... Thanks-

I think it's inevitable that having done a good job for a director before will lead to a bit of favoritism, but there's a difference between the reasonable and unreasonable.  I've gotten some roles where it seemed to be close between myself and another actor, but I think what tipped the balance in my favor was the fact that the director knew me better, and was confident that I was reliable.  And in all truthfulness, I think prior working experience has sometimes made me lean towards one actor over another when I'm casting.  BUT, as in your situation, if your friends think they automatically deserve roles from you and don't give the audition their all, then you're absolutely right not to cast them.

I think your situation makes it not only right but easier not to cast them, as, when they come see the show (which they hopefully will), they will probably realize that they weren't cast because they couldn't provide what your actors gave you.  I always find it comforting when I'm not cast to realize that the director was looking for something I didn't fit, rather than me thinking, "Oh, I could've done it better than him; they should've cast me."