szereposztás

Szereposztás is the process of assigning actors to roles in a performance, from theatre to film and television. The term encompasses both the planning of which actor plays each character and the actual selection process. It relies on artistic aims, practical constraints, and often collaborative decisions among the director, casting director, producers, and, sometimes, writers.

In practice, casting involves auditions, callbacks, and sometimes chemistry tests. Casting directors coordinate auditions, assess suitability for each role, and seek a cohesive ensemble. Decisions consider the character's requirements (age, appearance, voice, skills), the actors' availability and market status, budget, and scheduling. Open auditions may welcome newcomers; targeted casting may emphasize established performers.

The outcome is a szereposztás: a cast list that matches characters to performers, frequently including understudies and alternates for live productions. In theatre, szereposztás can evolve during previews or the run, while in filmed media changes can occur after principal photography due to creative shifts or logistic reasons.

Today, inclusive casting and non-discrimination are increasingly emphasized, aiming to reflect diversity and broaden access. Producers also weigh union guidelines and contract terms. Understudies and rehearsals are planned to ensure performances even if principal actors are unavailable.

Within Hungarian usage, szereposztás is a standard term across performing arts and can be used metaphorically to describe the allocation of tasks or roles within a project.