Actors, Stop Checking “Any Role” If You Don’t Actually Mean It

by Chris Peterson

A Reddit thread making the rounds in theatre circles asked a question that I imagine has sent many community theatre directors into a quiet spiral over lukewarm coffee: What do you do when actors check the “I’ll accept any role” box, verbally accept a part, and then suddenly develop a deep spiritual objection to being in the ensemble?

In the post, the director said four actors accepted roles before backing out, despite marking that they would take any role.

And look, I am going to say this as gently as I can, which is to say not very gently:

If you say you will accept any role, then you need to accept any role.

This should not be complicated. The words are right there. Any. Role.

Now, obviously, life happens. No production benefits from someone being trapped in a show they genuinely cannot do. But that is not what we are really talking about, is it?

We are talking about actors who check “any role” because they think it makes them look flexible, gracious, and easy to cast, when what they actually mean is, “I will accept any role that still allows me to post a dramatic rehearsal selfie with a caption about the journey.”

That is not the same thing.

And yes, I understand the psychology. Actors worry that if they only list the roles they actually want, directors will think they are difficult. But here is the thing: being honest about what you want is not difficult. Saying yes to everything and then backing out because you were cast as Townsperson Number Three is what makes people difficult.

Directors are not casting in a vacuum. They are solving a very specific, very fragile puzzle made of talent, availability, vocal ranges, dance ability, and chemistry. When you tell me you will accept any role, I use that information. I may even pass on someone else because I believe you meant what you wrote.

Wild concept, I know.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with auditioning only for certain roles. Truly. If you only want the lead, say that. If you are not interested in ensemble, say that. You may not get cast, but at least everyone knows what they are working with.

What you should not do is check “any role” as a little audition form strategy and then act personally wounded when the director takes you at your word.

Because when you say any role, directors believe you. And honestly, they should be able to.