The week before the cast list is going to be posted, there’s an important reminder to give.
Give it often. Give it over and over again.
The reminder is this:
Some of you will be overjoyed. Some of you will be heartbroken. All of you will be mostly thinking about yourselves. (That’s the nature of the teenage brain…though ongoing experience tells me that’s the nature of the adult brain, too.)
Everyone should take a moment after the cast list is posted to practice intentional empathy.
Hold space for those who are disappointed. Feel joy for the people who are thrilled. Even, especially, if they got the role you were dreaming of.
Most importantly, remember that your classmates and friends hold value in your life, and you hold value in theirs. Take time to nurture those connections and don’t let any momentary casting drama get in the way.
After the cast list comes out is too late. Remind them before.