Casting Conversations: Acting & Casting Forum

The Irish Film & Television Academy (IFTA) is delighted to present the second annual Casting Conversations forum, a unique gathering of casting directors and actors from across Ireland, north and south, taking place on Thursday 14th November at 6pm at the Light House Cinema, Dublin. Followed by Networking & Drinks Reception, proudly supported by Tanqueray.

This event offers an invaluable opportunity for actors, casting directors, agents, and industry professionals to gain deep insights into the ever-evolving casting landscape in Ireland. Join us for an engaging evening featuring panels that explore the critical roles of casting directors and the actors they bring to the screen. Our panelists will discuss their experiences, and share insights into key elements of the actors’ journey including the audition process; techniques; the selection process; working with Agents, and more.  

The evening’s two panels will be moderated by Louise Kiely (Emmy-nominated Casting Director of The Banshees of Inisherin and Normal People) and Darren Thornton (director of the upcoming Four Mothers, A Date for Mad Mary). 

Panelists at the forum include actors Jason O’Mara (IFTA winner, The Siege of Jadotville, The Man in the High Castle), Nora-Jane Noone (IFTA nominee, Wildfire, The Magdalene Sisters), Hilda Fay (IFTA nominee, House of Guinness, The Woman in the Wall) and Kwaku Fortune (IFTA nominee, Twig, Hidden Assets); and casting directors Ros Hubbard (Angela’s Ashes, The Commitments), Katy Moylan-Shorten (Moonhaven), Emma Gunnery (Kathleen is Here, Oddity) and Áine O’Sullivan (The End, Mother Mary).

The first panel will see a number of Irish casting directors discuss their key role in bringing stories to life. They will touch upon the relationship between actors and casting directors, share key advice for actors seeking a better understanding of the casting process, and explore how casting professionals can support, nurture and discover breakthrough talent.

The second panel will feature a number of established Irish screen actors discussing their experience of the casting process, how they have navigated it early on in their careers, and developed strong relationships with casting directors. They will share personal insights into the challenges and triumphs involved and provide valuable perspectives on the relationship between actors and casting directors.