Interview with Jasmine Bowen
1. How are immersive theatre productions changing the qualities casting directors look for in stage actors?
Immersive productions require actors who can react and improvise in real time while maintaining a genuine connection with audiences up close. It’s no longer just about playing to the back of the theatre. It’s about holding character while interacting naturally with the audience face-to-face. Flexibility and comfort with improvisation matter a lot.
Insight:
Immersive theatre shifts the performer’s focus from projection to presence. Casting directors now prioritise:
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Actors who can improvise authentically
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Strong audience awareness
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Emotional stamina and quick adaptability
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Comfort in non-traditional spaces (museums, historic sites, rooms without a stage)
This hybrid of acting + interactive performance is becoming a defining skillset for modern stage actors.
2. What role does digital presence (e.g., video reels, virtual auditions) now play in theatre casting?
It’s huge now. Reels, shorts, and even vlogs now allow actors to be seen from anywhere. Virtual auditions have made the process faster and far more accessible. A strong digital presence now opens doors that were once only available to those who could audition in person.
Insight:
Digital presence has become a must-have, not a bonus. Directors increasingly expect actors to have:
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A clear, well-produced video reel
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Clips that show personality, not just performance
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Virtual audition readiness
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Online profiles on major casting platforms
Accessibility has widened the talent pool while significantly speeding up casting timelines.
3. Are traditional theatre casting calls adapting to attract younger or more global talent?
Yes, many theatres now combine in-person auditions with online submissions, which makes it easier for younger actors or those outside major theatre hubs to get noticed. It’s a great way to connect with a broader, more diverse range of talent.
Insight:
Hybrid casting is now the norm. This shift allows theatres to:
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Discover new regional and international talent
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Reduce barriers for young performers
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Build more diverse casts
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Make auditions more equitable
Theatres that embrace hybrid systems are rapidly expanding their creative reach.
4. How do you balance historical authenticity with diversity and modern representation?
Theatre can respect the time period while still reflecting today’s values. Costumes and settings might stay true to history, but casting can be more inclusive. It’s about telling old stories in ways that feel relevant and open to everyone. We also focus on the stories that are in danger of being forgotten or the stories that are often untold. We want to tell everyone's story, not just the currently well known ones.
Insight:
Jasmine champions a dual approach:
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Historical accuracy in production design
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Modern inclusivity in casting and storytelling
Her mission includes reviving underrepresented histories and creating space for voices that traditional theatre has often overlooked.
5. What upcoming trends in live theatre do you think will redefine audience interaction by 2026?
By 2026, we’re likely to see technology transform how audiences experience theatre. From interactive storytelling and augmented reality to shows where the audience can actually shape what happens on stage. This will make performances more engaging and help attract new generations by bringing the audience and actors closer together in the experience.
Insight:
The future of theatre blends old-world storytelling with next-gen interactivity. Key trends include:
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Augmented reality layers in live shows
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Audience-controlled narrative branches
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Hybrid digital/physical characters or environments
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Venue-specific experiences that adapt to each location
This shift is designed to connect with younger, tech-savvy audiences who expect active participation.
Conclusion
Jasmine Bowen’s work proves that immersive theatre is not just entertainment — it’s a bridge between history, community, and modern storytelling. As technology reshapes audience expectations and global casting becomes more accessible, the actors who thrive will be those who embrace adaptability, digital fluency, and deep human connection. In 2026 and beyond, stage performance is more interactive, inclusive, and creatively boundary-pushing than ever.
