<P>Casting is a crucial creative element of any production - and yet the craft and skills needed to put together a successful and exciting cast are often overlooked. <I>The Casting Handbook</I> explains the casting process from beginning to end and covers everything producers and directors needs to know ¿ as well as proving a fascinating and illuminating read for actors. The book explores:</P><UL><LI>how to prepare a breakdown</LI><LI>where to source actors</LI><LI>how to prepare for a casting session</LI><LI>how to make casting decisions</LI><LI>how a cast is put together</LI><LI>how deals are done</LI><LI>ethics and the law, with special reference to casting children</LI><LI>how a casting director contributes to the initial development of the script</LI><LI>how the casting works from fringe theatre to Hollywood blockbusters</LI></UL><P><I>The Casting Handbook</I> considers actors¿, producers¿, agents¿ and directors¿ relationship with a casting director, the day to day work that is ca