Claire Cassidy has been appointed as Emil Dale's new Industry Liaison, strengthening the drama school's commitment to connecting graduating students with leading casting professionals, agents and opportunities across the theatre industry.
Claire brings extensive experience in professional casting, having worked with Debbie O’Brien Casting and Harry Blumenau Casting, as well as continuing her work with Matilda the Musical, auditioning and training young performers for its West End and touring productions.
Alongside her casting career, Claire has an impressive West End performance background, with credits including Les Misérables, Oliver! and Mamma Mia!. This combination of experience on both sides of the audition table gives her a valuable understanding of what today’s performers need to succeed in an increasingly competitive industry.
In her new role, Claire will work closely with Emil Dale graduating BA (Hons) Musical Theatre students, helping them navigate the transition from professional training into employment, representation and the wider theatre industry.
A significant programme of industry engagement is already taking shape, with opportunities for students to meet, audition for and learn directly from casting professionals and leading theatrical agencies.
The programme includes engagement with Debbie O’Brien Casting, David Grindrod Casting, Gavin Barker Associates, Winterson’s and Collective Agents, alongside mock audition opportunities involving the casting teams for Cameron Mackintosh productions, Pippa Ailion Casting, and New Adventures.
Claire will also play a central role in developing industry relationships around the Academy’s major graduating events, including its London Agent Panel Day at Pineapple Dance Studios, London Agent and Industry Showcase at the Bloomsbury Theatre in the West End, and forthcoming full scale productions of Catch Me If You Can and Into the Woods.
These initiatives will give graduating students valuable opportunities to demonstrate their work, receive professional feedback and begin building relationships with casting teams and agents before completing their training.
Emil Dale, Founder of Emil Dale Academy, said:
“Claire brings genuine casting experience, an understanding of what happens on the other side of the audition table and relationships that can make a real difference to our graduates. I’m absolutely delighted that she’s joining us.”
Claire’s appointment reflects Emil Dale Academy’s continued investment in ensuring that its graduates leave not only as accomplished performers, but as informed, prepared and connected young professionals ready to take their next steps into the industry.
We are delighted to welcome Claire to Emil Dale.
