In 2018, casting directors for Netflix searched across the United States and internationally for fresh talent to bring the world of Hawkins to new audiences. The Stranger Things 2018 audition cycle was a high-profile search that generated significant buzz among aspiring actors and industry watchers.
Because the series was still building its fanbase, the 2018 open calls emphasized versatility, authentic Midwestern demeanor, and physical readiness for emotional and intense scenes. This overview outlines how those open calls shaped the next phase of the show.
| Search Region | Primary Audition Cities | Submission Method | Key Traits Sought |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | Atlanta, Georgia; Chicago, Illinois; Los Angeles, California; New York City, New York | Online through Backstage and official channels | Naturalism, emotional availability, ability to take direction |
| International | London, United Kingdom; Toronto, Canada; Sydney, Australia | Regional casting partners and online submissions | Accent flexibility, screen presence, callback readiness |
| Role Focus | Multiple age groups and background characters | Self-tape or in-person options where available | Quick transitions between comedy, horror, and heartfelt moments |
| Timeline | Early announcements in mid-2018, extended windows in major hubs | Deadline-driven submissions with callback scheduling | Availability for table reads and on-set tests |
Regional Audition Strategies
How Open Calls Were Organized in 2018
Regional open calls in 2018 were designed to discover talent close to the production’s geographic needs, with casting teams visiting cities known for strong acting communities. These targeted sessions helped identify performers who could embody the grounded, naturalistic tone of the series while reflecting the specific cultural texture of each region.
Actors were often asked to perform cold reads and improv exercises that tested adaptability, listening skills, and comfort with genre material, including horror elements and emotional vulnerability in a single take.
Role Requirements and Expectations
What the Show Looked for in New Talent
Beyond specific character breakdowns, the production prioritized performers who could authentically react to practical effects, stunts, and emotional direction under pressure. Age range, physical coordination, and the ability to rehearse consistently were critical factors during callbacks.
Casting notes frequently mentioned the importance of finding actors who could shift between normal kid behavior and moments of intense fear or wonder, ensuring that the young cast members felt believable within the show’s heightened reality.
Submission Guidelines and Formats
Tips for a Strong Audition Submission
Submitting in 2018 typically involved uploading self-tape auditions through platforms like Backstage or via regional partners, with clear instructions on slate, sides, and formatting. Strong submissions featured clean audio, neutral backgrounds, and confident, story-focused choices that highlighted range within a short time frame.
Producers encouraged actors to follow exact formatting rules, avoid filters or heavy editing, and respect strict deadlines, which kept the review process efficient and allowed more talent to be seen.
Callback and On-Screen Testing
What Happened After the Initial Submission
Actors who progressed past initial screenings were invited to live auditions or on-set tests, where they read with other candidates and took direction from casting directors working closely with the showrunner. These sessions helped producers assess chemistry, timing, and the ability to maintain continuity across extended shooting schedules.
On-set tests often included working with practical effects, costume fittings, and adjustments to blocking, giving networks confidence that the chosen actors could handle the physical and emotional demands of filming multiple episodes in sequence.
Key Takeaways for Actors
- Target cities with announced open calls and align submissions with specific role breakdowns.
- Prepare for cold reads, improv exercises, and genre-specific emotional shifts during auditions.
- Follow submission guidelines precisely, including slate, tape quality, and formatting rules.
- Confirm availability for callbacks and on-set tests, which often include costume fittings and practical effect rehearsals.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which cities hosted official Stranger Things 2018 auditions?
Major hubs such as Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City, London, Toronto, and Sydney hosted open casting calls and regional sessions coordinated with Netflix and third-party casting directors.
How were submissions accepted for the 2018 open calls?
Most submissions were handled through online platforms like Backstage, with precise formatting rules for self-tape auditions, slate requirements, and strict deadlines for each region and role type.
What specific skills did casting teams focus on during callbacks?
They prioritized emotional range, quick adaptation to direction, comfort with horror and comedy tones, and the ability to maintain continuity when performing with child and adult co-stars over multiple shooting days.
Were international actors encouraged to audition in 2018?
Yes, international casting partners actively sought talent in cities like London, Toronto, and Sydney, looking for accent flexibility and strong screen presence that could match the show’s global appeal.