The phrase "cattle call" refers to a mass audition or casting where many actors are called in to showcase their skills. Interestingly, the pronunciation of "cattle call" does not match its spelling. The word is pronounced as [kædəl kɔl], with the stress on the first syllable. The spelling may have been influenced by the word "cattle," but the actual origin of the phrase is unclear. Nonetheless, this term is commonly used in the entertainment industry, where auditions are often compared to herding cattle.
Cattle call refers to a casting process in the entertainment industry where hundreds or even thousands of people are gathered together for auditions or open call auditions. The term "cattle call" is derived from the practice of herding cattle, where a large group of animals is grouped together for sorting or selling. In the context of auditions, it signifies the mass gathering and treatment of individuals like a herd of cattle.
During a cattle call, aspiring actors, singers, or performers are invited to present their talents to a group of casting directors or producers. It often involves a large venue such as a theater or convention center where participants can showcase their abilities. The selection process usually involves a brief audition or performance during which individuals display their skills in front of the panel. Due to the sheer volume of participants, the casting directors often have limited time to review each person, making it a highly competitive and time-constrained process.
The term "cattle call" can also be used metaphorically to describe any situation where a large group of people is gathered together in a crowded and hasty manner. It implies a lack of individual attention or consideration due to the scale of the event.
The term "cattle call" originates from the world of theater and refers to a casting technique for auditions. In the early 20th century, when filmmakers and theater directors were looking to cast a large number of extras or performers, they would often hold auditions in large open spaces. To attract as many potential candidates as possible, they would announce the auditions through mass advertising or announcements, often accompanied by loudspeakers or posters. This process led to the comparison with cattle being called in from a field, where many individuals gather without any specific selection criteria. Hence, the term "cattle call" stuck and became synonymous with open auditions where a large number of people are invited, often without prior screening. Over time, the term has extended beyond the realm of auditions to denote any situation where a large group of people is summoned without much consideration for individual merits or qualifications.