Welcome to Evolution Casting.
We specialise in casting for both stage and screen. Based in so-called Australia, we are on a mission to revolutionise the world of casting by seamlessly merging our expertise in casting, inclusion, and equity. Recognising the pivotal role that casting plays in bringing a project to life, we are dedicated to delivering casting experiences that not only embrace inclusivity and foster positive representation but also captivates and excites audiences.
At Evolution Casting, we approach casting as a form of design and dramaturgy, crucial in the success of any project.
Our approach is tailored for each project, centering around three casting principles:
Evolution Casting was founded by Casting Director, Rhys Velasquez, CGA
Rhys Velasquez (they/them/she) is an artist, advocate and award-winning casting director, known for their passion and expertise in creating a more inclusive and equitable performing arts industry. Rhys began their professional journey studying musical theatre at the Arts Academy in Ballarat, graduating in 2013.
Starting their career as a performer and choreographer, Rhys has worked around the globe, performing in major commercial productions through to independent theatre, cabaret and live music. Career highlights include Swing/Dance Captain in Shrek the Musical (GFO), Agwe in Once on This Island (Altitude Theatre); Swing/Dance Captain & Associate Choreographer for Paw Patrol Live (Nickelodeon/Life Like Touring) as well as credits with The Production Company, StageArt and many more.
Their enthusiasm for casting began at a young age when they spent countless hours scrapbooking images of their favourite musicals and television shows and casting their friends in roles that best suited their talents. It was during their studies they discovered casting was a real profession. They knew then that casting was where they would eventually end up.
Rhys founded Evolution Casting in 2021 to become a positive force of change in the performing arts industry and beyond. Since its launch, Evolution Casting has fast become a celebrated industry-shaker, known for creating exciting and contemporary casting designs. In 2023, Rhys won the CGA Award for Best Casting in a Theatre Production for their work on Choir Boy (NTofP). Rhys’ other casting credits include work with Belvoir, Hayes Theatre Co, Griffin Theatre Company, Darlinghurst Theatre Company, Antipodes Theatre Company, Joshua Robson Productions and many more.
Rhys is also the Casting Manager for Malthouse Theatre and is a proud member of the Casting Guild of Australia (CGA). They are a founding board member of Stage A Change and passionate about mentoring and fostering the next generation of performers and creatives.
Rhys is passionate about creating an industry that is a source of pride for all and hopes to one day expand their expertise into education, programming and artistic direction.
For a full list of casting credits, visit the OUR WORK page.
