Laura Donnelly: A Leading Force in UK Casting

Laura Donnelly is a distinguished casting director with over two decades of experience across theatre, television, and film. Her keen eye for talent and dedication to the arts have significantly shaped the casting landscape in the UK and beyond.

Early Life and Education

Born in Glasgow, Scotland, Laura grew up in the western suburb of Jordanhill. Her passion for the performing arts was evident from a young age, inspiring her to pursue studies in Film, Television, and Theatre at Glasgow University. This foundation led to her successful career in casting, where she has become a leading figure in the industry.

Professional Journey

Laura’s career highlights include her tenure as Casting Director at the National Theatre of Scotland from 2012 to 2022, where she played a pivotal role in assembling casts for acclaimed productions. Since transitioning to freelance casting, Laura has continued to work on diverse projects across the UK and internationally, bringing her expertise to a variety of formats. She is represented by Jess Alford at United Agents.

Notable Projects

Laura’s impressive portfolio spans theatre, television, and film:

  • Theatre: Her casting credits include The Winter’s Tale, Glory On Earth, Rhinoceros, Twelfth Night, and The Duchess of Malfi, demonstrating her versatility and deep understanding of the art form.

  • Television: Laura has worked on projects such as Murder Island (2021) for Channel 4 and STV Studios and Pramface, showcasing her adaptability to various genres and formats.

Contributions to Acting Coach Scotland

Laura Donnelly is a regular industry guest at Acting Coach Scotland (ACS), where she shares her wealth of knowledge with aspiring actors. She holds workshops for ACS students on their full-time programmes, offering invaluable insights into the casting process and equipping them with the tools to navigate the competitive industry. Her sessions are a highlight for students, providing a rare opportunity to learn from one of the UK’s leading casting professionals.

Professional Affiliations

Laura is a full member of the Casting Directors' Guild of Great Britain & Ireland (CDG) and the International Casting Directors Association (ICDA). These affiliations underscore her commitment to upholding high industry standards and ethical casting practices.

Contact Information

For professional inquiries, Laura can be reached through her representation at United Agents:

  • Agent: Jess Alford

  • Email: jalford@unitedagents.co.uk

  • Phone: +44 (0)20 3214 0800

Laura Donnelly’s enduring dedication to the arts and her exceptional talent for identifying and nurturing performers continue to make her a vital force in the entertainment industry. Her contributions to ACS and her work across theatre, television, and film leave a lasting impact on the next generation of actors.