Do You Have to Audition for Dancing with the Stars
Yes, both celebrity contestants and professional dancers typically go through an audition process to appear on Dancing with the Stars. The show, produced by BBC Studios and distributed by Disney Platform Distribution, requires applicants to submit video auditions, attend live callbacks, and pass interviews with casting producers. Casting directors evaluate dance ability, personality, public appeal, and availability for the rehearsal and filming schedule. The exact requirements can vary by season and are influenced by network strategy, production timelines, and partner promotions. For the latest casting calls, applicants are directed to the official ABC casting portal and verified social media channels.
Recent seasons have shown that the casting process is highly competitive, with thousands of applicants for a limited number of spots. The show has historically featured athletes, actors, musicians, and public figures, but participation is not guaranteed even for high-profile individuals. In some cases, casting teams reach out directly to potential celebrities based on media buzz, tour schedules, or promotional partnerships. However, most candidates are still required to complete at least one round of video submission before being invited to a live audition. The process is managed by casting agencies working with the production company and the network.
Audition Requirements for Celebrity Contestants
Celebrity contestants are usually expected to have some form of public recognition, but the show does not require prior professional dance training. Applicants must be available for a multi-week rehearsal period and live tapings, typically held in Los Angeles. The casting team reviews video submissions that demonstrate movement ability, stage presence, and willingness to perform. In certain seasons, the show has prioritized celebrities with large social followings or recent media exposure to boost viewership. Final selections are confirmed after interviews and background checks by the production and network teams.
Professional dancers on the show are also selected through auditions, though their process focuses more on technical skill, partnership versatility, and choreography range. The professional roster is refreshed periodically, and returning dancers must re-audition or be invited based on availability and performance history. Casting directors look for dancers who can adapt to different styles, including Latin, ballroom, jazz, and contemporary routines. Physical fitness, reliability, and the ability to work under tight deadlines are key factors. The professional lineup is announced closer to each season premiere, often alongside the celebrity cast reveal.
How the Audition Process Works in Practice
The audition process usually begins with an open call or online submission window announced through official channels. Applicants upload video footage that meets specific length and format requirements outlined by the casting team. In some cases, the show hosts regional workshops or dance camps where hopefuls can be evaluated in person by producers. Live callbacks may involve group choreography sessions, solo performances, and interviews with casting directors. The timeline from initial submission to final confirmation can span several months, depending on the season schedule.
Once selected, celebrities and professionals enter a structured rehearsal program that includes choreography sessions, costume fittings, and rehearsals with judges and mentors. The show follows a weekly elimination format, with scores from judges and audience votes determining which couples remain. Production schedules are intensive, often requiring travel, rehearsals, and tapings over a compressed period. The season finale is typically filmed after several weeks of competition, with the winner determined by a combination of judges' scores and public votes. For more details on the show format and casting history, you can visit the official ABC page for Dancing with the Stars and the BBC Studios production overview.
