cattle call

English

Pronunciation

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Noun

cattle call (plural cattle calls)

1. (idiomatic, performing arts) An audition which is open to the public and thus draws a large number of applicants, many of whom are inexperienced.
   • 2016, Thomas S. Hischak, Theatre as Human Action, Rowman & Littlefield, →ISBN, page 108:

     The other extreme is a cattle call audition, when dozens or even hundreds of performers are auditioned in groups, only getting a chance to speak a few lines, sing a few bars, or dance a few steps.

   • 2025 January 31, Ross Douthat, “Steve Bannon on ‘Broligarchs’ vs. Populism”, in The New York Times‎, →ISSN:

     And to what extent is there a world beyond it? Is there going to be a moment where populism needs a new leader and you’re back to that cattle call in New Hampshire looking at different opportunities?

Related terms

• casting call