get a callback

Meaning

To be invited back for a second audition or interview after passing the first round. In the entertainment industry, it means the casting directors liked your initial performance and want to see you again.

Examples

• She was thrilled to get a callback for the lead role in the new musical.

  She was thrilled to get a callback for the lead role in the new musical.

• I did my best at the audition, so now I'm just waiting to see if I get a callback.

  I did my best at the audition, so now I'm just waiting to see if I get a callback.

• After three rounds of auditions, he finally got a callback from the director.

  After three rounds of auditions, he finally got a callback from the director.

• If you don't get a callback this time, don't worry—there are plenty of other roles.

  If you don't get a callback this time, don't worry—there are plenty of other roles.

• Did you get a callback for that commercial you auditioned for last Tuesday?

  Did you get a callback for that commercial you auditioned for last Tuesday?

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I got a call back to the audition.

  ✓ I got a callback for the audition.

  Use the preposition 'for' to specify the role or audition you are being called back for, rather than 'to'.

• ✗ The director made a callback to me.

  ✓ I got a callback from the director.

  From the actor's perspective, we use the verb 'get' or 'receive' a callback, while the casting team 'gives' or 'sends' a callback.

Related Expressions

Practice

• I really hope I ___ for the TV show; I felt so good about my audition.

  💡 To be invited to the next round of auditions.

  Show answer

  get a callback

• She didn't ___ for the play, but she's already looking for her next opportunity.

  💡 Receive an invitation for a second audition.

  Show answer

  get a callback