About
Monique Murray
Independent Casting Director
/zɛst/ 1[singular, uncountable] zest (for something) enjoyment and enthusiasm.
Oxford Dictionary
“Zest is Approaching life with excitement and energy; not doing things halfway or half-heartedly; living life as an adventure.” Rhiannon Gallagher
This quote sums up the essence of Zest Casting. We are focused on – and enthusiastic about – every single project we cast. We collaborate creatively; with directors and producers, actors, agents and a multitude of skilled individuals.
Monique Murray is the hands-on owner and casting director of Zest Casting. In January 2024, after 23 years of casting, Monique started casting independently as Zest Casting. Monique and the Zest Casting team have already cast multiple projects for major local and international brands, as well as casting for several feature films.
Since 2001, Monique has cast over 3000 TV commercials, and many Feature Films, short films and Music Videos. She has worked on films with international and local stars, and with award winning directors.
Monique was acting from a young age, and completed an Honours Degree in Drama, along with receiving several other performance qualifications and awards. She was fortunate to find her calling for Casting Directing very soon after starting her professional career in the film industry.
Monique understands what is required for authentic performances, and also what is required for each director’s vision to be fulfilled.
In addition, Monique has the contacts, skills and enthusiasm to make it all happen with a constant fresh eye and with ease!
Monique has lived abroad in various countries (USA, UK, Germany, Australia specifically) and travelled extensively. This experience helps her understanding of the many different people and cultures portrayed in international TV commercials and films. Her extensive general knowledge and “who’s who” contact list means that she is always on the pulse of emerging trends and sourcing just the right talent for each project.
Building lasting and trusting relationships is a key value for Monique and the Zest Casting team. Directors can be assured that their artistic vision will be honoured. Producers know that they can entrust Monique with their casting needs. Clients look to Zest to get their projects cast with creative commitment, from Start to Filmed and Flighting!
The Zest Casting team values every person with whom they engage, from clients to agents, actors, children and the myriad array of skilled talent they find to fill each role.
Monique has been a judge on the International SHOTS AWARDS EMEA 2022 and 2023, and in 2024 has been elected as the Jury Head for the Casting/ Production Design / Styling group.
Monique has also been a judge at the Cape Town Squad International Film Festival 2023 and 2024.
She is also an external adjudicator for graduate-level examinations at a Cape Town Film school.
Zest Casting is powered by a dedicated team of Studio directors and Casting Assistants.
Each member of the team has an enormous love for film, and appreciation of the people on camera and behind the scenes. Several are graduates from film schools, and working professionals in the industry, from directors to actors and people with an eye for detail and tech. The team look forward to seeing you at the studio at an upcoming casting or callback!
