Donna Morong is a remarkably accomplished and widely respected casting director, whose illustrious career has spanned an impressive quarter of a century, punctuated by a plethora of distinguished achievements and a profound influence on the world of entertainment, earning her a reputation as a master of her craft and a driving force behind the scenes.
New York City, a hub of creativity and artistic expression, served as the backdrop for the inception of her professional journey, where she commenced her career as a casting associate at Simon and Kumin Casting, a prestigious organization renowned for its extensive portfolio of successfully casting numerous Broadway and off-Broadway productions, including the premieres of works by notable playwrights such as Neil Simon, August Wilson, Athol Fugard, and David Rabe, thereby further cementing her reputation as a skilled and accomplished expert in her field.
Donna Morong's tenure at Simon and Kumin Casting presented a unique opportunity for her to refine her expertise and accumulate a wealth of knowledge, as she collaborated with a diverse array of skilled and accomplished professionals within the industry, thereby making a significant contribution to the achievement of numerous productions that have not only captivated the attention of local but also global audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Donna Morong, a highly accomplished and revered casting director, has earned a reputation for her unwavering commitment, profound expertise, and unrelenting passion for her craft. Through her tireless efforts, she has successfully identified and fostered the growth of numerous emerging talents, showcasing her exceptional aptitude for recognizing and nurturing raw ability.
Donna embarked on a professional path, fortunate to be taken under the guidance of the highly accomplished Douglas Aibel, a renowned figure in the industry. This mentorship provided her with the ideal opportunity to refine her skills within the esteemed walls of the prestigious Vineyard Theater.
Donna's illustrious professional odyssey in the realm of casting commenced in Los Angeles under the meticulous guidance of the venerated casting expert, Johanna Ray, where she was entrusted with the responsibility of working on the film "Map of the Human Heart", a pivotal experience that would lay the foundation for her future success. Subsequently, she joined the esteemed Walt Disney Company, specifically the feature film department, under the astute direction of Ilene Starger, where she served as a manager of casting, honing her skills and expertise in the process. When Ms. Starger relocated to New York City, Donna transitioned to work under the visionary leadership of Marcia Ross, a 13-year tenure that would ultimately propel her to the esteemed position of Senior Vice President of Feature Casting for Walt Disney Pictures and Touchstone Pictures. Throughout her prolonged and successful tenure, Donna had the privilege of collaborating closely with high-profile executives, including the likes of Nina Jacobson, Donald Deline, David Hoberman, and David Vogel, fostering a network of influential relationships that would serve as a testament to her remarkable career.
Donna has dedicated herself to a career that has spanned multiple years, marked by her tireless efforts to work closely with independent filmmakers, fostering a spirit of collaboration and camaraderie with a diverse array of esteemed directors.
Among those she has had the privilege of working with are the visionary and unorthodox Quentin Dupieux, whose innovative and thought-provoking films have garnered widespread recognition, including the critically acclaimed "Rubber", a cinematic masterpiece that continues to push the boundaries of the medium.
Additionally, Donna has had the opportunity to work with the talented duo of Hanna Ladoul and Marco La Vida, whose poignant and emotionally charged film "Anywhere with You" has resonated with audiences worldwide, offering a powerful exploration of the human experience.
Furthermore, Donna has also had the pleasure of collaborating with the emerging talent of Mari Walker, whose directorial debut "See You Then" has been met with widespread critical acclaim, earning recognition for its unique storytelling and masterful direction.
Donna, a passionate individual with a genuine interest in nurturing the talents of others, has made it a priority to dedicate a substantial amount of her personal time to mentoring aspiring actors from a wide range of age groups.
This esteemed individual resides in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, where she has the pleasure of sharing a household with her devoted spouse, David. Together, they have nurtured and guided their three children, William, James, and Sarah Morong, within the walls of their Los Angeles abode.