Diakeim Lyles, Casting Director

Commercial Improvisation

A native New Yorker, Diakeim began his career in the business attending LaGuardia HS of the Performing Arts. He continued studying acting with a focus on filmmaking, and spent a year abroad at Middlesex University in London via SUNY Binghamton’s BFA program.He completed a stage manager/PA apprenticeship at the Powerhouse Theater at Vassar College, working with prominent actors like Frances McDormand and Sam Rockwell. His diverse training led him to pursue film/TV casting on commercials and several independent films, including The Hebrew Hammer and Death of Dynasty. Diakeim Lyles has been a commercial casting for the last 20+ years and now works independently with various casting houses in the New York area including: Brooke Thomas Casting, Envision Studios, House Casting, Allison Twardziak Casting, Liz Lewis Casting to name a few. He is also a private virtual acting coach and teaches commercial audition classes. Actors respond to his outgoing personality making them feel relaxed during auditions so that clients always get their best performance. He loves casting.

Testimonials

"Hey Diakeim, I can't thank you enough for teaching an incredible class! I learned so much and was able to immediately apply the techniques you taught and key information you shared in my auditions and callbacks while taking your class. You are extremely passionate about teaching and helping actors become better/smarter performers. If more Casting Directors cared as much as you do more actors would always be empowered regardless of booking the commercial or not. The most helpful exercise for me was the Lottery Ticket Commercial of making subtle acting choices, using your eyes to express feeling. The side coaching you provided during our on-camera performances were phenomenal and spot on!"
SHEILA SMILEY
ACTOR/STUDENT