There does seem to be 2 schools of thought here , and I will admit that as an actor , getting a personal call from the director does give it a nice respectful  touch and probably make a new auditioner more likely to return , but I have directed twice both small casts , and I took that appraoch and called everyone regardless . The first time was ok , but the second when I had to turn down people I knew , it did become a bit awkward . I think some thought they were being cast at first ( I could've waited more before making those calls ) and a couple that knew me well began to grill me as to why they weren't cast ( though they been involved in community theater longer then I , and know it had nothing to do with their talent , our friendships , etc. )

 

I like the idea of having the producer or someone like that do it , it keeps it personal and eliminates the awkwardness , I'll do that or send a personal e-mail in future , no more "sorry but .. " calls for me .