Held auditions the other night for play have always dreamed of directing "The Lion in Winter". Thought I might have the makings of good/adequate cast (HOPE springs eternal!) then this new guy reads who is soooo incredibly perfect for the role of Henry it was stunning - energy, accent, intent, truthfullness, experience, etc.. Problem is - by comparison all other possible cast members look pathetically weak and amateurish. This IS community theatre so everyone (in theory) should have a chance to work if at all possible. Having this guy do Henry might force the other actors to work harder - but - what if they just don't have what it takes? Am concerned it will not do jusice to this beautifully written play to have one actor doing a "star turn" and the rest appear to be so weak by contrast. Most importantly, the play itself may suffer. Do I settle for the banal or an off-balance production?
Any ideas, suggestions very much welcomed!

Thanks!

This is a no brainer. Cast the great actor. I can't understand why you would consider any other option. You want the show to be worse so the other actors don't look as bad? I don't get that at all.

Serafina whadya thinkin!   Grab this guy if he's that good!    He can only make everyone else around him better.    As everone's more or less stated this a no brainer.   Call the guy now if you haven't already and appologize to him for getting back to him so late.