AACTA in collaboration with Casting Networks and the Casting Guild of Australia (CGA) has announced the launch of a pioneering national casting initiative tailored for the youth.
This initiative is aimed at recognising and nurturing budding talent in the nation and offering them a platform to achieve their ambitions in the entertainment sector.
Designed exclusively for Australian residents between the ages of 13 to 18, the program promises significant exposure. Selected finalists will be graced with an opportunity to head to the Gold Coast. Here, they will undergo workshops and receive mentorship under the guidance of prominent casting directors like Thea McLeod, Anousha Zarkesh, and Nicki Barrett.
Adding to the perks, each finalist will be gifted a six-month Casting Networks Premium membership. Furthermore, there’s a provision for a headshot session at the Casting Networks pop-up studio located at HOTA on the Gold Coast.
The spotlight shines on the grand prize winner, who will be awarded a $10,000 Flight Centre voucher coupled with $2,500 cash for travel assistance. This prize will facilitate their journey to the US. The winner’s itinerary includes a meeting with an esteemed international casting director, networking sessions with industry experts, and a week-long workshop at the prestigious Howard Fine Acting Studio in Los Angeles.
Back home, they will gain exclusive access to The Studio by Casting Networks in Sydney for an entire year. This will present further opportunities to liaise with local casting directors and agents for potential representation.
The judging panel for this initiative consists of industry stalwarts, including McLeod, Zarkesh, Barrett, Liz Mullane, and renowned actors Claudia Karvan and Mark Coles Smith. Notably, Karvan and Smith both made their mark in the entertainment world during their teenage years.
“AACTA Young Stars: National Youth Casting Call is not just a casting initiative; it’s a beacon of hope and opportunity for young, aspiring actors across Australia,”
commented AACTA CEO Damian Trewhella. He further added,
“It’s imperative to empower and support the next generation of artists in the entertainment industry.” This sentiment resonates with Claudia Karvan, one of the judges.
Thea McLeod, who also holds the position of president at the CGA, expressed her enthusiasm.
“As casting directors, we are continually thrilled by the prospect of unearthing fresh talent from all corners of our country. AACTA Youth Stars offers an extraordinary platform for young actors to showcase their skills and capture the attention of casting directors.
By supporting budding actors on their journey within the entertainment industry, we believe that this platform provides an incredible opportunity for young actors to broaden their horizons both in Australia and internationally.”
Prospective participants can now register their interest at aacta.org. The closing date for submissions is November 6, 5pm AEDT.
