Spotlightuk

On this big episode of the Spotlight Podcast, we discuss safety, harassment and bullying in our industry. Joining us, we have Maureen Beattie, performer and President of Equity, Wendy Spon, CDG and former Head of Casting for the National Theatre, and Ita O'Brien, Intimacy and Movement Coordinator who has recently worked on Gentleman Jack and Sex Education for Netflix.  This is such a huge topic for the industry, and we talk about a variety of layers within it - from the nature of acting as a profession, to the culture on set and in the audition room, to wider concerns around what is asked for and when, as well as the more detailed aspects of performing an intimate scene.  We want to warn listeners that some potentially triggering language is used in this podcast.  Take a look here for more information on the discussion: Equity's Safe Spaces Campaign Equity's Agenda for Change report Equity's Harassment Helpline Ita O'Brien's Intimacy on Set Guidelines If you have questions about this podcast, drop us

In this episode of the Spotlight podcast, we're joined by casting director Verity Naughton, CDG. We talk all about young performer casting, including... Headshots, profiles and what you should and should not include on your CV; How casting works, Verity's process and what stands out to her; Lots of practical tips and hints for preparing for your next audition; What's expected in the audition room - what to wear, knowing your lines, and lots more; Other advice for navigating the industry more broadly. It's a super practical episode with tonnes of advice for performers and their parents alike. For much more information for younger performers, take a look at our website.  Got more questions you want answered in an upcoming episode? Send them to questions@spotlight.com. 

Happy Pride Month! In this special episode, we talk to filmmaker Simon Wegrzyn on telling LGBTQ+ stories on screen. Simon talks us through his experience as an actor and director, and we delve into some of the pressing issues facing performers who are also members of the LGBTQ+ community.  Simon mentions his website in the podcast, as well as the resource Film Freeway. You can watch his film Hold Hands or Hide on Amazon Prime.  For more discussions about diversity and inclusivity in the industry, take a look at our website. 

Spotlight talks to Equity's Addam Merali-Younger on mental health support for performers. Addam is Equity's Bullying, Harassment and Mental Health Assistant. He mans the Equity hotline, where he answers performer concerns.  If you are looking for support, take a look at Equity's mental health and wellness resources online, or call Addam on the Bullying and Harassment Helpline on 020 7670 0268, or send an email to harassment@equity.org.uk. Details about the drop in sessions at the Actor's Centre are here. You can also access wellbeing support via ArtsMinds, or the Samaritans on 116 123.  Addam also mentions the Safe Spaces Campaign, and the Affirmation being promoted by Equity for use in all rehearsals or production spaces.  Keep an eye out on our website for more mental health information and advice specifically for actors this Mental Health Awareness Week. 

This episode of the Spotlight podcast, we talk to Kerry Ryan, founder of Write Like A Grrrl, on how to start writing. A note: it's actually triple-r, not double-r as stated in the intro! Kerry talks to us about overcoming writing obstacles, how to practically get started, developing character and dialogue, when to get feedback, and loads more. We also answer some of your questions - thank you to everyone who sent questions in! Read more of our best writing advice, or check out all of our advice for getting started in the entertainment industry, as well as all of our news and advice. If you want to ask a question for a future episode, drop us an email at questions@spotlight.com. Connect with us on Twitter @SpotlightUk or @christinacare.     

In this episode of the Spotlight Podcast we talk to Nina Zendejas, an international voice coach specialising in accent and dialect, and native to the United States. Currently working as the Head of Voice at Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts (MT) in London, she is also a voice-over artist (represented by Wisebuddah), and freelance production coach. Nina talks to us all about experimenting and creating characters with your voice, dealing with accent changes (especially for an audition!), improving your Received Pronunciation and General American accents, and how to get the most out of your voice long term.   It's a super fun and practical episode with a lot of great information and some exercises you can try yourself at home. Take a listen! Find more great info on voice, and for all other advice to do with mastering your acting craft and navigating the industry, take a look at our News & Advice. 

This episode we are talking all about Commercial Castings. Joining us is Alex Wheeler, who works at the award-winning Martin Gibbons Casting. We talk about how commercial projects come about, the timescales behind them, some real no-nos for the audition room and even the controversial topic of 'pencilling'... Take a listen!  Find lots more about auditions on our site, and lots more advice from casting professionals. 

In this episode of the Spotlight Podcast, we talk to Sarah Thurstan, a performer and co-founder of Performance Link. She took over the company in 2000 and now runs it herself alongside acting work. Sarah talks to us about how she figured out the essential skills actors are taught that they can pass on to others, and how having a side hustle helps with security as an actor in the long run.  You can read more about Performance Link online, and see more great advice for making the most of your career in the performing arts on our site. 

The PappyShow talk to us about their upcoming run at the VAULT Festival, their unique approach to theatre-making, the importance of safety, inclusivity and diversity in their work, and how to navigate an industry where creativity isn't always paid for... This episode features Kane Husbands, Sam Hardie, Eddie-Joe Robinson, Ursula Mohan, and Aaron Gordon. They perform, create and share roles across their three shows, BOYS, GIRLS and CARE. The PappyShow create ensemble-led devised theatre work. They offer workshops and training in physical theatre, using this to devise and create work. In their own words: "We believe that having a space to play, devise and fail improves us as performers and informs the way we approach our work." If you're interested in seeing their fantastic work, you can book tickets here. Read more advice about making work for yourself, and more information about theatre in particular. For more industry info, tips and advice, check out www.spotlight.com/news-and-advice    

In this episode of the Spotlight podcast, we talk to the inimitable Esta Charkham. Esta has been an agent, a casting director, an actress, a TV producer and teacher for many years. Her work with young people is exceptional. In this episode of the podcast, we talk through all the different hats Esta has worn in her career, how you can use your skills across industry disciplines, the best skills to cultivate, how to give yourself the best shot at representation and in the industry more broadly, as well as the importance of passion to fuel you. It's all about having a long and happy career! Read more advice about starting out in this tough biz, and more information for young performers specifically. For more industry info, tips and advice, check out www.spotlight.com/news-and-advice

Happy New Year! In this mini episode of the Spotlight podcast, we discuss all the essentials for any actor looking to inject some new life into their career. Spotlight's Performer Careers Consultant Emma Dyson brings her wealth of experience in guiding and advising actors in making good career choices, to help us answer this question. We cover headshots, showreels, making the most of your acting CV, setting goals and understanding your Unique Selling Point. Essential for any actor either new or returning to the industry.  Read more advice about starting out in this tough biz, and read more about Emma's one-to-one sessions here.  For more industry info, tips and advice, check out www.spotlight.com/news-and-advice