Tag: diversity/inclusivity
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Both Not Half: We Need to Change How We Think about Mixed Heritage Casting
In early 2019 I improvised a comedy video in Punjabi. I shot a few angles and cut it together on my phone. I had zero expectations but, inspired by the likes of JusReign and Guz Khan, I was aware that under the right circumstances it might create opportunity. I tapped ‘post’. It went viral. While the…
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Acting With Dyslexia
Tips for navigating the stage as a dyslexic performer and advice for industry professionals when working with neurodiverse actors. It’s estimated that around 10% of the British population are dyslexic. But that figure leaps dramatically to around a third within the performing arts! Acting, dancing and singing often appeal to those who struggle to express themselves or…
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BFI Flare: The Complexities of LGBTQ+ Casting
Spotlight recently partnered on Casting Case Studies, an event in BFI Flare: London LGBTQ+ Film Festival’s Industry Programme that explored individual experiences of LGBTQ+ casting, the challenges faced by transgender performers, and the ethics of street casting to reflect real-life experiences. The panel on 29th March, hosted by Spotlight’s Emma Dyson, was formed by casting…
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Spotlight at the BFI: Authenticity in Casting
Why Authentic Representation and Lived Experience Matter in Casting On Monday, 15th October 2018, Spotlight held an event in conjunction with the British Film Institute and the Casting Society of America entitled ‘Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing: Authenticity in Casting’ to tackle the question of representation and casting, and how these intersect with authenticity.…
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Don’t Just Be Reasonable: How to Integrate Disabled Performers
Don’t just be “reasonable” says Amelia Cavallo, dissecting the steps you need to consider to create truly inclusive work on stage [In the Equalities Act] there is one sticky phrase, which is “reasonable accommodation”… The problem with this phrase is that there is nothing specific about what is considered reasonable and what isn’t. This makes…
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LGBTQ+ Talent: The Importance of Inclusion
Matthew Jacobs Morgan on the difficulties faced by aspiring performers from the LGBTQ+ community, and how role models will aid inclusion and representation Note: I sometimes use the word queer as a shorthand for LGBTQ+ It’s extremely important to have role models who are like you. And the fact that there are so few LGBTQ+ role…
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Spotlight and the National Theatre Launch Platform for D/deaf & Disabled Actors
National Theatre’s Creative Diversity Project Announces New Platform for D/deaf and Disabled Actors in the UK Spotlight are thrilled to have partnered with the National Theatre to champion D/deaf and disabled actors by offering industry professionals the opportunity to watch these actors in action on an online video platform. ProFile is a free service, both for performers and industry professionals, tackling…
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Seraphina Beh: Choosing An Agent & A Role Model
Seraphina Beh on being your own role model, and choosing the right agent for you The second part of our discussion with EastEnders’ Seraphina Beh, on the importance of a good relationship with your agent and the importance of good role models. Part one was all about overcoming rejection and finding alternative training. …
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BBC Launches Opportunity for Disabled Actors
BBC launches nationwide search, training and showcase opportunity for disabled actors The BBC is launching a pioneering new training programme for disabled actors that will shine a light on experienced actors already working in the industry, as well as discover and develop the potential of up and coming talent. The development programme, called ‘Class Act:…
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Gender Equality in Theatre: A Discussion With Bechdel Theatre
How do we champion equality on stage? Beth Watson of Bechdel Theatre has a few ideas. The Bechdel Test asks three questions of a work of fiction: “Are there two female characters? Do they talk to each other? About something other than a man?” It’s a test coined by Alison Bechdel, and aims to bring…