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Registration is open and free for our next VIRTUAL diversity initiative on May 8th, 2021.
The open call aims to help performers of MENASA (Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia) descent raise their acting profile and visibility to a panel of film and television talent agents, directors, producers and casting professionals.
To participate, MENASA performers should prepare a one-minute film or television monologue. More information and registration is available at menasaperformers.com
The following VIPs have volunteered to join the panel:
Marilyn Atlas, Producer/Manager, Marilyn Atlas Mgmt. & Co-Author of "Dating Your Character"
Jamie Roberts, Casting Director, Walt Disney Animation Studios
Andrew Burrill, Theatrical Talent Agent, Sovereign Talent Group
Mike Mosallam, Writer/Director, Brothers, Breaking Fast (President, Mike Mosallam Productions)
Dee Russo, Talent Agent, Eris Talent Agency
Ani Avetyan, Casting Director & Producer
Barrie Adleberg, Writer/Producer & Founder, Split Ends Media
Janelle Bernard, Theatrical Talent Agent, Daniel Hoff Agency
and more!
As a recent study by the MENA Arts Advocacy Coalition showed, only 1 percent of all television actors are of MENASA descent.
This underrepresentation can make it difficult for upcoming MENASA performers to find work and struggle to be seen by casting directors and other industry professionals. Studio For Performing Arts LA is working to help performers from these areas get a foot in the door through their virtual open call.
The open call is free to enter and is scheduled to take place on May 8th with appointments booked between 10 am and 2 pm PT.
Participants will meet virtually over Zoom to allow performers to sign up regardless of their location. The initiative is open for performers of ages nine and up who are of MENASA descent and able to legally work in the USA.
This is part of our studio’s scheduled series of events to assist performers from different backgrounds and regions around the world. These diversity initiatives help performers to improve their exposure and be considered for professional acting opportunities and are produced by our director, Walid Chaya.
MENASA actors can request a time slot to participate at menasaperformers.com while space lasts!
Special thank you to the MENA Arts Advocacy Coalition for their help supporting this diversity initiative and for their ongoing service to "fighting for the advancement and visibility of MENA writers, creatives, and performers."