Emerging Actors Initiative is a free program for actors who have had several leading or strong supporting roles, but haven’t been able to break through to the next level. By working with industry mentors and our First Frame Initiative, the selectees will not only hone their craft but create connections to further their careers.  During the 8 month program actors will meet and work with casting directors, filmmakers, and producers who are in the position to hire them; as well as learn what it takes to work at the highest levels.

 

This initiative is geared toward working actors ready for the next level.

  • Grow your network – get in the door with potential representation, casting directors, producers, directors, etc.
  • Become your own advocate for work.
  • Learn to not be afraid to pick up the camera and shoot something yourself.
  • Work as a collaborative ensemble to assist other fellows.
  • Meet with and be directed by new and veteran directors making lifelong connections in the process.
  • Hone your craft through audition prep and working with a diverse collection of other filmmakers and actors.
  • All filmmakers encouraged to apply (LGBTQ+, BIPOC, disabled, etc). 
  • Fellows will be selected by a panel of industry experts.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Must have acted as a lead or major supporting in multiple projects.
  • Must have been in projects with a festival run and/or on a major distribution platform (ie Netflix, Amazon, NBC, etc).
  • Must have formal acting training and/or current professional training.
  • Must have track record of persistence and being innovative to achieve your goals.
  • Due to the nature of in-person classrooms, must be a Los Angeles local. 
  • Must be available for 2 or more meetings (in person and/or Zoom) per month.
  • Must be available for filming and willing to act in at least one short project for the New Filmmakers Initiative fellows.
  • SAG and NON-UNION eligible to submit.

Submission Requirements

  1. Dramatic and/or comedic acting reel.
  2. Two full works with you as the lead or major supporting role.
  3. Essay statement on how you can benefit from this initiative and how you will help your fellows benefit.
  4. Provide links to work including professional website and/or IMDB.

Blackmagic Collective Initiatives are about the COMMUNITY.  Please only apply if you are willing and able to help the fellows in the initiative with you grow, connect, and work.

Applications launch: June 18, 2021
Applications close: June 30
Interviews week of: July 5
First meeting week of: July 19
Program concludes: Feb 25, 2022

There are no fees to apply or be a part of the initiatives.

Note that Blackmagic Collective members who apply will be considered first and you must be a member if selected. Membership is free. Click below to join!