A casting call has gone out to Birmingham actors to take part in a hard-hitting urban drama that tackles the issue of gang affiliation in the city.
‘My Life, My Choice’ is part of an educational project being run by Birmingham Reducing Gang Violence (BRGV) and is set to be cast and filmed locally, to produce a 20-minute gang-awareness DVD for use as a teaching resource in city schools.
Previous acting experience is preferred, but not essential, and most of the parts are for 16 to 25-year-olds, with one older actor needed for the role of ‘dad’.
The film is being produced by Birmingham-based social marketing, media and communications company LiME, in partnership with BRGV.
LiME’s Mark Ashfield said: “We are looking for local talent with an understanding of Birmingham youth language as this film has been scripted by teenagers from across the city. It would be a good way for anyone involved in amateur dramatics to expand their acting portfolio. The work is not salaried, although we will pay expenses. However, it is an excellent opportunity for young people to showcase their acting abilities to a wider audience.”
A casting session is being held in Birmingham later this month (May) and filming is due to take place over several days in June, with some night work.
Director of Inclusion Services at Birmingham’s Children’s Directorate Chrissie Garrett said: “The purpose of the film will be to raise awareness of the whole gang issue and get young people talking about it. We want them to understand the negative impact of gangs and recognise the consequences of involvement with them.”
For more details about the film and how to register your interest in an acting role, log on to http://www.starnow.co.uk/Casting-Calls/Actors-wanted/Short-film/actors_required_for_short_film_.htm
Note to Editors:
BRGV is part of the Safer Birmingham Partnership and includes West Midlands Police, Birmingham City Council and a range of community groups.
This project was commissioned by BRGV through the Tackling Knives Action Programme (TKAP) in conjunction with the Safer Birmingham Partnership. It is one of a range of initiatives to tackle knife crime, weapon carrying and gang affiliation across Birmingham.
Birmingham-based LiME Social Marketing, Media & Communications Ltd has delivered similar programmes across the country on behalf of the Metropolitan Police and other community safety partnerships.
For further information please contact West Midlands Police press officer Jane Vincent on 0121 626 5141 or email j.vincent@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk
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I think its a great idea. Young kids dont respond so positively to television news reporting the same issue. I think responding to the problem in a way which suits them, is much more effective!