A casting agency that has supplied talent for BBC dramas and Disney, Marvel, and Warner Brothers movies is now seeking 'everyday' local people from the North East for upcoming productions. Uni-versal Extras, based at Pinewood Studios near London, is looking for individuals to work on new productions filmed locally from this summer.
Opportunities for All Walks of Life
The casting team is filling extra, walk-on, and featured roles for a range of productions, with opportunities for people from all backgrounds without any acting experience. While details are limited, the agency is currently casting for a major comedy adaptation and a new TV crime drama. Productions may start filming in the region over coming weeks, and major feature films are also in the pipeline.
North East as a Film Hub
Pinewood, the home of British cinema, is tapping into the North East's growing reputation as a major UK film and TV hub. The region has seen activity such as Robson Green filming new BBC crime drama The Northumbria Mysteries and The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole shooting around Hartlepool. The BBC is investing in the region, and North East Screen is working on digital initiatives for young talent.
The North East's mix of coast, countryside, and cityscapes has attracted major filmmakers, including Michael Bay for Transformers: The Last Knight and Danny Boyle for 28 Years Later in Northumberland. North East Mayor Kim McGuinness noted, 'We have demand for more film and TV to be made in the region.'
No Experience Required
Uni-versal Extras has supplied background artists for over two decades, with recent credits including Rivals, Amandaland, The Magic Faraway Tree, Wuthering Heights, and Jurassic World: Rebirth. The agency seeks 'authentic local voices' from across the North East, including Newcastle and Hartlepool. 'Everyday people' of all backgrounds, looks, and ages (minimum age 16 years and six months) are encouraged to apply. No prior acting experience or formal training is required.
A spokesperson said: 'The North East has some of the most vibrant communities and spectacular backdrops in the UK. We have incredible productions heading to the region and we want real local people to experience the magic of a major film set.'
Paid Work with Flexible Hours
Opportunities are available from June through summer and beyond. Extras receive 'highly competitive day rates', free meals, and subsidised travel, making it suitable for students, retired people, and freelancers. Interested applicants can register via the UVE Artiste app (Android and iOS) or the Uni-versal Extras website.
