Life after Spotlight

Demi Leigh
Actor

Good afternoon actors and creatives!

For the past four years I'd been struggling to get my spotlight-qualifying credits. At last, we got there - mostly thanks to independent theatre productions.

My question to you is: Now what? How does being on Spotlight change the game??

I am in an upcoming play, and I have invited agents etc. However, it seems that even fewer have replied, compared to when I wasn't on spotlight. Is it just a tough time for the UK industry? How is everyone else doing?

Just wanted to start a conversation and also share that yes, there is hope for us adult actors who didn't go down the acting school route!

Much love,
Demi


  • 2 years ago
  • 1,621
  • 5
Private User
This profile is private

Hi Demi
I can honestly say I have had no jobs via Spotlight. Been accredited for about 5 years now. I find that things move so quickly and most productions go straight to Casting Directors which they use regularly, to fill the role quickly. Casting Directors at least in my experience have their set of agents that they hit up for faces/names.
That or word of mouth is what seemed to be the route that was finding results.


  • 2 years ago
  • 1

Hi Saffron,

Hit the nail on the head there. As far as I’m concerned the top is like a private members club. It’s very elitist which is a real real shame with the talent that’s out there. Sometimes even far better than the members in that top club.


  • 2 years ago
  • 2
Demi Leigh
Actor

This is a great point Saffron, I think I am starting to understand what Spotlight can do for you and what it can't. It definitely helps with any requests for representation, and it is a great landing page to send if you are applying for something through twitter/fb/Mandy etc.

Also credit where credit is due, I have self-applied for similar types of jobs on both Spotlight and Mandy, and I find Mandy to be way more responsive.


  • 2 years ago
  • 3
Private User
This profile is private

It definitely has it's place and helps to show you are accredited! I remember years ago when I wasn't financially placed to pay Spotlight (upfront fee, before they allowed monthly direct debit). I lost out on a role that would have been good exposure (short that won Baftas and festivals). Simply because the director/producer would only take someone with Spotlight. So it seems like a must-do. Just a shame that it's not really a good method for getting work or anyone contacting you.

I'm so glad to have found Mandy, it seems to have a great turnover of potential work.


  • 2 years ago
  • 4
You must login as a candidate to participate in the forum.
Please note: Messages written in the forum do not represent the views of The Mandy Network, nor have they been vetted by The Mandy Network staff. If you read something which you believe to be offensive or defamatory, please contact us and we will take the appropriate action.