By Staff Reporter
Markham
The Markham Talent Open Casting Call is back again for a second year in partnership with the Markham Arts Council. All performing artists including singers, songwriters, musicians, dancers, actors, models and other entertainers are invited to submit their talent to compete in the 2024 Markham Talent Open Casting Call. It is open to all artists who live, study, or work in Ontario.
Competitions will be held in two groups: Age 16 & under and Age 17 & over. The deadline for submission of 60 second performance tapes is Thursday, June 6, 2024, at 5 pm. The semi-finals will be held in June and the finals in September.
Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti is the Honorary Chair for this event which is co-chaired by Markham Ward 6 Councilor and Executive Producer of Open Casting Call and Showcase Amanda Yeung Collucci, Markham Arts Council Chair Stephen Chait and Markham Arts Council Executive Director Shruti Ganapathy.
“We are dedicated to celebrating the diverse talent that Ontario has to offer,” says Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti, Honorary Chair. “We believe that every artist deserves a chance to be seen and heard, and the city of Markham is excited to provide a platform for performers to showcase their skills.”
Last year’s massive success signaled a boost for contestants, many of whom were signed by casting agents and others and booked a number of commercials as well as acting and music assignments. This year also, a panel of renowned judges, including Music directors, talent agencies, casting directors and industry experts, will be on hand to select semi-finalists from each category from the audition submissions who will then compete in the finals. The finalists will be awarded cash and other prizes.
“The 2023 Markham Talent Open Casting Call exceeded all expectations, marking a resounding success in the discovery and promotion of budding talent,” says Councilor Amanda Yeung Collucci. “Numerous contestants were signed by professional talent managers, leading to lucrative opportunities in commercials, prints, TV, and film. Additionally, several participants launched their own singles, further showcasing the diverse range of talent discovered through this event. As a premier platform for aspiring artists, the Markham Talent Open Casting Call continues to serve as a vital conduit for connecting emerging talent with industry professionals, fostering growth and innovation in the entertainment sector.”
The impressive list of judges includes an exemplary judging panel that includes Juno Board Member Aideen O Brien; Juno Awards Nominee Robert Laidlaw; Talent manager Patricia Jarosz; Talent Manager and Model Agent Cynthia Cully / Television/Film Casting Director Colleen Rush; Casting Director Sarah Sheps /Youth Judges Anthony Collucci and Maya Gamzu amongst many others.
“Markham Talent is providing a platform for emerging artists to gain exposure and recognition for their craft,” said Stephen Chait, Chair of the Markham Arts Council. “Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a newcomer to the scene, this is an opportunity not to be missed,” Chait added further.
Contestants can visit the Markham Talent website to complete the online form and upload their videos. Tickets for the semi-finals and finals are priced at $25 and all proceeds will help Markham Arts Council to drive economic growth in arts, culture, and tourism sectors within the City of Markham.
