Spotlight UK

Image credit: Yellowbelly casting directorsinterviewmusical theatretheatre The National Theatre’s Director of Casting shares his essential advice for actors Long before he was steering the casting choices of one of the world’s most prestigious theatre institutions, Alastair Coomer was, by his own admission, a total cast-list geek.

graduatesspotlightspotlight prize We reveal the industry experts forming our Stage and Screen juries for this year’s Spotlight Prize The prestigious industry juries for the Spotlight Prize 2026 have been revealed. A panel of world-class performers and casting professionals from across the UK, Ireland, and Hollywood has been assembled to select this year’s Stage and Screen Prize winners. The final recipients will be decided on Wednesday, 8 July.

Eight essential LGBTQ+ plays packed with brilliant monologues, handpicked for actors by the experts at Nick Hern Books. Authentic representation on stage matters now more than ever. In celebration of Pride, we’ve collaborated with Maddie Hindes, Commissioning Editor at performing arts publishers Nick Hern Books, to curate a reading list that reflects the beautiful complexity of the queer community.

dancefilmfinances/legalmusical theatretelevisiontheatre The performing arts industry can be tough and sometimes you may need some support during your career or beyond. We’ve gathered a list of fantastic charities who can offer help should you ever need it. Last updated on 11 June 2026 Whether you need help to make ends meet, support your child in education or face challenges through illness, injury, age, or unexpected circumstances, there’s advice and support for those who need it.

Image Credit: Phynart Studio / iStock accessibilitydiversity/inclusivityyoung performers A parent’s guide to using Access Riders to support young performers in auditions, on set and stage Handing your child over to people they don’t know, in a place they’ve never been before, can feel daunting – for you as well as for your child. If your child has additional needs or requires specific support, it can be even harder to know what information to share, who to share it with, and when.

With the rise of industry databases, casting professionals are more open to independent talent than ever before. “I think there’s a greater trend now towards looking at self-represented actors,” says Andy Pryor, noting that many incredible performers simply haven’t partnered with an agent yet or are transitioning between representation. To capitalise on this, your digital presence needs to do the heavy lifting.

From cast, crew and locations, here’s your guide to the major film and TV shoots on location this month. The summer heat has officially arrived, and with it, a wave of cinematic entertainment with dark comedy-drama Savage House, a return to Eternia in Masters of the Universe and the nostalgic return of Toy Story 5 all hitting the big screen.

Image Credit: Sam Wright casting directorsinterviewtv Shaheen Baig on spotting raw talent, defying typecasting and the unique craft of casting Behind every unforgettable on-screen performance lies a casting director who saw something no one else could. For over three decades, Shaheen Baig has been the quiet force reshaping British film, television and theatre.

As the high-stakes search for the next 007 commences, we look at the actors who brought Bond to life on screen. Amazon MGM Studios has officially kicked off the audition process to find the next James Bond. To spearhead this monumental task, the studio has enlisted Oscar-nominated casting director Nina Gold. Nina is widely recognised for populating expansive, critically acclaimed worlds, including Game of Thrones, The Crown, and the Star Wars sequel trilogy.

image credit: Hemis/Alamy Unlock opportunities at Cannes and other A-list film festivals with these top tips from filmmaker Carla B. Guttmann. Carla B. Guttmann is an accomplished filmmaker and A-list festival coach whose career has spanned the international film circuit, from Los Angeles to Toronto. After a breakout debut that saw her treated as “festival royalty”, Carla faced the sobering reality of the industry’s gatekeeping and the hidden complexities of European film markets.