MARKHAM – After the huge success of the 2023 inaugural Markham Talent (www.markhamtalent.ca), the Open Casting Call is back again this year, in partnership with the Markham Arts Council (www.markhamartscouncil.com). 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 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 (https://www.markhamtalent.ca/register-now) is Thursday, June 6, 2024 at 5 pm. The semi-finals will be held on June 15-16, 2024 and the finals on September 20, 2024.
Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti is the Honorary Chair for this event which is co-chaired by Markham Ward 6 Councillor 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 for 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 Councillor 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. (https://www.markhamtalent.ca/Judges)
“Markham Talent is providing a platform for emerging artists to gain exposure and recognition for their craft, says 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”.
Tickets to view the semi-finals and finals are $25 and all proceeds will help Markham Arts Council drive economic growth in arts, culture, and tourism sectors within the City of Markham.
To register for the Markham Talent 2024 Open Casting Call:
● Complete the online form at markhamtalent.ca, and then submit a link to a YouTube video of your proposed act. Video submissions should be no longer than 60 seconds in length (Full Details and Rules listed on the website). Register at (https://www.markhamtalent.ca/register-now
● Deadline for submissions is Thursday, June 6, 2024 at 5pm EST.
● A non-refundable competition Registration is $50 per registrant – includes 2 free tickets to the semifinals.