ARTS on the lookout for talented locals

FOR many years, the International Arts Talent Showcase (IATS) has been making dreams come true for South Africans seeking a career in the arts by providing them with a platform to showcase their talent for international talent scout and founder of the ARTS, Kim Myers.

This year, regional director for the ARTS, Elsubie Verlinden, has also invited independent casting director Rhavynn Drummer, to attend the IATS in October. Drummer has always had a love for actors and great performances and has worked in casting for the past six years.

She has scouted talent for many established production houses, including Tyler Perry Studios, and has had the privilege of working on projects like The Family that Preys, Why did I Get Married Too?, The Marriage Counselor and the television series House of Payne and Meet the Browns.

But IATS is not just an acting platform. It is open to artists from various faculties: acting, singing, modelling and dancing.

Verlinden, founder of Just You Model and Artist Management, in her crusade to open doors for young South African hopefuls to achieve more, teamed up with Myers to host IATS. In her capacity as regional director for ARTS in Africa, she has provided countless young South Africans exposure to top educational outlets in the US.

Previously scouted models have walked the runways of New York and LA Fashion Week. Select actors and singers have performed at distinguished venues such as the Apollo Theatre and The Bitter End, which is one of the oldest rock and roll clubs in New York.

Each year, Verlinden travels from city to city throughout South Africa to scout the best talent the country has to offer to attend the IATS showcase.

This is not a competition. It’s a platform – its primary focus is on arts education – which allows longevity in the marketplace. Those who are selected are taken through the steps and taught the ins and outs of the industry.

Verlinden said: “I enjoy working with aspiring and established artists, but the stronger the passion the better their chances. Based on past successes, dancers and models are also in high demand this year.”

The IATS is aimed at local entertainers, both young and old. It gives youngsters not only a platform to showcase their talent locally, but the opportunity to travel abroad and the chance at international education – to further develop their skills. – Arts Reporter

Cape Town audition details: Date: Saturday, February 25, 2017 Venue: The Hyde Hotel Registration opens at 8am.