‘It was diverse at the time and we really want to show that’...
Potteries filmmakers in need of extras from Black and Asian backgrounds
A BRAND new feature film due to sbe shot later this month is on the lookout for extras from Black and Asian communities in a bid to showcase the diversity within the pottery industry in the early 1900s.
Produced in partnership with Caspian Films, The Colour Room is based on the potbanks of the 1920s and follows the story of trailblazing ceramic artist Clarice Cliff and highlights her story of how she broke into the male dominated industry.
Shooting for the film will take place from Monday, March 29 and any extras who are successful are needed for four weeks from that date - extras will be paid £100 per day.
Writer Claire Peate and director Claire Mccarthy are hopeful to boost the film’s diversity.
Biddulph based Casting Director Jessica Wilshaw is looking for anyone over the age of 16.
She said: “We are really keen on diversity and I’m pushing for people from Black and Asian backgrounds.
“It was diverse at the time and we really want to show that because it has been forgotten. There were not just white people working in the potbanks during that time.
“For the industry it’s important in general and there is a push to ensure we are being diverse.”
The casting team is also looking for artists, art students or anyone with pottery skills and no previous acting experience is required.
Jessica added: “It’s really exciting. It’s a really nice script and a great story. The cast is being confirmed and it’s getting to be quite a good cast and we are hoping to release some names soon that people will know.
“I don’t think we get many opportunities here. Stoke-on-trent voices aren’t heard as much. It’s a lovely local story.
“A lot of the extras will be pottery workers and some will be passers by or neighbours.
“A lot will be looking like they are doing skilled pottery. We are looking for pot throwers as well.
“Most important things are good availability during those dates because we will be filming during the week. You don’t need any acting experience. Anyone is welcome to apply.”
The film is expected to be released 18 months after filming has ended but it’s not yet confirmed which platform it will be released on.
The casting team are open to hear from anyone in the city but are especially keen to hear from:
■ People from Black and Asian backgrounds;
■ People with pottery related skills, skilled painters/artists.
If you would like to be considered for this opportunity contact thecolourroomcasting@gmail.com before March 20 and include:
■ A recent selfie clearly showing your face and hair;
■ Contact number;
■ Height;
■ Clothing and shoe size;
■ Availability between March 29 and the end of April;
■ Are you willing to have your hair cut?