Casting Call for Student Movie Production Titled “The Diversity Hire”
A drama film titled “The Diversity Hire” is currently casting for roles in an upcoming production set to film at Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD) on April 6, 2025. The production is seeking actors for key roles in a thought-provoking story exploring race, art, and identity.
Student Film Details
- Title: The Diversity Hire
- Genre: Drama
- Location: Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD)
- Shooting Date: April 6, 2025
- Audition Deadline: March 23, 2025 (Self-tape submissions)
Synopsis
Samyra, an aspiring artist, is determined to succeed in the art world but finds herself battling racial expectations and biases. When she is interviewed by an all-white panel, she must decide whether to compromise her artistic integrity to fit their vision or stand firm and risk walking away.
Roles
Samyra (Lead) – Black / African American (Female-presenting, 18-22)
A passionate and talented artist striving for recognition. Strong-willed but forced to navigate the racial biases of the predominantly white art world. The role requires a strong emotional range as the character evolves from eager anticipation to frustration and disillusionment.
President Dan (Supporting) – White (Male-presenting, 40-60)
The head of the panel, exuding warmth and professionalism on the surface but ultimately patronizing and dismissive in his racial bias. He considers himself progressive but upholds discriminatory norms.
Woman 1 (Supporting) – White (Female-presenting, 40-60)
A panelist who offers backhanded compliments and condescending critiques of Samyra’s work. She is oblivious to her own racial biases.
Man 1 (Supporting) – White (Male-presenting, 40-60)
A panelist who critiques Samyra’s subjects for not appearing “clean-cut” enough. He is dismissive and subtly condescending.
Man 2 (Supporting) – White (Male-presenting, 40-60)
A panelist who claims not to “see race” but contradicts himself by expressing a preference for a lighter, clean-looking representation.
Audition Instructions
- Self-Tape Submission: Record a performance of the audition scene provided in the script (attached). If possible, read with a partner for the supporting roles, but solo performances are accepted.
- Slate: Start the audition by stating name, age (if comfortable), height, and location.
- Performance Notes:
- Samyra: Show emotional reactions to microaggressions, building frustration and confidence.
- Panel Members: Deliver lines with a tone of professionalism while subtly expressing discomforting biases.
- File Format: Submit as an .mp4 file, labeled: YourName_TheDiversityHire_Audition.mp4.
- Deadline: March 23, 2025 – late submissions will not be considered.
- Submission Email: Send all auditions to jspann@mcad.edu.
This project offers an opportunity to portray complex characters in a socially relevant story. Actors of all experience levels are encouraged to apply.
See the script below.
Please note this is an unpaid student film project, so please only apply if you live in the Minneapolis, Minnesota area.
