Kentucky Sound Stage is looking for local actors as it prepares to begin production on a new style of movie designed specifically for mobile and social media audiences.
The Owensboro sound stage will begin filming “One Night at MIX” on Wednesday, July 22. The project is the first in a slate of vertical films planned at the facility, according to Jeremy Winton and Kristi Kilday.
Winton said vertical movies are full-length productions, often around 90 minutes, but are divided into roughly two-minute episodes. Viewers typically see the first several episodes through platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and Facebook before reaching a paywall to access the remainder of the film.
“It was a huge industry last year,” Winton said. “We are shooting a slate of those type of movies.”
The first three projects planned at Kentucky Sound Stage will primarily feature actors and actresses between the ages of 20 and 30. The production team is currently seeking local men and women in that age range for paid roles in “One Night at MIX.”
The film will be shot entirely at Kentucky Sound Stage over three days. Actors will work approximately eight-hour days.
Winton described “One Night at MIX” as a drama set entirely inside a windowless bar. The story follows several couples whose relationships and lives intersect as a mystery unfolds.
“It’s very dramatic,” Winton said, describing the film as having a soap opera-style feel with romance and relationship drama.
Those interested in being considered do not need to go through a traditional audition process. Applicants can send a photo and links to social media or other online videos that showcase their personality and comfort in front of a camera.
“We can assess through their social media because people’s personalities shine through on their social media now,” Kilday said. “YouTube links, TikTok — we’re good with using those links. Please send social media links.”
Kilday said the opportunity is part of a larger effort to develop local talent as Kentucky’s film industry continues to grow.
“It’s great that Hollywood productions are coming into Kentucky, but giving Kentucky a voice and stories here, in front of and behind the camera, with Kentuckians, is really something that we’re pushing for in the next year,” she said.
Kilday said the film and television industry has become increasingly decentralized, creating opportunities for people outside traditional entertainment hubs such as Los Angeles.
“It’s not that you’ve got to go to L.A. to make it in the film and television business,” she said. “It’s now everywhere, and Kentucky can be one of those places.”
While the current casting call is primarily for actors ages 20 to 30, Kilday encouraged people outside that age range who are interested in future productions to submit their information. The sound stage plans additional projects with opportunities for other age groups.
“The biggest thing that I want people to know, now that we’ve been in Owensboro for a year and a half, is everybody can do this,” Kilday said.
Those interested in casting opportunities can email a photo and social media or video links to [email protected].
