Another Sunday, another weekly catch-up!
Looking back across the last week, it has been an incredibly validating, connected, and deeply rewarding week for both me personally and for Ghostlight Talent.
Reconnecting at the Spotlight Forum in Leeds
Wednesday took me to the Spotlight Forum in Leeds, and it turned out to be a fantastic gathering.
To make the day even more special, a couple of my own talent were there with me. In an industry where so much communication lives inside email inboxes, self-tapes, and showreel links, getting to share the exact same room, navigate the event together, and catch up properly in person was invaluable.
It was equally brilliant to look across the room and spot so many familiar faces, industry professionals, and actors I’ve had the joy of connecting with and working with over the years. This was an incredibly valuable chance to catch up face-to-face with numerous casting directors and fellow industry professionals I’ve built relationships with over time. Having real conversations about the landscape, upcoming projects, and the brilliant talent coming out of our region is second to none.
The event also featured some truly wonderful recognition moments celebrating remarkable contributions to the industry. Watching Jodie Comer present Jane Epstein from Independent Talent with the Talent Discovery Award was a highlight, beautifully showcasing the depth and trust of that actor-agent partnership. Mark Herbert from Warp Films was also honoured with the award for Outstanding Contribution to Northern Storytelling and bumping into him literally downstairs as everyone was exiting was such a lovely, grounded moment to cap off the awards.
A Meaningful Full-Circle Moment
Undoubtedly, the standout highlight of the forum was bumping into several former students.
As someone who spent time in the classroom/theatre helping train and guide actors earlier in their journeys, there is a very quiet, profound pride in seeing them now, thriving, fully-fledged working actors carving out their own space in this demanding industry. Being just one part of their early training foundation and getting to share a room with them today as professional peers is truly special. "Legacy" might sound lofty, but being a small stepping stone in someone’s creative journey is genuinely one of the most fulfilling feelings you can have.
Down to the Capital & Rejuvenated for the Road Ahead
Keeping the momentum rolling, straight after the Forum I jumped on a train straight down to London for another round of high-value meetings, expanding our footprint, and keeping those channels wide open is always well worth the train miles.
I’ve returned to the office feeling completely rejuvenated, inspired, and excited for what’s ahead as we push deeper into November.
To everyone following along on this journey, supporting the agency, and championing the actors: I/We are very appreciative and grateful, thank you so much.
May it long continue!
Have a fantastic week, everyone.
