DE-MYS-TIFY 2024

The DE-MYS-TIFY 2024 Summer term was fully funded by Arts Council England.

Hosted in London at BOLD Elephant, following an open application process, we selected 10 participants following an audition process. We then embarked on a 10-week training programme to develop their performance skills and awareness of the industry.

DE-MYS-TIFY is exclusively for actors from low socio-economic backgrounds.

For the duration of the course, we hosted workshops and panel discussions at BOLD Elephant, with industry professionals; workshop leaders included Director Audrey Sheffield (Stranger Things: The First Shadow, Jews. In their own words), Actor David Mumeni (Bridgerton, Stath lets flats), Director Nick Bagnall (Hansel & Gretal - The Globe), Writer Paula B Stanic (winner of the Alfred Fagon award for play What’s Lost), and Casting Director Beatrice Ray (Chewing Gum, Mandy).

Panel discussions included Chris Sonnex (AD & CEO of Cardboard Citizens), Rob Hadden (Agent at JAG), Abi Zakarian (Playwright, Terrifying Women), Saffiyah Ingar (Actor, The Witcher).

Throughout training, participants were supported by DE-MYS-TIFY’s Company Director, Assistant Facilitator, and Creative Producer, so that the teaching approach felt tailored to each individual learning style.

In addition to this, DE-MYS-TIFY appointed a Wellbeing Practitioner -Yasmeen Arden, to support each student as they participated on the programme.

Each student was paid £100 for attendance to each workshop, and given £15 per session to contribute toward travel expenses.

At the end of the programme we hosted two sold out industry showcases. With several participants going on to sign with agents and gaining further work.

If you are from a low socio-economic background, and want to hear more about future projects please follow us on instagram: @de_mys_tify