Mother and daughter partnership hold Bedford open day for new talent agency
A drama teacher and her television production daughter are combining their industry knowledge to bring a youth talent agency to Bedfordshire.
Karen Woodcock has lived in Northill since 2004, founding the Masquerades Youth Theatre Group when she was asked to assist with the village pantomime, as a way for her own children to make friends.
The performing arts school offers drama, dance, singing and musical theatre classes for children, teenagers and adults with the aim of making the performing arts accessible and affordable to all.
Karen has been a drama teacher for around 30 years, with the youth theatre group successfully running for 21 years. But she’s now decided to expand by launching a talent agency with her daughter, hosting a launch event on Sunday, June 14 to search for local talent.
Karen’s daughter Jaz, a former Stratton School student, was herself a pupil, but decided to support her love of performing arts by training to become a lawyer and is now working as a legal assistant in television production.
Karen said: “We have now made the exciting, slightly nerve wracking, decision to begin a locally based youth talent agency to assist young people to find work in the TV and film industry. So often families have to travel to London to find representation so we are thrilled to bring this opportunity to our community.
“The launch is also going to be the opportunity to meet myself and my daughter, with the chance to take part in a workshop and have headshots taken.”
The launch will be held from 11am on Sunday, June 14 at The Tithe Barns, The Kingfisher, Bedford and open for anyone aged from two to 25 years.
People can pop in to meet Karen, ask about Keiki Talent or sign up for a performing arts workshop which will include having headshots taken.
The Keiki Talent Agency will work on a no work, no fee basis, making having agency representation possible for all.
"We will be discovering and nurturing talent for TV, film and commercial work. But all performers and lovers of the performers arts will be considered, “ added Karen.
“Just bring yourself and your enthusiasm to the launch but if you are having your headshots taken then you will want to come groomed (but we will also have people there to assist with hair). The best clothing for headshots are block coloured clothing rather than patterns and avoid branded and tops with lettering on. Feel free to bring a few outfit options too.”
For further information contact Karen or Jaz at [email protected]