BBC launches Disabled Talent Directory and nationwide Talent Search

28th July 2009

The BBC has created an online directory of Disabled Actors and Performers as part of their commitment to connect with all audiences and portray their lives authentically on screen.

The directory has been designed to assist programme makers and casting directors cast more widely for all roles across the BBC's drama and comedy output. The Directory contains over 120 disabled actors, comedians and performers with disabilities and is freely available to in-house and independent producers.

The Disabled Actors and Performers Directory is part of a range of initiatives across BBC Drama, Comedy and Children that are aimed at supporting and raising the profile of disabled actors and performers in the industry. It has been created with the support and collaboration of Spotlight, Equity and many other talent agencies.

The BBC is also committed to finding and nurturing new talent with the launch of a nationwide talent search.

"Talent Alert", which is being led by BBC Drama, Comedy and Children's, will seek out new disabled talent, focusing on four cities, Manchester, Glasgow, London, and Cardiff. Casting directors from the BBC will be hosting two-day workshops in each city.

More details are available here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/pressoffice/pressreleases/stories/2009/06_june/04/directory.shtml