Mary L. Shannon

Dear friends,

DYSPLA are currently asking for recommendations.

Do you, or someone you know – know any London based black disabled performers/veterans who could play the famous street performer #BILLYWATERS.

Please feel free to share this casting call with those you think may find it of interest.

Casting Call Details:

DYSPLA are currently casting for a Black disabled actor/performer/veteran to play the famous street performer, BILLY WATERS.

BILLY WATERS was described as: ”A busker, sailor, immigrant, father, lover, extraordinary talent, and a forgotten Black celebrity from Regency London,’ in Mary Shannon’s recent book about Billy Waters @yalebooks_history

Waters could sing, dance and play a musical instrument. He was an incredible artist and street performer. Born into indentured servitude in New York in 1778, he escaped slavery by joining the British Navy, where he lost a limb during a rigging accident.

We welcome submissions from a wide range of people who feel they can embody Billy Waters, even if they cannot play a musical instrument, or dance.

Billy Waters was a below-the-knee single amputee. We welcome submissions from people with lower limb differences and will also consider all other visible physical impairments/disabilities.

Billy Waters was a male-presenting person and we are happy to receive suggestions from performers who can play a male presenting role regardless of gender.

JOB DETAILS:

Type: Micro Digital Art Film

Producers: DYSPLA

Usage: This micro film will be presented as part of a new museum collection of digital films about disabled Londoners.

Filming Location: North London.

Only actors/performers living in London (Zone 1-6) should apply.

Travel: Cab Fare within London – Zone 1-6. Cap of £45.00 per journey.

Production Dates: 2 consecutive filming days dependent on the availability of the actor.

Duration: 10:00 am-5:00 pm.

Fee: 350.00 per day – No VAT should be added to the invoice

Specialist Desired Skills A Bonus: Singing, dancing, playing a musical instrument.

To apply please email Lennie at hello@dyspla.com with your spotlight link or send your CV and Showreel if you have one.

A special Thank you to CRIPtic Arts for support with the wording of this casting post.