ErinLaing.com

Birthday Girl synopsis:

Eleven year-old Lindsay Maclean is planning to celebrate her 12th birthday party by staging her own funeral. She’s built a coffin and has decorated with suggestive flair. On the day of her party, Lindsay’s friends and neighbours enjoy the great food and games, all the while bemused by the bizarre setting. Love letters are passed, jealousies rise to the surface and secrets are let out of the bag. Everyone is making the most of Lindsay’s day, and through it all, Lindsay remains front and center, speaking volumes without saying a word.

We’re filming in less than two weeks and things are starting to get a bit crazy.

I finalized the cast. I had an amazing time casting. I met so many great kids but I think next time I will hire a casting director. Over the past 3 months I auditioned over 150 kids from all over the city. 90% of the cast is 12 years old or younger but most of the kids playing these roles are 14/15 years old. It’s a tough age to cast. I had 11 year olds auditioning who looked either 15 or 8. I really couldn’t have done all this casting without the help from my friends and those in the community, such as Josa Maule, Mike Migliara and Bruno Rosato - all seasoned casting directors - who I have had the pleasure of working with on other films.

I’m holding another round of auditions Wednesday January 10th at the Turtle Island Theatre in Kahnawake. I went to meet some kids at their after school program a few weeks ago and they were wonderful. I’m really excited about auditioning them as well as other actors in the area.

Sunday January 14th I’m holding auditions downtown. It’s going to be a mix of callbacks and newcomers. I have a couple of cellists coming in as well which I am extremely excited about.

If you have any questions about these auditions feel free to contact me.

I’m going to be auditioning roughly 30 kids between the age of 3 and 12 years old this Saturday. It’s going to be a crazy afternoon but I’m looking forward to it. Lets just hope none of the kids show up with this in mind.