We are currently casting for ‘It Can Happen Like This’, a series of short narrative films focused on human trafficking prevention and awareness. Talent should be comfortable taking direction, collaborating on set, and helping bring authentic, engaging stories to life.
Casting multiple speaking and non-speaking roles. Local talent strongly preferred. Actors from Columbia, SC, and surrounding areas are encouraged to submit.
Submission Requirements:
- A current headshot (taken within the last 12 months).
- A self-taped monologue showcasing a dramatic reading that aligns with the role for which you are submitting.
- Include a link to your self-tape (YouTube, Vimeo, Google Drive, or other accessible platform), ensuring sharing permissions are enabled.
Applicants must be available for filming on dates scheduled between August 26, 2026, and September 13, 2026 in and around the Columbia, SC area.
Click to view available roles below:
- Lead Roles
APRIL (17–18) – Naturally beautiful and thoughtful, April faces the uncertainty of her future with a mix of hope and apprehension.
JASMINE (14) – A fashion-loving hopeless romantic, Jasmine thrives on attention and is never far from her phone.
BENNY (15–16) – Responsible beyond his years and deeply devoted to family, Benny will do whatever it takes to protect the people he loves.
ELIJAH (15) – Baby-faced, naive, and well-mannered, Elijah approaches the world with innocence and a trusting nature.
- Supporting Roles
MALIK (20) – Family-oriented and carrying responsibilities beyond his years, Malik is a young man doing his best to hold his household together.
ALYSSA (14) – Wise beyond her years, Alyssa is a determined and headstrong teen whose drive often pushes her to lead the way.
MATEO (4–6) – Energetic, innocent, and full of wonder, Mateo brings joy and curiosity to every moment.
PAUL (50+) – Handsome, persuasive, and quietly dangerous, Paul is a seasoned manipulator who hides his true intentions behind an easy smile.
GRANDMA FRANCES (50+) – Loving, dependable, and the salt of the earth, Grandma Frances is the heart of her family.
TYE (15) – Ambitious and eager for independence, Tye is determined to earn his own money and forge his own path.
JACE (17) – Confident and charismatic, Jace is a natural leader who others instinctively look to for direction.
CASSIE (28–40) – A trafficking survivor turned advocate, Cassie is a tough-minded realist whose compassion and heart of gold drive her to help others.
MELISSA (30–40) – Worn down by years of substance abuse, Melissa carries both the visible scars of her past and a quiet vulnerability.
TONY (30–55) – A tech-savvy charmer with shifty eyes and questionable motives, Tony knows how to win trust while keeping people guessing.
SOPHIA (Late 30s–Early 40s) – Beautiful yet visibly unwell, Sophia carries a quiet strength beneath her fragile appearance.
- Additional Supporting Roles
COUNSELOR (25–70) – Caring and compassionate, the Counselor balances a genuine desire to help students with the demands of a busy workload.
MYSTERY MAN – A captivating, faceless Romeo whose relentless pursuit makes him impossible to ignore.
INSTRUCTOR TAYLOR (30–45, Female) – Warm, engaging, and universally adored, Instructor Taylor is the kind of teacher every student hopes to have.
SIXTH GRADE GIRL (11–12) – Sweet-faced and innocent, this young girl approaches the world with sincerity and trust.
GIRL WITH BUTTERFLIES IN HER HAIR (13–14) – Boisterous and ethereal, this spirited girl commands attention and loves hearing herself talk.
TEACHER (25–40, Any Gender) – A supportive and engaging educator dedicated to helping students learn and succeed.
WORKER (40+) – Timid and prone to worry, this worker is conscientious, cautious, and easily overwhelmed by uncertainty.BENNY’S TEACHER (30s, Female) – Alert, attentive, and a natural educator, she instinctively knows how to reach and guide her students.
NURSE (30–50) – Kind, compassionate, and reassuring, this nurse brings comfort to patients through her exceptional bedside manner.
RESOURCE OFFICER (30s) – Handsome and purpose-driven, this dedicated school resource officer goes above and beyond to support and protect students.
ADMINISTRATOR (30–60, Any Gender) – Burdened with the daily challenges of running a middle school, this administrator remains committed to the well-being and success of every student.
8TH GRADE STUDENTS – A diverse group of energetic, curious, and relatable middle school students navigating the ups and downs of adolescence.