Rotorua Launches Search To Find New Zealand’s Next Famous Face

ROTORUA, Thursday 22nd November 2012: Rotorua is searching for its next big star to follow in the footsteps of Cliff Curtis, Temuera Morrison and Bret McKenzie – all of whom launched their acting careers in the iconic New Zealand city.

Some of New Zealand’s biggest names got their first acting job starring in commercials and now a young Rotorua female, aged eight to 16, has the opportunity to front a nationwide television and online campaign to promote the city to the rest of New Zealand.

Destination Rotorua Marketing (DRM) has engaged a professional casting agency to hold auditions for its ‘Finding the Face’ campaign at the end of this month, with subsequent television commercials due to screen prior to the 2013 Easter holidays.

The television commercials will share Rotorua’s story with the rest of New Zealand and aim to drive an increase in domestic tourism. They will form the next stage of DRM’s new ‘Famously Rotorua’ campaign which is designed to showcase the unique, unexpected experiences the region has to offer while re-engaging Kiwis with the famous city.

DRM general manager, Oscar Nathan, says the concept for the television commercials is still under wraps but the organisation is excited about its ‘game-changing’ campaign which will roll out over the next three years.

Potential stars are being asked to register their interest with the casting agency in Rotorua over the next week, and a road show is now underway in conjunction with a local radio promotion to create buzz in local schools.

Nathan says it is Rotorua’s local spirit that makes it distinct and DRM is excited to showcase this through the campaign. “Rotorua is filled with natural talent, and there is no better way to communicate Rotorua’s message to New Zealand than by using a local to front the television commercials.

“It’s a massive opportunity and we would love to see a huge turn out for registration. Who knows what future possibilities lie ahead for those willing to give it a shot?”

Nathan says applicants will need to enjoy being in front of the camera and take pride in who they are. “Girls registering will also need to be proud of Rotorua because it’s going to be their job to share that pride as a local and encourage New Zealanders to feel the same way and come and visit.”

Registration for ‘Finding the Face’ will be held on Friday 30 November from 3pm to 6pm and Saturday 1 December from 9am to 3pm at the Rotorua Convention Centre.

Applicants will have their photo taken, be seen by the casting crew and fill out a registration form. However, those that can’t make the above dates can also register
on-line at www.rotoruanz.com/auditions.

The casting agency will then draw up a shortlist from those who have registered and hold formal auditions in Rotorua in early December.

ENDS

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