York St John University film and television production department is searching for actors.

“York is one of the most filmic cities in the UK, yet no major production, either film or TV, has ever featured the city, but the university is taking the first steps towards changing that,” says head of programme Rob Edgar Hunt.

“By building a database of available actors and extras, it will begin the process of making the city a more attractive location for film makers.”

Over the weekends of May 2 and 3 and May 9 and 10, the university will stage screen tests for local actors interested in appearing in films. More than 100 films a year are made at York St John, hence the search for acting talent.

The screen tests will take a maximum of 30 minutes per person and all are welcome. However, only adults can be tested at this stage, although the university hopes to run sessions for children in the near future.

The tests will be conducted on an appointment basis, and anyone interested in taking part should send an email to screenwriting lecturer James Richards at j.richards1@yorksj.ac.uk Those without email access should phone on 07840 796788 instead.

The sessions will be friendly and informal and all participants will receive a DVD of their screen test. The footage and contact details will be transferred to a digital database for access by student and commercial film makers keen to film in and around York. Further screen tests will be held in the autumn and future initiatives will include a location search to identify individuals and businesses willing to let their property be used by film makers.

“Eventually it’s hoped that the York film database will become a one-stop shop for film makers, allowing them to access all their requirements through one internet gateway,” says Rob. “Many people have commented on York’s need for a signature film or TV production. We, too, think it would be excellent news for the city, but we know it’s not going to happen by magic. These screen tests are just the first stage in helping make it happen.”