Baird Media Calls for Auditions in South Africa's First Feature-Length Audio Drama Podcast - "Stripped"

Pretoria, South Africa - March 1, 2024 - Baird Media, a renowned podcast production and mentorship company, is thrilled to announce auditions for its groundbreaking project, "Stripped - An Audio Drama Podcast." This marks a significant milestone as South Africa's first feature-length audio drama podcast.

"Stripped" tells the compelling true story of Thomas Budge, a gay Jehovah’s Witness, who defied military conscription in 1971, leading to his imprisonment and subsequent disfellowship from the Watchtower Society due to his sexuality in 1978.

CASTING BRIEF

Baird Media is seeking experienced voice actors to bring this powerful narrative to life. Interested actors are invited to submit home recordings of the audition script along with personal details by 12:00 on March 22, 2024, through the provided audition upload link. The full casting brief has all the production details and audition scripts.

PRODUCERS

Baird Media, led by the father-and-son team of Hendrik and Ethan Baird, specializes in podcast production and mentorship. Established in 2021, they have a notable track record in podcasts like "Become a Podmaster" and "Meet My Business." "Stripped" marks their venture into the audio drama genre.

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER

Thomas Budge, the real-life protagonist, serves as the Executive Producer and Technical Advisor. His remarkable journey from military detention to a successful career and advocacy for acceptance forms the basis of this gripping audio drama.

CASTING DATES

• Casting Call Opens: March 1, 2024
• Casting Submission Deadline: March 22, 2024
• Callbacks: April 8 - 19, 2024
• Contracts: April 22 - May 3, 2024

*RODUCTION

• Release: "Stripped" is a feature-length audio drama podcast that will be freely available  all podcast platforms.
• Rehearsal: May 4, 2024, at Protea Ranch, Centurion, Pretoria.
• Recording: May 11, 2024, at Solid Gold Studios, Randburg.

PAYMENT

Actors will receive a one-time buyout payment, inclusive of all rights, residuals, and renewals. Payment details and rates can be found in the casting brief on the Baird Media Website.

SUMMARY

"Stripped" is based on the autobiography "It Is What It Is - Grace Through Acceptance" by Thomas W.E. Budge. The 90-minute drama spans 1971 to 1978, portraying the struggles of a young man who faced oppression for being true to himself.

MAIN CHARACTERS

• Thomas Budge (19-27/Male/White)
• Erith Budge (55-65/Male/White)
• Yvonne Budge (45-55/Female/White)

SUPPORTING CHARACTERS

• Elder 1, Elder 2, Corporal, Sergeant Vermaak, Captain Nel, Prisoner 1, Prisoner 2, Lt. Jacques Engelen, and more.

MINOR CHARACTERS

• Chris, Stefan, Chief Inspector/Eric, Military Policeman (MP)/Magistrate.

For detailed character descriptions, audition scripts, and other information, visit the Baird Media Website.

About Baird Media

Baird Media (Pty) Ltd, established in 2021, is a podcast production and mentorship company founded by Hendrik and Ethan Baird. They specialize in empowering podcast enthusiasts through mentorship programs and produce impactful podcasts.

For more information, visit the Baird Media Website.

For media inquiries, please contact Hendrik Baird.