Breakthrough Performers 2025
Our annual partnership with BIFA provides a six-month programme of support for all the Breakthrough Performance category longlistees and nominees.
Specifically tailored to this unique career experience, the sessions include career development, wellbeing, casting and financial literacy in addition to networking opportunities.
Known for highlighting exciting new talent, the Breakthrough Performance category (formerly Most Promising Newcomer) has always featured a broad array of talent from varying levels of entry into the industry including street casting, alternative pathways and traditional routes.
For some, it is often the first experience of recognition within the industry. We appreciate BIFA’s commitment to ensuring those acknowledged within this category have the best experience possible.
2025 Longlist
Coming soon.
This years programme is supported by Independent Talent Group, IMDb & SeeSaw Films with additional contributions from Conway Van Gelder Grant, CAM, Curtis Brown, LARK and individual donations.
The Programme
Welcome event for talent to connect with one another and to help prepare them for the journey on what to expect. Through this informal introduction, we will introduce the longlisted performers to the programme and the awards process while beginning to identify the varying levels of the performers’ needs and prior experience.
Wellbeing & Empowerment session for nominees to reflect on the experience of the ceremony and focus on positive next steps.
Practical Casting workshop giving performers a chance to speak with industry professionals about how to navigate rooms, tapes, auditions and recalls etc. without the pressure of a job connecting to the interaction.
Financial Literacy session to equip performers to navigate the industry as a business. Practical session with a financial advisor or business accountant unpacking the basics behind being self employed. Co-delivered by Blinkhorns.
Career development Q&A panel with writers, directors and producers for the longlistees to learn more about behind the scenes roles.
CSA UK Artios Awards x Breakthrough Performers dinner, an evening to celebrate and be in the room with the very best casting directors in the UK.
View the previous Breakthrough Performers cohorts: