Spotlight Forum 2026
Taking place on 4 November at Leeds City Museum, the Spotlight Forum will celebrate the thriving creative sector across the North and bring together performers, talent agents, casting directors, and directors. Themed this year as The North Star: Connecting Our Creative Community, the event will span a wide range of industry topics, including:
The Film and TV Charity Presents ‘Break the Cycle’
Join us for an introduction to Break the Cycle, a powerful film from The Film and TV Charity. Discover the vital support services available to help navigate the industry’s toughest challenges and learn how you can champion positive workplace cultures, call out bad practice and become an active ally for change.
'The Split Up’: How Regional Production Powers Northern Creativity
Join the team behind The Split Up (Sister/BBC) as they trace the journey of relocating a hit television franchise from London to Manchester. Discover how regional investment creates authentic South Asian screen representation, opens high-profile casting opportunities for local actors, and builds a lasting legacy for Northern talent.
Casting in the North: Changing the Mindset
With the Northern Creative Corridor booming, the case for casting outside the M25 has never been stronger so why are so many auditions still anchored in London? Join industry leaders to confront the financial, logistical, and environmental barriers facing regional performers – and discover how we can build a fairer, more sustainable casting landscape across the North, Scotland, and the UK regions.
Spotlight Forum Awards
The Spotlight Forum Awards celebrate our North Stars! Join us as we honour the industry titans changing the game in the North and beyond — featuring a very special guest.
Last year’s Spotlight Conference winners were:
- Casting Director Debbie McWilliams (James Bond) – Lifetime Achievement in Casting Award
- Casting Director Shaheen Baig (Adolescence) – Discovery Award
- Ben Frow (Chief Content Office, at Paramount UK) – Broadcast Award
Evening Celebration
The Spotlight Forum Afterparty – End the day with people from across the industry as we celebrate the creativity and talent in the North.
Please note: The Spotlight Forum will finish at approximately 6pm, followed by the Evening Celebration starting at 8pm. These tickets are available for non-Spotlight members and grant you access to the afternoon conference and evening celebration only. Spotlight members wishing to attend the morning workshops please visit here.
All proceeds support the Film and TV Charity. Sponsored by Streets Media Accountancy.