Hong Kong's entertainment industry is vibrant and diverse, offering opportunities in film, television, commercials, modeling, and stage productions. For aspiring talents, finding legitimate casting calls is the first step toward building a career. This guide outlines the most reliable sources for casting calls in Hong Kong, from online platforms and talent agencies to networking events and social media communities. For a comprehensive overview, see The Complete Guide to Starting a Talent Career in Hong Kong.
Online Casting Platforms
Several websites specialize in listing casting calls for actors, models, and extras in Hong Kong. These platforms aggregate opportunities from production companies, advertising agencies, and independent filmmakers.
StarNow
StarNow is a global casting platform with a dedicated Hong Kong section. It lists jobs for film, TV, commercials, and modeling. Talent can create a free profile, upload photos and showreels, and apply directly to castings. Premium memberships (starting at HK$199 per month) offer additional features like priority applications and profile highlighting.
Backstage
Backstage is another international platform with a growing number of Hong Kong listings. It focuses on acting roles, including theater, film, and voice-over work. A standard subscription costs approximately HK$150 per month, but free accounts can still browse and apply to some listings.
Hong Kong Extras (Facebook Group)
Facebook groups like "Hong Kong Extras" are active communities where casting directors post calls for background actors and supporting roles. Membership is free, but applicants should be wary of scams—legitimate posts usually include production company details and contact information.
Talent Agencies
Registering with a reputable talent agency can provide a steady stream of casting opportunities. Agencies act as intermediaries between talent and production companies, and they often have exclusive access to high-profile castings.
Elite Models Hong Kong
Elite Models represents fashion and commercial models. They hold open calls periodically and accept online applications. Successful applicants are added to their roster and receive casting notifications via email. Commission rates typically range from 15% to 20%.
CalCarries Model Management
CalCarries is a well-established agency in Hong Kong, representing models for runway, print, and TV commercials. They have a dedicated team that scouts new talent and submits them for castings. Interested individuals can apply through their website with a portfolio.
Actors’ Family
Actors’ Family is a talent agency focusing on child actors and adult performers for TV and film. They regularly post casting calls on their Facebook page and website. They also offer training workshops to prepare talent for auditions.
For a detailed guide on evaluating agencies, see our article How to Choose a Talent Agency in HK.
Production Companies and Casting Directors
Following production companies and casting directors on social media can alert you to upcoming projects. Many companies announce casting calls directly on their Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn pages.
Media Asia
Media Asia is one of Hong Kong's largest film production companies. They occasionally post casting calls for their movies on their official Facebook page. Follow them for updates on major productions.
Emperor Motion Pictures
Emperor Motion Pictures produces blockbuster films and often holds open auditions for supporting roles. Their website and social channels announce these opportunities.
ViuTV
ViuTV, a local television broadcaster, frequently seeks talent for reality shows, dramas, and variety programs. They post casting calls on their website under the "Audition" section. Recent examples include calls for "King Maker" (a singing competition) and "ViuTV 2024" program hosts.
Social Media and Online Communities
Social media platforms are rich sources of casting calls, especially for independent and low-budget productions. Joining relevant groups can give you early access to opportunities.
Facebook Groups
- "Hong Kong Actors & Actresses"
- "HK Filmmakers"
- "Hong Kong Modeling & Casting Calls"
These groups have thousands of members and regular posts. Always verify the legitimacy of the poster—check if they have a production company email or website.
Many casting directors use Instagram to share call sheets. Search hashtags like #hkcasting, #hongkongmodel, #hkactor, and #hkaudition. Follow accounts such as @hkcastingcall and @hongkongcasting.
Discord and Telegram
Some communities use Discord or Telegram to share casting calls in real time. For example, the "Hong Kong Film & TV" Discord server has channels dedicated to auditions and crew calls. These platforms are less formal but can be very responsive.
Networking Events and Workshops
Attending industry events is an effective way to meet casting directors and learn about upcoming projects. Many organizations host mixers, panel discussions, and workshops.
Hong Kong International Film & TV Market (FILMART)
FILMART is an annual event held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. It attracts industry professionals from across Asia. While not a casting event per se, networking there can lead to introductions and future casting opportunities.
Workshops by Talent Agencies
Agencies like Actors’ Family and CalCarries offer workshops where participants can perform in front of casting directors. These workshops often include a Q&A session and may lead to direct casting invitations. Prices range from HK$300 to HK$800 per session.
For preparation tips, read our guide Acting Audition Prep HK.
Educational Institutions and Drama Schools
Drama schools and performing arts institutions often have bulletin boards or newsletters listing casting calls for students and alumni. Even if you are not a student, some schools allow non-students to access these resources for a fee.
Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA)
HKAPA has a career services office that posts casting calls from industry partners. Alumni and current students receive email alerts. Non-students can sometimes attend open auditions advertised on their website.
Hong Kong Repertory Theatre
The Hong Kong Repertory Theatre holds auditions for their productions periodically. They announce calls on their website and through their mailing list. Subscribing to their newsletter is free.
Explore more about training options in Best Drama Schools in HK.
Print and Trade Publications
Despite the digital shift, some casting calls still appear in print. Trade magazines and newspapers occasionally list audition notices.
Variety Asia
Variety Asia, a trade publication, includes casting news in its print and online editions. Subscriptions cost HK$1,200 per year, but some content is free online.
South China Morning Post (SCMP)
SCMP sometimes publishes articles about upcoming auditions for major productions. Check the entertainment section regularly. Additionally, classified ads in SCMP (print and online) occasionally list casting calls.
Red Flags and Safety Tips
While searching for casting calls, be aware of scams. Legitimate castings never ask for upfront payment for auditions. Never share your bank details or passport number unless you have a formal contract. For more red flags, see Red Flags Talent Agencies HK.
Conclusion
Finding casting calls in Hong Kong requires persistence and a multi-channel approach. Combine online platforms, agency registrations, social media monitoring, and networking to maximize your chances. Always verify opportunities and trust your instincts. With dedication, you can build a successful career in Hong Kong's entertainment industry.