Spotlight
What are Spotlight's joining requirements?
Three professional credits in three years, graduation from a recognised drama school, or signed agent representation with specific credits. Different requirements for Graduate and Young Performer tiers.
Spotlight publishes detailed eligibility criteria, but the short version is that you need to prove you're a working or training professional.
Performer tier (adults):
- Three professional credits in the last three years. "Professional" means paid work for a production company, theatre, or broadcaster — not self-produced, not student work.
- OR a current signed contract with a Spotlight-approved agent who confirms your eligibility.
- OR significant recent graduate credits — requires case-by-case review.
Graduate tier:
- Graduated from a Spotlight-recognised UK drama school within the last 12 months.
- No additional credits required in the first year.
- You transition to Performer after the first year; you'll need credits by then.
Young Performer tier:
- Under 18 and either with an agent or with a specific professional credit.
- Parents/guardians manage the account.
What doesn't count as a credit:
- Self-produced short films (even if well-made).
- Unpaid student films (though some recognised school productions do count).
- Background or extra work.
- Drama school productions (except through the Graduate route).
If you're close:
Get honest feedback from a Spotlight-recognised agent before applying. Spotlight is strict — a borderline application is usually rejected.