Seeking Actors (Ages 18–25) with a Connection to Phenix City, AL

We are casting a cohort of young performers for a weeklong immersive acting workshop in Columbus, Georgia, led by Héctor Álvarez, an interdisciplinary artist and scholar working in performance, theater, film, and contemporary opera. Álvarez is a FutureNow Fellow, Watson Fellow, Humanity in Action Senior Fellow, and a 2022 Princess Grace Award recipient.

Participants will collaborate with Álvarez and award-winning documentary filmmakers, Adam Forrester, Artemis Fannin, and Laura Asherman, in an intensive creative environment exploring the history, memory, and legacy of Phenix City, Alabama. The week will culminate in filmed historical reenactments to be featured in the upcoming feature-length documentary, Our Wicked City.

About the Project

Our Wicked City is a documentary film that examines the complex history of Phenix City, Alabama, its past violence, civic transformation, and the stories communities carry forward. This workshop is a core part of the film’s creative process, blending performance, research, and lived experience.

Who We’re Looking For

• Ages 18–25

• Must have a personal or familial connection to Phenix City, AL (residents of both Phenix City and Columbus are encouraged to apply)

• Based in or able to work as a local in Columbus, GA

• Prior acting experience is welcome but not required

• Strong interest in storytelling, history, and collaborative creative work

Workshop Details

• Location: Columbus, Georgia

• Duration: Four Days | July 27 - 30, 2026

• Led by: Acclaimed theater director and award-winning film team

• Focus: Acting exercises, historical exploration, ensemble creation, and on-camera performance

What Participants Receive

• Modest stipend

• Meals provided throughout the workshop

• On-screen credit and participation as historical reenactors in Our Wicked City

How to Apply

Please submit the following materials by July 23rd, 2026:

• Your name, age, and contact information

• A brief note about your connection to Phenix City

• Resume with any relevant experience (optional)

• A recent photo (phone images are fine)

Send materials to: info@ourwickedcity.com
Subject line: Our Wicked City Workshop – Casting Submission

Additional Notes

This workshop is designed as a supportive, collaborative space. We are especially interested in participants who are curious, open, and eager to engage with the stories that shape their community.

June 26th, 2026
4 PM - 6 PM ET

Location available after RSVP

Join Southeast Emmy Award-winning director and Phenix City native, Adam Forrester, and Peabody Award-nominated producer, Artemis Fannin as we hold an open discussion about this film project.

This listening session is designed to inform Phenix City and Columbus area community members about the project and to hear your thoughts and comments as well as answer any questions.

Let's gather together.

TIME AND DATE TBD

Location available after RSVP

Join Southeast Emmy Award-winning director and Phenix City native, Adam Forrester, and Peabody Award-nominated producer, Artemis Fannin as we launch our fundraising campaign.

Doors Open at 4:00 PM. Program begins at 4:30 PM.

All attendees will receive one raffle ticket. There will be two prize-winning drawings.

DONATION LEVELS

- All donors will receive a "Special Thanks" end credit.

- Donors at the $50 level will receive the above plus OUR WICKED CITY merch.

- Donors at the $250 or higher level will receive the above, and a fine art photograph, signed and numbered by director, Adam Forrester.

- Donors at the $500 or higher level will receive, the above and a copy of the coffee table book, MY WICKED CITY, release date TBD.

- Donors at the $1,000 or higher level will receive the above, and two OUR WICKED CITY screening passes.

- Donors at the $5,000 or higher level will receive the above, plus a personalized 1-3 minute film directed by Adam Forrester featuring the donor or a single consenting individual of their choice. *Terms and conditions apply.

Donations are tax deductible.