Netflix film, ‘Rustin,’ seeks paid extras in Pittsburgh – The Times
PITTSBURGH — A Netflix feature film will conduct an open casting call Saturday for paid extras in Pittsburgh.
The film is “Rustin,” directed by George C. Wolfe from another Pittsburgh-made Netflix film, the acclaimed “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.” Higher Ground Productions, founded by former President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama, will produce.
“Rustin” tells the inspiring story of Bayard Rustin, a gay civil rights activist who organized the 1963 March on Washington. The march advocated for the civil and economic rights of Blacks and culminated in Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech.
In 2013, President Obama posthumously awarded Rustin with the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The film seeks extras ages 8 and older of all backgrounds, but especially Black.
Masks are required for the open call lasting from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 21 at the Kaufmann Center at 510 Heldman St. in the Hill District of Pittsburgh.
Mosser Casting will register applicants into its database and be taking current photos.
“So tank tops are preferred so we can see any tattoos,” Mosser Casting said in its press announcement.
The film takes place in 1963, so visible tattoos are an issue and “hair is very important,” Mosser said. “No braids, dreadlocks, cornrows, weaves or extensions. Natural hair colors so no pink, blue, etc. No long wigs. Period wigs are ok.”
Nor will long, thick beards, mustaches or sideburns be featured.
Applicants should bring a pen.
Filming takes place in the Pittsburgh area from Sept. 27 to Dec. 6. Pay is $168 for the expected 12-hour workdays. Extras will be required to be tested for COVID and prove that they are fully vaccinated before the first work date.
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Visit mossercasting.com for more details or to try out online.
Rose Locke Casting and Mosser Casting will collaborate on finding extras.
Scott Tady is the local Entertainment Reporter for The Beaver County Times and Ellwood City Ledger. He’s easy to reach at stady@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @scotttady