Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, a leading arts institution in Nigeria, is thrilled to announce an innovative collaboration with Netflix, the world’s leading streaming entertainment service. Through the initiative, talented actors for the screen and experienced screenwriters will undergo training with the goal to improve the local talent pool and promote Nigerian stories on the global stage. It is funded through the Netflix Fund for Creative Equity, a dedicated effort to help identify, train and provide job placement for the next generation of talent from underrepresented communities around the world.
The collaboration is a significant milestone for Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts, which has been developing and nurturing young talent in the Nigerian entertainment industry for over a decade. With the partnership, the academy will leverage Netflix’s global reach and industry expertise to produce quality content that reflects the rich culture and diverse stories of Nigeria.
The selected actors and screenwriters will receive hands-on training and guidance from industry professionals throughout the duration of the programme. They will also have the opportunity to be part of a local production, which will give them exposure to new audiences.
Speaking on the partnership, Joke Silva, the co-CEO, Performing Arts, said, “We are excited to partner with Netflix on this ground-breaking initiative. The academy has always been committed to promoting the Nigerian arts and entertainment industry, and this partnership is a significant step towards achieving that aim. We are confident that the selected actors and writers will gain invaluable skills and experience through this programme, and we look forward to seeing them contribute to the growth and development of the industry.”
Also, Ronya Man, Performing Arts and Accelerate TV, have joined as technical and creative sponsors for the collaboration between Netflix and Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts as their expertise and creativity support will help to ensure the success and quality of the ground-breaking project. “We are pleased to have them as partners and look forward to this exciting journey together.
The training commenced on Monday July 10, 2023.
The audition panel was made up of industry greats including; Ajoke Silva, Femi Odugbemi, Ronya Man and Omonor Somolu.