Sydney-based casting director Toni Higginbotham suspended her industry workshops and conducted a “comprehensive review” of her agency practices in the wake of a joint statement from the CGA and MEAA regarding allegations of inappropriate conduct by non-CGA members.
In a social media post last Thursday, the organization said it was advised on actions that included abuse and exploitation of actors in audition settings and solicitation of actors to participate in cast workshops through mechanisms such as wardrobe shape and rejection notifications. A similar complaint has also been filed with the ACCC.
The MEAA and CGA statements did not name non-CGA members. If you have not proposed fraud by Higginbotham or her agency.
Higginbotham, who founded an agency of the same name 25 years ago, has worked in reality television and screenplay series, short films, commercials and feature films.
She is also known for her workshop series. This includes sessions conducted one-to-one or via Zoom.
In an email sent to the actor earlier this year, she said, “We provided a six-month personalized mentoring program. She offered a six-month personalized mentoring program that included “six one-on-one sessions (3 costs)” for a $1,000 price that focuses on portfolio development, self-tape feedback, audition practices and agent advice.
According to the email, the program includes finding a cast for six months and a free US accent workshop. The email thanked the actors for auditions for the campaign, saying that while they have not made any progress, they believe they have “great potential” and “love to be mentored.”
In a casting statement for Toni Higginbotham, the agency said that while it is a standard practice within the industry for casting experts to contribute both to training and casting, the longtime casting director acknowledged the industry’s concerns that have been raised.
“(Toni) maintains active membership and affiliation with major industry organizations and professional partners, ensuring that her work reflects best practices, ethical integrity, and the evolving benchmarks of the casting and screen industry,” the statement said.
“She is committed to maintaining the highest level of professionalism, transparency and ethical industry behaviour, making it extremely important to ensure that auditioners feel respected, endorsed and never misunderstood through the casting process.
The statement said Higginbotham is confident that her actions were “guided by integrity.”
“In maintaining a secure, purpose-driven database, Toni is committed to promoting industry connections and supporting the development of next-generation creatives,” the statement read.
“Toni chose to suspend industry workshops while conducting a comprehensive review of her agency practices.
“Toni continues to commit to open and constructive dialogue with colleagues and stakeholders across the industry, and will take all appropriate steps to address concerns and strengthen her confidence in her work.”
