The Bay's cultural rise has been recognised by the formation of an agency for area's actors.
Tauranga's first agency representing local actors has just launched, a sign of confidence in the wealth of talent in the area.
Bay of Plenty Actors founder Tanya Horo is a celebrated artist with more than 15 years' experience as an actor, singer and writer. You might recognise Tanya from her recurring role as Miss Lucy in a series of high-profile commercials for House of Travel.
Tanya is enthusiastic about her latest project: developing and representing the wealth of talent we have right here in the Bay.
"We have a thriving population growth and a diverse and growing artistic community. I've been so impressed with the acting talent here and am passionate about using my networks to connect people to exciting jobs. "I also want to maximise the role technology can play in allowing actors to be seen by agents without geographical limitation."
Local talent includes actors with impressive domestic and international TV commercial experience, short and feature film experience, actors that speak several languages, stunt doubles and presenters.
"We sent out our website [bopactors.nz] to casting agencies last week and the initial reaction has been very positive, with them supporting the initiative - as it allows them to be exposed to new up-and-coming talent," she says.
Remote auditions are common within the industry around the world and Bay of Plenty Actors will utilise this casting medium where appropriate for placements in film and TV.
"These auditions involve filming the actor/s in Tauranga and sending the clip off to the casting agency outside of the region, ensuring the distance doesn't interfere with selecting the very best person for the role." Tracey Rudduck-Gudsell, chief executive of Creative Tauranga, says it is fantastic this opportunity has arrived in Tauranga.
"We have such a variety of amazing local performing arts talent; this is raising the bar once again within the arts community to showcase the excellence that exists right here. I know Tanya will have some incredible local talent to work with and I can't wait to see what opportunities she opens up for them," she says.
Tanya has had the privilege of being involved in the creative industries of New Zealand, Australia and the United States and has gained a solid understanding of how the entertainment business works.
With television roles in Shortland Street and Jackson's Wharf behind her, most recently she was lead in the feature film The Z-Nail Gang, a crowdfunded production filmed in the Bay of Plenty last year.
We look forward to representing more actors in the Bay and helping put them on the map
A multi-talented performer, she made her debut in New Zealand as a singer and songwriter, releasing music under the name of Marvey King before moving to Sydney where she formed indie-pop band Sherlock's Daughter.
She spent three years touring with the group around the United States, as well as performing solo gigs around the New York City live music scene.
Not many agents are actors, so Tanya brings a different perspective, one that the actors appreciate. "I'm committed to sharing my knowledge, skills, experience and nurturing local talent to achieve success in New Zealand and internationally."
Tanya is also working with the Film Collective in Tauranga, which will see people joining together to discuss films in the Bay - how to get them made and learning new film-making skills and techniques, and scriptwriting.
"It's great to have group of passionate people progressing this section of the arts community together and a wonderful opportunity for the actors to up-skill and network. Our mission is to help our actors chart their own unique path, to develop their craft and to achieve their full individual potential.
The agency's actors can expect to receive a personalised and hands-on management style as well as access to a programme of specialised skills and technique workshops throughout the year.
"We look forward to representing more actors in the Bay and helping put them on the map," Tanya says.