Check out what these actors had to say after our latest Business of Acting workshop! Join our newsletter to find out about our next workshop opportunity, or email [email protected] to inquire on private coaching.
Another year in the books with @background.work and what an incredible one it’s been. As highlighted in BetaKit, Background Work started like many great startups, solving a real problem in a specific niche by creating an easy, intuitive way for production companies to source background performers for Canadian shoots.
For over 20 years, Smyth Casting has been connecting productions with top-tier background performers. Background Work has taken that experience to the next level, streamlining admin, improving efficiency, and making the booking process seamless for both production and performers.
2025 was an amazing year, helping us book major projects like Shoresy, and we’re so excited for what’s ahead in 2026.
Interested in becoming a background actor this year? Head to backgroundwork.com and sign up now!
To read the whole article head to /meet-the-tech-startup-casting-extras-for-shoresy-hot-frosty-and-other-canadian-hits/
As our final productions of the year wrap and our team prepares for a well-deserved holiday break, we sincerely thank our community of performers and production partners for another record-breaking year. We have lots more in development for 2026, but until then, Happy Holidays from the Smyth Casting team!
✨ I’m so excited to share that I’ve been featured in the October issue of Center Stage magazine by theWorkbook (formerly known as Casting Workbook) 🎉
It feels like the perfect moment to pause and look back on how far this journey has come. From the early days of Smyth Casting to where we are now.
Over the years, we’ve grown from a small, local operation into one of the leading casting companies in the country, with a continued focus on building lasting relationships and creating opportunities that reflect the diversity and strength of our industry.
Casting has always been more than a career for me; it’s a passion rooted in connection, storytelling, and seeing people shine when they’re given the right opportunity.
Being included in a publication that celebrates the heart of our industry truly means a lot.
I’m proud of the work we’ve done, the growth we’ve achieved, and the incredible people who continue to inspire me every day.
- Ilona
To read the article visit the link in bio.
Ottawa Tourism's Magic on Set was screened last night at TIFF Lightbox!
This holiday short takes viewers into an Ottawa film set and showcases why Ottawa is quickly becoming a prime film location.
The short is filled with Canadian talent such as Melinda Shankar (Degrassi), Chad Connell (Degrassi), Sarah McVie (Workin' Moms), Simba Yakibonge, Jamie Fine, Stefan Keyes, Katie Hession, and Maeve Georgeson. As well as local Ottawa background performers.
You can watch Magic on Set Novemeber 4th on Ottawa Tourism's YouTube channel, or as in flight entertainment on Air Canada.
We're proud to have taken part in this production and in promoting Ottawa as a prime film destination.
@ottawatourism@mindyshankar@sarahmcvie@jamiefinemusic
We had the pleasure of working with Ottawa Tourism and Background Work on this Ottawa themed rom-com.
Ottawa's film industry is growing, and we are proud to have played a part in its continued growth. For more information, please see the link in our bio!
Thrilled that Adulthood is part of this incredible lineup! Our team can’t wait to attend the TIFF premiere and see all our hard work come to life on the big screen. Huge congratulations to everyone who made this happen!
Check out the full article at the link in our bio ☝️
🎬 Canadian roots + Hollywood voices at MoMA > any Friday night binge.
Have you watched The Studio yet?
This past March, I had the privilege of attending an In Conversation With screening of The Studio at the The Museum of Modern Art in NYC. Hosted by Apple TV+
Seth Rogen seemed to pay homage to his Canadian roots through the incredible talent involved, including Sarah Polley (who I watched religiously as a kid on Road to Avonlea) and Catherine O’Hara (no references needed).
Seth spoke about his take on actors taking creative risks on set, which was both insightful and refreshing. Hearing perspectives from Bryan Cranston, Kathryn Hahn, Ike Barinholtz, Chase Sui Wonders , Keyla Monterroso Mejia , and Dewayne Perkins made the evening even more memorable.
Grateful for the opportunity to be in the room, to witness the artistry, and to reflect on the power of storytelling.
And of course, thank you to the best plus one @dawnsmyth13 💖
- Ilona Smyth
