My Audition as a Peaky Blinders Extra: A First-Hand Account from Birmingham
"Are you here for the Peaky Blinders casting?" inquired the receptionist at Birmingham Hippodrome, adding, "They will let you through in about an hour." I couldn't help but think that Tommy Shelby would never have been told to wait in a queue. The creators of the acclaimed West Midlands period gangster series, Peaky Blinders, are seeking extras for the upcoming seventh series, hosting an open casting session at Birmingham Repertory Theatre.
The Queue and Hopefuls
Doors opened at 9 a.m., and by 10 a.m., the line stretched into the neighboring library. Casting agency Lucas Extras had invited individuals with a 1950s look, a description my colleagues amusingly thought fit me. Some attendees dressed for the part in tweeds and flat caps, while others arrived in casual attire. Among the early arrivals was Luke Icke, 33, from Bilston, who saw it as an interesting experience, saying, "I like to put myself into uncomfortable situations." He noted that hair styling wasn't a concern, as professionals would handle it if selected.
Georgina Kerr-Jones, 26, from Cheslyn Hay, shared her enthusiasm, recalling that she was just 13 when Cillian Murphy debuted as Tommy Shelby. She emphasized the show's regional significance, stating, "It's just iconic; everywhere you go, if you say you're from the Midlands, people will say 'ooh Peaky Blinders.' To be actually involved with it would be really cool." She added that the series has elevated Birmingham's profile on the map.
My Attempt at the Look
Although my wardrobe lacks a razor-blade-sewn flat cap, I opted for an old beret, hoping to mimic a Peaky's cap, and wore a big overcoat for a menacing effect. In hindsight, the beret made me resemble an effete art teacher rather than a gangster, but I perfected my scowl, which helped me navigate the queue without much argument. I even tried some ham acting by picking a fight with another hopeful.
The Swift Casting Process
Once inside, the process was surprisingly quick. After a brief wait in a hospital-like waiting area, I confirmed my application details at a desk. Then, I was taken for a mugshot, where I gave my best scowl, amusing our photographer Steve, who thought I was taking method acting too far. Next, my measurements—height, chest, shoe size, and waist—were taken by Sienna and Sophia from Lichfield, who politely recorded the details despite my protest about my waist size.
Jordan Natt from Lewis Extras, which organized the session, reported about 200 people had attended in the first few hours, praising the turnout and organization. He said, "We will make sure Birmingham is represented on the screen here in the UK." Within minutes, the casting was over, with terms and conditions reviewed, but no requests for a Brummie accent or fighting skills.
Post-Audition Reflections
Back at the office, I received texts confirming my availability for potential roles, such as a doctor, police officer, or canal-boat family member, though a kissing couple part might be too advanced for now. If not selected, I joked about starting my own rival firm. The experience highlighted the community's passion for the series and the efficient casting efforts in Birmingham.
