India's first mobile acting academy to roll into small towns

New Delhi, May 30 (UNI) Those wanting to make a career in film need no longer travel all the way to Mumbai or Pune for training as the first mobile acting academy is set to come to their doorstep even in small towns and cities soon.

The academy, however, would not be operating out of a mobile van or any other vehicle. Instead, suitable premises would be hired for the duration of the course, lasting four to five weeks.

Jointly set up by film director Ravi Rai and famous comedian Kanwarjit Paintal, its motto is to reach out to talented persons living in remote areas. The course fee is pegged at the bare minimum expense of Rs 21,000, Mr Paintal told media persons here today.

"There is dearth of good actors. We are trying to find out talented persons. We hope that in the long run, our institution produces some fine actors," Mr Paintal said.

The academy will provide a four to five week crash course and a certificate on acting, writing and direction. It will also have a library.

The academy would try and recommend deserving candidates to well-known production houses help the students to create their resumes and portfolios.

The faculty will be led by Mr Paintal, who is also the head of the department of acting in the Film and television institute of India (FTII) in Pune. Mr Rai and several other teachers from Bollywood would be imparting training.

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