Hallie Mckeig – Theatrical Agent 

Hallie has helmed Filmbites for over 15 years and launched the careers of some of Australia’s most up and coming actors. 

With a deep love of story and character, Hallie believes her job is two fold. One to provide the best support for the artist as they develop and create a career in this industry and two, to help productions find their characters.

When looking for actors to represent, Hallie is looking for heart and truthfulness. People who have a genuine love of story and are bold enough to be vulnerable in telling that story. When an actor can find a connection with the character and be truthful to their circumstance, magic is created.

Hallie continues to be an active member of the screen industry and is currently on the board of WIFT, Women in Film and Television as well as a senior manager at Creative Soul Management.

Hallie is currently not taking on any new clients.

Cat Jones – Theatrical Youth Agent

Filmbites Alumni, Cat knows the importance of a supportive community in the industry, and aims to bring this into her work with Filmbites students and actors alike.

Cat has studied both performance and filmmaking across instituions such as WAAPA, The University of Notre Dame & The University of Melbourne. The knowledge she accrued through her studies allows Cat to bring a well-rounded & informed approach to her work.

Cat works as a Youth Theatrical Agent alongside Hallie to support & nurture our actors.

Shanta Surendran – Youth Talent Coordinator

Shanta has worked with screen actors for over 15 years as an acting coach, course trainer, and course creator. Shanta has genuine interest in and enthusiasm for each actor’s journey, growth and experience. Her aim is to support actors towards long-term and beneficial outcomes – both personal and professional.

Shanta offers guidance in casting understanding and readiness, audition preparation and ongoing development. Shanta is committed to imparting genuine respect, love for and joy in stories and the craft of acting as the foundation for an enjoyable and positive experience within the industry. She is a strong advocate for including personal awareness in acting development and audition processes to empower the actor through the often difficult and uncertain world of casting.

In addition to working with youth talent in casting Shanta is also an experienced screen acting coach working with youth and adults. She is the head coach at Filmbites Screen Academy as well as senior screen trainer at Nicholson’s Academy of Screen Acting and works as screen acting instructor at WAAPA summer school. 

Shanta also works often as an acting coach and reader for national and international casting as well as a regular reader for Jane Norris Casting. These opportunities have been an avenue for Shanta to continue building understanding and experience to benefit students.