Samsung UK Launches ‘Samsung Spotlight’ – a New Initiative to Support Emerging Performing Artists

LONDON, UK – 16^th December, 2020 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd today announced the launch of Samsung Spotlight, a new initiative which is set to support performing artists in the wake of the pandemic, offering them a platform to showcase their skills and talents across the Nation.

The initiative was kicked-off with the release of a new film featuring acclaimed actor Paul Mescal performing a unique dance routine inspired by the events of 2020.

Mescal, who was recently named ‘Breakthrough Actor of the Year’ and rose to fame in the hit TV show ‘Normal People’, performs a 90-second contemporary dance composition in the film titled ‘Lockdown’, which sees him capture the mood of a tumultuous year. The entire performance was shot in ultra-high definition 8K video using only a Samsung Galaxy S20.

Paul Mescal’s – ‘Lockdown’ film was created to inspire performers around the UK & Ireland to take part in the initiative.

Tom Morey, Director of Corporate Marketing at Samsung UK said: “Following the events of this year and impact on the arts industry Samsung wanted to provide a spotlight for arts students and creators across the UK and Ireland who have had their stage taken away from them.

Samsung Spotlight has been created to give performers the opportunity to share their talents and get the chance to have their work shared with the world.” 

Paul Mescal said: “This project took me totally out of my comfort zone as I am not a dancer. Movement is something I loved doing at drama school and something that I’ve missed doing since entering the industry.

There are thousands of performers in the arts industry that have been affected by the closures of theatres, venues and stages who have and are going through an incredibly challenging time.

I’m really proud to launch Samsung Spotlight which aims to help young performers by giving them a platform to showcase their talents. I can’t wait to see what type of performances people come up with and I’m looking forward to judging the entries.”

Samsung Spotlight is open to all performance artists from across the UK & Ireland. Those wanting to get involved simply need to film their own 90 seconds audition-style performances and submit them via Instagram using the hashtag #SamsungSpotlight.

Performances can include any type of artistic style, such as dance, physical theatre, mime, self-expression, poetry or acting but must be completely original pieces of work.

The three winning performers will have their content displayed across Samsung’s digital channels, in-store screens and will feature in a new digital advert for the brand. Additionally, winners will receive a £5,000 cash prize, a Samsung Galaxy device, QLED 8K TV and a virtual meet and greet with the face of the campaign, Paul Mescal.

For more information on Samsung Spotlight and all Terms and Conditions visit http://www.samsung.com/uk/explore/kings-cross/creativity/samsung-spotlight/