Casting

Bring your brilliance, excellent qualities and good energy to a groundbreaking new kind of children's show. We are seeking a host for the pilot episode of The Bala Yana Show, an irreverent children's television show infused with the awesome wisdom of the dharma. Strong preference for Tibetan, Nepali, Sanskrit, or Mandarin speakers. Age and gender are secondary to being a quality human with charisma, charm, and genuine comfort interacting with kids. Familiarity with Buddhism is a plus but not required. We welcome performers of all backgrounds — this role has no religious, ethnic, or cultural prerequisite.

Directional Tone: We're not looking for cutesy performances or stereotypical children's-show fare. We want real voices from people who are genuinely comfortable treating children as the wise, awakened beings they are. Your personality will help shape and define this host character, and there will be plenty of opportunity to collaborate with the producers. Show us your talents, hobbies, martial arts, dance, singing.

Project Type: Independent Children's Television Show
Union Status: Non-Union
Production Team: Bala Yana
Producers: Noa Jones and Andrea Palumbos
Audition Type: Video Submissions (Self-Tapes)
Submission Deadline: Friday, September 30, 2026, 11:59 PM EST
Shoot Location: Hudson Valley, NY
Shoot Date: October 20 or 21 exact day of filming TBD

Compensation: Copy, meals, credit, travel, and a $100 stipend

To Submit: Send a headshot, reel, and acting resume to noa@balayana.org. Selected candidates will receive a script for a self-taped audition.