Casting Call for a New Talent Show Is Coming to Rhode Island

Calling all performers, singers, and dreamers!

A new show and live production pilot is coming to Rhode Island this winter, giving creatives a shot at fulfilling the ultimate dream—a chance at stardom.

An open casting call for The Search 2025 will be held on Saturday, September 13^th at the Elliotte on Park in Cranston as the production team looks for New England’s 25 best acts that will compete to represent the region and for a shot at making their dream come true.

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The Team Behind The Search 2025

Cranston native Ed Brady is a visionary who is constantly putting Rhode Island and the local area on the map with exciting new projects. He played a large role in getting Good Burger 2 to film in Rhode Island, and now, he has his sights on giving local talent the ultimate exposure.

Courtesy of Ed Brady

“Rhode Island is known as the creative capital and we have so many local, talented artists that deserve the opportunity to have their talents and work showcased on a national platform,” he said. “We are thankful and blessed to have the opportunity to work with some amazing people who are coming together throughout music, comedy, dance and entertainment. Many artists are excited to come home to support and uplift our local Rhode Island creative & art scene.”

Kara McKee and Johnny Gates, both former contestants on The Voice, will act as co-producers and celebrity judges for the show.

Courtesy of Ed Brady

Gates is now the owner of his own music label in Nashville, but his journey started in Rhode Island, just like the contestants he will be judging.

“The local music scene in and around the suburbs of Providence allowed a lot of us to turn a dream into a reality,” he said. “I think community is extremely important for artists because it puts a spotlight on the talent and that’s what we’re trying to do here…We’ve had some exciting success stories come out of this state, and to be honest, most have been underdogs. Maybe it’s a Rhode Island thing, but hopefully the artists out there will see this as an opportunity to take another step on their adventure. Calling all underdogs.”

Ericka Atwell Cardona, the founder of EJOYA Productions, joins the celebrity judge panel, who is looking forward to giving an opportunity to deserving Rhode Island talent.

Courtesy of Ed Brady

“It’s always inspiring to witness local talent and help give it a platform to shine — and trust me, New England has plenty of it,” she said. “When your gift comes from within, no one can take it from you, but talent needs opportunity, and success comes from the shots you’re willing to take. That’s why I’m passionate about being a judge. With my background in casting and Hollywood, I know how to offer feedback that actually helps creatives grow. I’m excited to see the acts that step up — this is where passion meets purpose."

What to Expect at The Search Casting Call

On Saturday, September 13^th from 11 am to 3 pm, an open casting call will take place at The Elliotte inside the Historic Park Theatre in Cranston.

Courtesy of Ed Brady

Video submissions are currently being accepted by email at TheSearchNewEngland@gmail.com or contestants can sign up through email to audition at the casting call. There is no fee to enter.

The production team will narrow down the contestants to the 25 best acts who will represent the region on The Search.

"There will be over $5,000 in sponsored prizes awarded to the New England winner at the Rhode Island finale of the pilot and there will be many opportunities for artists to be heard and mentored by top artists and industry executives," said Brady.

The minimum age for submission is 13 and there is no age limit.

Think of The Search as the New England version of America’s Got Talent. A Grand Prize is on the table, 'Golden Anchors' will be awarded, and surprise performers will make their mark.

Once the pilot takes off, The Search has the potential to become a national hit.

Stay tuned for announcements on surprise performances, celebrity guests, and more.

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