Stages Is Coming: Alex Garland Produces as Sonoya Mizuno Makes Her Directorial Debut
A new A24-backed project is in development, and it’s one performers should pay attention to early. Titled Stages, the film brings together two familiar collaborators in a new way: Sonoya Mizuno is stepping into the director’s chair for her feature directorial debut, while filmmaker Alex Garland is attached as a producer.
For actors and creatives watching the indie film space, this combination is notable. When A24 aligns with a distinct creative voice and a strong producing team, it’s often the type of project that builds momentum quickly once it moves closer to production.
What Is Stages?
Details are still limited, but Stages is being developed through Film4 and A24, and the story is said to be inspired by Mizuno’s background in dance. While plot specifics remain under wraps, the dance influence strongly suggests a film that may lean into physical storytelling, performance, and expressive character work.
That’s important for talent, because projects rooted in movement often create opportunities for performers with dance training, choreography experience, theater backgrounds, or strong physical acting ability.
Sonoya Mizuno’s Directorial Debut: From Dance to the Director’s Chair
Before directing Stages, Sonoya Mizuno built a career both as a dancer and as a screen performer. She trained at the Royal Ballet School in London and danced professionally before becoming known for her film and television work.
Mizuno has appeared in projects such as Ex Machina, Crazy Rich Asians, Annihilation, La La Land, and House of the Dragon. Now, she’s expanding her creative role by developing and directing a feature inspired by her own experience with performance and dance.
Director debuts are especially worth tracking because they can bring new casting preferences and fresh perspectives. First-time directors often champion unique faces, unconventional choices, and authentic performances, especially when the project is personal.
Alex Garland Produces Stages and Why That Matters
Alex Garland’s attachment as producer is a meaningful signal for the film’s creative direction and credibility. Garland has a strong history with A24 and is known for ambitious, elevated storytelling. He also has an established creative relationship with Mizuno, dating back to Ex Machina and their collaboration on the FX/Hulu series Devs.
That kind of repeat partnership often indicates trust and creative alignment, which can help a project move from early development into production more smoothly.
The Producing Team Behind Stages
Beyond Garland and Mizuno, the project also lists producers including Peter Rice, along with Agile Films’ Myles Payne and Sam Ritzenberg. When a film has a clearly defined producing team this early, it can be a sign that packaging is underway and the project has structure behind the scenes.
For performers, that matters because strong packaging can lead to quicker progress on key milestones like casting and crew hiring.
Why Stages Matters for Actors and Creatives
Even without casting announcements yet, Stages stands out for a few reasons:
- It’s supported by major indie players (A24 and Film4), which often means strong visibility once released.
- It’s driven by a director’s debut, which can create opportunities for new talent.
- It’s influenced by dance and performance, which may open doors for movement-forward roles and specialists.
If the film leans into dance as a thematic or structural element, it could also create opportunities beyond on-camera roles, including choreography, movement coaching, dance doubles, and performance consulting.
When Will Stages Be Released?
There is no confirmed release date yet. Projects at this stage typically move through development, scheduling, and casting before a timeline becomes public. The most important updates to watch for next are:
- casting announcements
- production start news
- distributor release plans and festival strategy
How to Prepare Now for Stages-Type Opportunities
If you want to get considered for projects like Stages, focus on preparation that helps you respond quickly when auditions open:
- Update your headshots, resume, and reel so they reflect your most current look and skills.
- Highlight special skills like dance styles, movement, stage combat, gymnastics, or choreography experience.
- Stay active and apply consistently, because many opportunities appear with short turnaround times.
Casting Call: A24’s ‘Stages’ Open Casting Call for Dancers
Young Female Ballet Dancers for Feature Film (Paid Roles)
Job Description
A feature film project is casting young female ballet dancers of East Asian descent for a film set in a UK ballet school. Filming is scheduled for summer 2026, and casting will take place in the UK in early 2026. This opportunity is open to UK- and Ireland-based dancers, and no prior acting experience is required—strong ballet ability is essential.
Job Responsibilities
- Perform ballet on camera as part of a narrative feature film
- Follow direction from the director and choreography team
- Maintain professionalism during rehearsals, fittings, and filming days
- Work comfortably in a structured ballet school setting on set
Requirements
- Female ballet dancers, ages 10–14
- Of East Asian descent
- Must be based in the UK or Ireland
- Ballet training/ability required (acting experience not required)
- Parent/guardian able to support submissions and production needs
Compensation
- Paid roles (rate provided upon selection)
Apply for Acting Jobs on Project Casting
If you’re ready to find your next role, Project Casting is where you can discover acting auditions and entertainment jobs in film, TV, and streaming. Create or update your profile, submit to opportunities that match your skills, and stay ready for projects like Stages as announcements roll out.
Apply now on Project Casting to get started.
