Hello from Manchester!
Back in Manchester, folks! Portugal was a blast, but there's no place like being back in north England—especially when it's a quick hop away. The flight was a breeze, and before I knew it, I was back in my element.
My cozy Airbnb is conveniently close to the metro, making my jaunts to the City Center a breeze. Speaking of hustle, I hit the ground running with not one but two student film gigs—one is a horror film that was shot at night in the cold, damp wet forest; and the other is a goofy dad character - talk about range!
Plus, I got those fresh headshots done, so I'm feeling like a whole new me. But it's not all work; England's history, train rides, and scenic countryside have got me buzzing with excitement.
So much to explore, and this adventure is just getting started!
Manchester Cathedral
Manchester Cathedral, a beacon of history and spirituality in the heart of the city, stands as a testament to the architectural marvels of the past. The cathedral's exterior boasts intricate Gothic, while the interior offers a sense of tranquility and reverence with stunning stained glass windows and ornate ceilings.
Adjacent to this grand structure is the striking Gandhi statue, a symbol of peace and resilience. It was unveiled in 2019 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Gandhi's birth in 1869. The statue marks Gandhi's visit to the city in 1931 en route to visit mill workers in Lancashire.
Together, these landmarks create a harmonious blend of culture, art, and spirituality, inviting all who visit to pause and appreciate the beauty that surrounds them in the bustling city of Manchester.
The Royal Exchange Theater
The Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester opened in 1976, and is housed in a historic building famous for its circular "in the round" theater design. This unique setup offers an immersive and intimate experience for audiences, complemented by the grandeur of the iconic domed ceiling. The theatre hosts a variety of productions, from classic plays to contemporary works, making it a significant cultural hub in Manchester. Additionally, the adjacent Royals restaurant provides a stylish dining experience, perfect for enhancing a day or evening at the theatre.
Did You Get That? - Student Film
I had the incredible opportunity to join a student film project through Salford University here in Manchester. Being a part of their three-year film school program was a privilege, especially collaborating with these talented second-year students on a horror film. From the moment I met the director, I had full confidence in the project's potential for excellence. Crafting a horror film involves intricate special effects work, but the team's dedication to detail truly paid off—the film, from its visuals to its sound design and effects, exceeded expectations. While the film is complete, it's currently being submitted to various horror film festivals, so it's not yet available to the public. Although it may take some time before it's widely shared, I'm excited to offer a glimpse behind the scenes with some of my favorite snapshots from the production process!
"Did You Get That?" - Synopsis: Ross begins to question the morality of having a narcissistic non-believer as a co-host on his supernatural investigation show. When they learn rumors of a demonic force in the woods are true, they must flee from the creature they sought out.
Actor Headshots
It's headshot update time again! Yup, that's right—I recently headed back to my go-to photographer for a fresh round of snaps. And let me tell you, actor headshots are like our secret weapon in the biz! They're our first chance to dazzle casting directors and agents, showcasing our vibe and talent in one killer shot. From the soft smirk to the full-on intensity, each expression paints a picture of the characters we can become and the tales we're itching to share. So here's to another year of capturing our essence and chasing those dreams!
Bob Tapper: Life Abroad, a documentary travel podcast
For a more indepth look into my life abroad, you can always listen to my most recent podcasts - and don't forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!
Finally...
This is my fourth year here in the north of England, and I've noticed a trend – March and April seem to be prime months for snagging acting gigs in student films. With Manchester being a hotspot for creative types at the many schools and universities here, there's no shortage of opportunities for filmmakers to cut their teeth. From first year to graduates, everyone's scrambling to wrap up their projects before May hits. That means plenty of chances for actors to get in on the action, especially if they've got an American English accent like mine.
But as we head into May and the summer months, things tend to quiet down. Schools are out, and the pace slows. So while I'll still be on the lookout for work, it's probably a good idea to find other ways to fill the time. Up here in the north of England, there's plenty to explore – maybe it's time to hit the road and see what this beautiful landscape has to offer.
I really appreciate those who have been reading this blog. Thanks for following along!
ACTOR // FILMMAKER // TRAVEL BLOGGER
Bob Tapper
actorbobtapper@gmail.com
Outside US: +01 9494846275
Inside US: (949) 484-6275