'Once Upon a Riot' casts Sam Hollis in the role of 'Lee Cooper'...

Dreamotion Studios and Broken Flames Productions are absolutely delighted to announce; Sam Hollis has been cast in the role of 'Lee Cooper' on the 'Once Upon a Riot' film project. Sam's audition journey was very unique, in that he originally read for the role of 'Justin' when the production was seeking an American actor in the UK. And although that particular role was eventually cast in the United States, Sam wowed the director and producers with his diverse skills and ability, and he was invited to audition for the role of 'Lee'. Which, as you can see, went exceptionally well. Sam's casting story illustrates the audition path may appear to end abruptly, or take you an unexpected detour, but it doesn't necessarily mean your journey towards being part of the project is concluding. Sometimes, the path may twist and turn, or you may be invited to take an alternative route. But the destination, although perhaps different from the original vision, may still be glorious or even exceed the original expectations. In this case, Sam's talent and overall fit for the role resulted in him being cast as 'Lee'. And we are excited to work with him.

Congratulations and welcome to the cast, Sam!

Sincerely and with happy hearts,

Paul James (writer/director), Connie Jo, Ella and Maya (producers).

We would also like to thank the many wonderful and talented actors who submitted and auditioned for this role. We truly wish we had roles for you all. Thank you!

Sam Hollis Official Bio:

Sam trained at ArtsEd, graduating in 2021. He made his professional debut shortly after, playing Demetrius, Tom Snout and Mustardseed in 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream' at Petersfield Shakespeare Festival. He has performed with the company since 2014, including roles as Orlando, As You Like It; Dromio of Ephesus, The Comedy of Errors; Montjoy / Bourbon/ Thomas Grey, Henry V; and Fleance, Macbeth. He will also be appearing as Don John in their 2022 production of 'Much Ado About Nothing' later this summer.

Film credits include: Kemi, directed by Jack Ryder and Skin for Channel 4 Random Acts.

Rehearsed Reading: Writer’s Block, directed by Jake Smith.

​Credits whilst training include: White Lies, The Curlew, Love and Information, The Colour of Justice, Romeo and Juliet, Picnic, Uncle Vanya, When Harry Met Sally, You've Got Mail.

He is also a member of National Youth Theatre and recently worked on devising a new piece of writing, Fixed at Park Theatre.

He’s delighted to be playing Lee in Once Upon A Riot.