Only children with good school grades are cast on JDC TV series, reveals producer

The casting process for the popular television series Junior Drama Club (JDC) has always intrigued audiences. Noteworthy for its ensemble of established celebrities like Bruno K, Stellah Nantumbwe (former Miss Uganda), Gaetano Kagwa, and Moses Kiboneka, the series also captivates viewers with its younger cast, led by Tyra Abok, continuing to be a focal point in both the first and recently launched second season on January 4, 2024.

Addressing the criteria for selecting child actors for the series, Nisha Kalema, one of the show's producers, explained that class performance is a crucial factor, coupled with other attributes such as talent, confidence, and acting abilities.

"We understand that despite being actors, they still need education, and our focus is to elevate their education too. In this case, class performance determines whether one should be taken on or not," Kalema said during a space organised by Cinema Ug on January 11, 2024.

Moreover, Kalema mentioned the uncertainty faced by child actors regarding their role continuity throughout the series.

If their academic performance drops, they may not be considered for other seasons. She highlighted the challenges these young actors face, juggling their responsibilities as both scholars and actors. She shared that during shooting, child actors sometimes miss classes, necessitating tutors to help them catch up on missed topics.

In addition to academic commitments, Kalema underscored the demanding nature of the actors' roles. Beyond studying, they must familiarise themselves with the series' scripts, understanding their characters and rehearsing extensively to embody their roles.

Despite these challenges, Kalema expressed admiration for how these young talents effectively balance academics, rehearsals, and performances, often surpassing their older counterparts.

Kalema also shed light on the burdens placed on the children's guardians, who navigate the logistics of bringing them to the set, taking them to school, and arranging tutoring sessions when needed.

She encouraged parents not to give up on their children, but to continue supporting their pursuits, recognising the potential impact on their future.

Junior Drama Club narrates the lives of young scholars, depicting their experiences at school, struggles for power within various groups, and the challenges they face academically. The series also delves into the lives of the scholars' parents, highlighting their efforts to secure school fees and support their children in their academic endeavors.

Produced by Allan Allan Manzi and Kalema, the show stands as a testament to the dedication and resilience of its young actors.