Casting agency FILM CASTING BG is conducting a series of interviews with people who have roles in “Lying Rhymes”. Everyone receives the same questions, and the answers are published unedited. Subscribe to the “Lying Rhymes” YOUTUBE channel, where you will be able to watch the series online – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMPCTqcf5dUdVy8y-FYayTQ Interview with Atanas Kolev – appearing in “Lying Rhymes”. 1. Tell us briefly about yourself. I was born in Ruse in 1969. I graduated from an economics technical school and then from the Conservatory’s pop music department, specialising in singing. Since 1990, I have worked in my profession as a performing artist. I am currently in my fourth year of acting studies in the class of Snezhina Petrova and Tsvetana Maneva. 2. Was this your first casting, and did you think you would be selected? Yes, it was my first casting. It was very difficult for me because I have been an established performer all these years, with enormous confidence in my profession. Snezhina explained that acting is different and attending castings is normal. I knew they would like me because I have 30 years of experience and the practised skills of a performer, and I am now an acting student too. I knew they liked me at the first casting, and I was absolutely sure that at the second casting, in front of the director, they did NOT like me. I think I have always kept my feet on the ground and seen things realistically. 3. What do you think about paid castings, and have you taken part in any? No, I have never attended paid castings. I do not know what to think of them, but I am being selfish again here. In the arts, I am used to being paid. I do not know; perhaps something very big might tempt me to pay for it, if I have understood the question correctly. 4. What do you think of the reports by “Gospodari na Efira” that tried to tarnish the series’ name, and what would you say to people who believe them? About Gospodari... well, I know show business from the inside, so it is all clear to me, but until you know the reality, you can never be sure. Since I have now met the series’ teams, I can say they are wonderful professionals and everything is very honest and above board. So do not believe the rubbish poured out about the series. It is all commissioned. 5. What emotions did you experience at the casting and during filming? This is my first time filming. This series is my debut, and I know bigger roles await me because I achieve whatever goal I set myself. Such a lovely feeling! I met and became friends with the wonderful team, and we liked one another. 6. How would you describe the organisation of the casting campaign and the filming of “Lying Rhymes”? The entire organisation of both casting and filming was incredibly professional. My admiration. 7. Why do you think the same familiar faces appear in most Bulgarian productions? I could say a lot about this, but I will not. Being popular does not mean they are all talented. Naturally, though, if they are well known in the media, they will attract viewers. I insist you invite me on television to discuss this if there is a programme about the series; I would be glad to talk. 8. From your experience, do you know of many cases where Bulgarian producers give new and unproven faces a chance? Yes, I personally do the same in music. I have always supported giving new faces a chance across show business. After that, it is up to them, but everyone should get a chance. 9. Would you recommend the casting agency Film Casting BG, and why? Yes, with full responsibility, because this agency puts its heart and soul into everything! Look out for the first Bulgarian hip-hop series, “Lying Rhymes”, in September 2018. The production is produced by Plovdiwood Ent. and Devil Cinema. You can apply for the new productions, the reality show “I Am Becoming a Star” and the children’s and teen series “Talent Academy”, at www.akademiazatalanti.com. These productions are produced by Exclusive Media Entertainment.