Maynooth acting sensation Paul Mescal is the protagonist of a new short film inspired by the events of 2020, featuring the acclaimed actor performing a contemporary dance routine.

The Emmy-nominated Normal People star and former Lir Academy pupil can be seen dancing in a 90-second Lockdown film to launch Samsung Spotlight.

The film marks the launch of a new campaign that aims to support performers in the arts who have been adversely affected by the impact of the pandemic.

Mescal, who was recently named Breakthrough Actor of the Year, choreographed the dance performance to communicate the emotions and feelings he felt during quarantine.

The County Kildare 24-year-old said that his dance routine channelled his feelings of frustration during the period.

“Movement is something I loved doing at drama school and that I’ve missed doing since entering the industry, but this project took me totally out of my comfort zone as I am not a dancer.”

“There are thousands of performers in the arts industry that have been affected by the closures of theatres, venues and stages who have and are going through an incredibly challenging time," he added.

“I’m really proud to launch Samsung Spotlight, which aims to help performers by giving them a platform to showcase their talents.”

Artists in Ireland and the UK are encouraged to submit short audition clips of any artistic style, including acting, singing, dancing, physical theatre, mime, poetry or other forms of self-expression as long as they are a completely original piece of work.

Three winners will be selected by Paul, who will then have their performances showcased on Samsung’s in-store screens and digital channels and will feature in a new online ad.

In early December, Mescal also starred in the music video for 'Savior Complex', a track from the Grammy-nominated artist Phoebe Bridgers.

The song features on Bridgers' acclaimed album Punisher, released earlier this year, with Fleabag creator Phoebe Waller-Bridge tapped to direct the clip.

Watch the new Lockdown performance from Mescal below: