40 performing arts students from the Isle of Wight attended a unique workshop with the West End’s leading casting director for children and young people, Jo Hawes, earlier this month.
The workshop, organised by Theatretrain, was specifically aimed at the art of auditioning, helping to empower children and understand what creative teams are looking for, how to behave and use their nerves.
Split into 2 age groups of 7-12 years and 12 years+, Jo was able to guide the children and advise about the audition process. In an industry where they only have a short time to show their considerable talents, it included a wealth of other practical information.
Jo said to the Isle of Wight group:
“I was not intending to teach the children how to sing, dance and act – they already know that but I did want to really help them develop good audition technique”.
Julie Caudle, who has run Theatretrain on the Isle of Wight for the past 17 years, said:
“I was delighted when Jo agreed to come over to the Island and take the workshops. You don’t often get the opportunity to host a top profile casting director such as Jo, and she is the lady who makes the decisions so the students would hear first-hand.
“The students came out absolutely buzzing and full of valuable information for when auditioning for high profile drama schools or attending audition”
Article continues below this advertisement
Theatretrain is already in discussion with other industry professionals and will be organising further exciting workshops next year. If you or your child are interested in knowing more then contact Theatretrain Isle of Wight, or pop along and see the children perform Cinderella at Medina Theatre, Newport on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th December.
