What I’ll be looking for on the panel, and my tips for young
performers

I’m delighted to be joining the Perform 4 Good Audition Panel on the day at 2:30pm–5:00pm in Room B. The question I’m asked most is “what do agents actually look for?”, so here is my honest answer, along with a few tips to take on stage with you.

What I’ll be looking for
Enjoyment. I want to see someone who genuinely wants to be there. Enthusiasm can’t be faked, and it’s the first thing I notice.
You being you. Natural beats polished every time. Don’t copy anyone else, because nobody else can do it like you.
Listening. If you’re asked to try something again a different way, take a breath and give it a go. Taking direction matters more than getting it perfect first time.
Preparation. Know your piece or your lines properly, so you can relax into it.
Kindness. How you treat the people around you counts. Agents and casting teams notice the manners of both performers and parents.
Bouncing back. Everyone has a wobble. What I really want to see is how you carry on afterwards.

Tips for young performers

1. Choose something you love and know inside out.
2. Practise out loud, in front of family or friends, not only in your head.
3. Take a breath before you begin, and give yourself a second to settle.
4. If something goes wrong, keep going. Most people won’t even notice.
5. Say thank you, and be kind to everyone, from the other performers to the team behind
the scenes.
6. Remember that a no on the day isn’t a no forever. Keep learning and keep having fun.

A note for parents
Let your child lead, keep it light, and celebrate the bravery of getting up there rather than the result. Children perform best when they feel supported, not pressured.

If you spot me around the Expo, come and say hello.

Bonnie Lia
Founder and Managing Director, Bonnie and Betty Agency