For many young actors, the world of auditions, self-tapes and filming can feel exciting, confusing and sometimes a little overwhelming. In this episode, The Drama Coach is joined by a very special guest: Lacey, an 11-year-old actor who has been balancing school, dance, training, auditions, self-tapes and time on set. The conversation offers a warm and honest look at what it can be like for a young performer starting to build experience. Lacey talks about nerves, confidence, learning lines, handling disappointment and the practical reality of fitting creative opportunities around everyday life.
Episode overview
Lacey begins by reflecting on her early experiences on student film sets. She describes the first day as exciting, but also nerve-racking, with new people, cameras, microphones and a lot to take in. Like many young performers, she found that meeting new people could make her feel shy at first, but that she warmed up as the experience went on. A key part of the conversation is how well young actors can be supported on set. Lacey explains that she felt well looked after, with people checking whether she was okay and making sure she could ask for anything she needed. The episode gently reminds parents and young actors that a positive set experience is not just about performance - it is also about feeling safe, comfortable and respected. The conversation also covers auditions connected to projects that cannot be discussed publicly. Lacey talks about how hard it can be to sign an NDA and then return to school unable to share exciting news with friends. The advice is practical: young actors can still say they are auditioning or have reached a certain stage, but they must not share protected details about the project, audition material or process.
Handling rejection without losing confidence
One of the most useful parts of the episode is the discussion around rejection. Lacey describes rejection in acting as not being chosen, rather than necessarily doing something wrong. Together, she and The Drama Coach explore the idea that casting is often about what is right for a particular project at a particular time. The flower analogy in the episode is especially helpful. If someone is choosing flowers for a person who loves purple, that does not mean the other flowers are any less beautiful. They are simply not the right choice for that moment. For young actors, this is a powerful way to understand casting: not getting a role does not mean they were not good enough. Lacey is honest that disappointment can still feel upsetting, especially when a young performer has worked hard or really wanted a part. Her advice to parents is thoughtful: allow the feelings to land first. Support the child, acknowledge that it is hard, and then help them move forward rather than brushing the feeling away too quickly.
Balancing school, dance and self-tapes
Another practical theme is routine. Lacey explains that keeping a routine helps her manage school, dance, auditions and line learning. When she knows she may need to miss something, she tries to prepare in advance, speak to teachers and work harder beforehand. For learning lines, she uses highlighting, repetition and recording herself. She reads the lines, turns the page over to test herself, and sometimes records her own voice so she can listen back and compare what she said with the script. It is a simple technique, but a useful one for young actors who may not always have an adult available to run lines with them. Self-tapes are another major part of Lacey's acting life. She says she often prefers self-tapes to in-person auditions because she can pause, start again and try another take if needed. At the same time, the episode recognises that in-person auditions can bring valuable connection and experience.
Parents, coaching and giving space
The episode also offers an honest parent-child perspective on working together. Lacey talks about the benefits of having her mum involved as a coach and chaperone because she knows what Lacey needs. But she also explains that sometimes it can feel easier when another trusted adult gives her more space to ask her own questions and get on with the job. For parents of young performers, this is a useful reminder. Support matters, but so does independence. Children may benefit from being gently encouraged to speak up, ask questions and build their own confidence in professional spaces.
Theatre, inspiration and seeing the bigger picture
Lacey also shares her love of theatre, including musicals and backstage experiences. A backstage tour helped her notice the many creative roles beyond performing, from costumes and scenery to the work that happens out of sight. The conversation celebrates the wider world of theatre and screen, reminding listeners that performance is only one part of a much bigger creative team.
Key takeaways for young actors and families
- It is normal to feel nervous when meeting new people or stepping onto set for the first time.
- Not getting a part does not mean you failed - casting depends on many factors.
- Parents can help by acknowledging disappointment before trying to move on.
- Routines, preparation and line-learning tools can make busy weeks feel more manageable.
- Young actors can grow in confidence when trusted adults give them space to take responsibility.
“Definitely go all in. Find what's best for you.”
Lacey's final advice is simple and encouraging: try your best, go all in and do not be too downhearted when a role does not come your way. For young performers and the adults supporting them, this episode is a gentle reminder that every audition, self-tape and set experience can be part of the learning journey.