What does it really mean to train as an actor - and how can young performers build confidence without putting too much pressure on themselves too soon? In this thoughtful conversation on The Drama Coach podcast, Lisa Southam is joined by actor Robyn Holdaway, who speaks with warmth and clarity about training, screen work, auditions, self-tapes and the support young actors need around them. Robyn has been acting since childhood, beginning in local drama groups before training at the Brit School and Guildford School of Acting. Their experience spans theatre, television and screen, and throughout the conversation they bring a practical, grounded view of what helps actors grow - not just creatively, but emotionally and professionally too.
Episode overview
The episode begins with Robyn reflecting on their own route into acting, from being an enthusiastic child in drama classes to assisting with younger groups, training in musical theatre, and later moving into classical acting. They explain that even when actors choose a particular path, such as acting rather than musical theatre, training often includes a wide mix of skills: voice, movement, singing, physical work and different approaches to character. That variety becomes one of the central themes of the conversation. Robyn encourages young actors not to specialise too early. Rather than deciding at 12 or 13 that they only want to do screen acting, they suggest building a broad foundation first. Movement, voice, physical awareness, acting technique and the ability to understand how your body works in space all become part of an actor's toolkit. Robyn also speaks openly about drama school, access and training routes. They are clear that professional training can be intense, and that not every drama course offers the same level of practical experience. At the same time, they reassure listeners that there can be financial support, scholarships, funds and local opportunities available, even if they are not always well advertised.
Key themes and takeaways
One of Robyn's strongest messages is that actors need tools they can rely on. Instinct matters, but it is not always enough. As they put it, “training is what you fall back on when instinct fails”. For young actors, this means practising, reflecting and learning from each experience rather than simply hoping talent will carry them through. Robyn offers a simple reflection process that parents and teachers can use with young performers. After a class, audition or performance, ask what they are proud of, what they might do differently next time, and what they have learned. For younger children, this can stay light and positive. The aim is not to pick apart what went wrong, but to help them develop awareness and confidence. The conversation also explores how to create genuinely safe spaces in drama classes. Robyn makes the point that a teacher cannot simply announce that a room is safe. Trust has to be earned and maintained. That includes respecting students, dealing with behaviour that makes others feel unsafe, allowing space for self-regulation, and apologising when adults get things wrong. For parents and teachers, this is a valuable reminder that drama training is not only about performance. It is also about emotional development, communication and learning how to work with other people. Those skills matter whether a young person becomes an actor or not.
What screen work is really like
Robyn also gives a clear picture of life on a television set. While screen work can look glamorous from the outside, they describe it as busy, technical and often full of waiting. Actors may be in a trailer for long periods, then suddenly be needed on set and expected to perform immediately. That ability to go from stillness to readiness is a major screen skill. Robyn talks about finding healthy ways into a scene, often through physical triggers rather than relying too heavily on difficult personal memories. They are clear that “acting is not therapy”, especially in a professional environment where the job has to be repeatable and safe. They also stress the importance of manners and professionalism. Be on time, know your lines, and do not be unpleasant to work with. Robyn encourages actors to learn names, respect every department, and remember that a production depends on many people, from drivers and runners to makeup, camera, lighting and assistant directors.
Supporting young actors well
Towards the end of the conversation, Robyn and Lisa talk about auditions, self-tapes and the emotional highs and lows of the industry. Robyn encourages parents to build a young actor's life outside acting, so that one audition or role does not become everything. Planning something positive alongside a casting opportunity can help create a healthier sense of balance. They also remind parents that children often pick up on adult stress, even when adults try to hide it. The support around a young actor matters. Calm, emotionally steady adults can help young performers process disappointment, celebrate effort and keep acting as part of a full, happy life. This episode is a generous and practical listen for young actors, parents and teachers alike. It invites us to think carefully about training, resilience, access and kindness - and to remember that the best acting journey is not only about getting the next role, but about growing safely, thoughtfully and with the right support around you.