UKP-Arts went to a school in Cambridge where Frances Brownlie, Director of the Camcit Players, was holding third-round auditions for a production of Annie to be held at the Cambridge Corn Exchange, to ask her about the dos and don'ts of auditioning.

Frances certainly knows what (or whom) she is looking for. Starting her career at the age of 17, she went on to study at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama. As well as having been an actress, she has directed over 260 productions. She now runs Wyse Casting Agency, Dramawise - a youth drama and dance group - and the Sawston Players, a theatre group for adults. When we met her, Frances was busy with a group of 21 girls, all keen to show her what they could do. In between giving out instructions and watching intently, Frances answered some of our questions.

"The best place to look is the local newspaper - we always advertise our auditions there. Keeping an eye on local theatre or concert venues is also a good idea as notices will often be pinned up in the foyer. Finally, listen to local radio stations, as announcements will often be made on them."

"We're now on the third and final audition. We started with the original open audition where we had over 160 girls to see. From this, we chose 60 for the next phase - the first of two recall auditions. We then whittled down numbers to the final 30. This final audition will decide who'll get speaking or lead parts. All girls here today will be invited to take part in the show and, though some will not have speaking parts, it's still a great opportunity to be involved in a production."

"All children from birth to compulsory school leaving age need a licence if:

there is any payment;

the production lasts more than 4 days;

time off school is required;

the performance is to be recorded.

A licence isn't needed if children are performing in amateur or school productions providing there is no payment; the production is for less than 4 days and does not include time off school; or the performance involves children in a church/cathedral choir performing at a religious service. Depending on the age of the child and the nature of the performance there are also regulations limiting:

the number of days worked per week;

the number of hours worked per day;

the number of breaks needed;

any work required at night."

"The licence is applied for by 'the person responsible for the production of the performance or the activity (e.g. modelling) in which the child is to take part'. This means that I have to apply for licences for all of the children in this production - quite an administrative task!"

"The panel is not just looking for an ability to sing, dance and act. These are obviously all important but we also look for other skills and personal qualities. We look for the ability to work as part of a team - to be part of a group and not be a prima donna! Although saying that, it is important that each candidate 'makes their mark'; the panel needs to see what you are capable of. We also look for enthusiasm, energy, dedication, a good personality, good memory skills, and the ability to listen to instructions and take onboard any feedback from the panel."

"If you have long hair, then make sure it's tied back and wear well-fitting, comfortable clothes. It is very hard to do a good dance routine if you are constantly pushing your hair back or having to pull your trousers up! Also make sure you wear suitable shoes. Listen well to any instructions you are given - pay attention at all times rather than chatting to your friends.

The panel will also notice if you show certain levels of responsibility as this will be useful during the production. Be practical as well - make a note of rehearsal dates and times and make sure you tell your parents. They may have booked a family holiday and you need to make sure you're available for all rehearsals as well as the actual performances.

Finally, make sure you turn up or let someone know if you have a problem making it to the audition. If you're not there, then you won't get a part!"