In the world of performing arts, starting young can feel like a necessity. From dance classes to vocal training, acting workshops to early auditions — many children begin building their skills before they even hit double digits. And yes, there is real value in that. Early training helps young performers develop discipline, confidence, and technical excellence. It lays a solid foundation for future success, and may even provide incredible professional opportunities within your childhood.

One of the most powerful tools an actor or performer can develop isn’t found in a script — it’s found in everyday life. Great characters don’t just come from imagination; they come from observation. Watching people closely — how they move, how they react, how they speak — is how you turn a character from words on a page into a living, breathing person.

It’s natural to look up to mentors, teachers, industry professionals, or talented peers—but it’s important to be cautious about idolising them. Putting others on a pedestal can blur the line between healthy admiration and idealisation. This often leads to unrealistic expectations, disappointment, or feelings of inadequacy when their flaws or limitations inevitably appear. No matter how successful someone is, they are still human—with their own struggles, insecurities, and mistakes.

In the performing arts, your body is more than just your physical presence—it's your instrument. Whether you're dancing, acting, singing, or doing all three, your body’s health, energy, and resilience are essential to your success. One of the most powerful ways to care for that instrument is through the way you fuel it: with food.

In the performing arts world, it’s incredibly easy to get caught up in the fast pace of competitions, callbacks, solos, and the constant stream of social media highlights. The excitement of winning, the rush of being seen, and the validation that comes with standing out can feel like the ultimate reward—and it often is, in the moment. However, when your focus narrows solely to collecting trophies, chasing applause, or trying to outdo your peers, you risk losing sight of something far more important: the deeper purpose and long-term vision behind your training.

In the world of performing arts, perfection can sometimes feel like the ultimate goal. We watch polished performances on stage, in film, or online, and it’s easy to believe that great performers never make mistakes. But the truth is, everyone—even the most seasoned professionals—makes mistakes. It’s part of being human and part of the learning journey.

In the world of musical theatre, dance, and singing, the journey never really ends — and that's one of the most exciting parts of this career.

Even the most successful performers in Broadway, film, or concert stages continue to train, grow, and refine their craft. Why? Because staying curious and open to learning keeps your performances fresh, your skills sharp, and your passion alive.

Here’s how you can embrace the mindset of lifelong learning:

As the temperature drops, your body needs a little extra care — especially if you're dancing, singing, or training regularly. Cooler weather can increase muscle tightness and joint stiffness, which raises the risk of strain or injury.

In the world of performance — whether in school productions, youth theatre, or early professional work — you're likely to meet a wide range of personalities. Most people are supportive, but sometimes, you'll encounter subtle forms of bullying: exclusion, gossip, backhanded compliments, or silent treatment. This kind of behaviour — often called covert bullying — can be hard to spot, and even harder to call out, but it can still take a real toll on your confidence and wellbeing.

Following on from last week’s Performance Tip “Shine Together and Not Just Alone”, a truly compelling performance is never the result of one person alone. No matter the size of your role — whether you're delivering a key monologue or simply walking across the stage in a silent moment — your presence, energy, and intention contribute to the overall story. Theatre, film, and any form of ensemble performance are collaborative art forms, and their strength depends entirely on the commitment of every performer involved.

One of the most exciting things about performing is getting the chance to shine—to sing that big solo, nail a dance break, or fully step into character. But here’s something every great performer knows: the best performances happen when the whole cast shines together.

Being a young performer can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also become overwhelming if performance takes over every part of your life. That’s why it’s so important to prioritise balance. This means making space not just for rehearsals and performances, but also for school, friendships, family time, and hobbies that have nothing to do with performing.

As the days grow colder and rehearsal rooms get chillier, performers of all kinds—dancers, vocalists, and actors—need to be extra mindful of self-care. Whether you're leaping across the stage, projecting your voice to the balcony, or embodying a character through hours of rehearsal, the change in weather can impact your performance if you’re not prepared. Here are some season-specific tips to help you stay healthy, energised, and performance-ready all winter long.

Production and competition seasons can be one of the most exciting times in a young performer's life—costumes, rehearsals, music, and the thrill of the stage! But with the excitement also comes long days, high energy demands, and lots of commitments, both at school and in the theatre. That’s why it’s so important—for both young performers and their families—to prioritise balance and wellbeing along the way.

When you're passionate about performing, it’s easy to feel protective of your work — but remember: feedback is one of the greatest gifts you can receive! Every note, comment, or suggestion is an opportunity to grow stronger, sharper, and more connected to your craft.

In the fast-paced world of the performing arts, it’s all too easy to compare your journey to that of others. With social media showcasing only the highlights of other performers' careers—auditions, wins, agent signings, and big roles—it can seem like everyone else is achieving more or moving faster. But remember, comparison often leads to self-doubt, anxiety, and unnecessary pressure to conform to someone else’s timeline.

As a performer, your mind and body are your primary tools for creating art, and taking care of both is essential to sustaining your creativity, focus, and overall well-being. One of the most effective ways to nurture both is by integrating mindfulness practices into your routine. Mindfulness is the art of being fully present in the moment—something that’s especially important in the world of performing arts, where the pressure to constantly deliver and meet expectations can often lead to stress, burnout, and mental fatigue.

As a performer, feedback is an invaluable part of your artistic journey—it’s a way to refine your craft, expand your abilities, and gain new perspectives. However, receiving feedback, whether positive or constructive, can sometimes feel challenging. The key is to approach it with an open mind and a growth-oriented mindset.

When choosing a song for your vocal audition, it’s important to consider several key factors to ensure you present your best self.

Injuries can be one of the most frustrating parts of the performing arts journey — but they can also be an opportunity to reset, rebuild, and return stronger than before. Whether it’s from overuse, acute trauma, or one unfortunate landing, how you recover makes all the difference.