Sandie's a star maker

Sandie is one of the few selected casting agents who places children into West End shows, and she has recently set up on her own, after a period working as head of casting in a performing arts college.

Lewis Griffiths and Francesca Dunning are just two of the children that Sandie has already successfully placed into shows.

Lewis, who is 14, is currently appearing as Clarence in Whistle Down the Wind and Francesca, eight, is the farmer's daughter in Oklahoma.

Another of Sandie's young clients, Kirsty Liggins, is currently touring with Annie and others have appeared in Les Miserables and also had roles in Annie and Whistle Down the Wind.

She has even introduced one youngster to a successful audition for the Lion King.

Now Sandie is looking for more children to add to her books. "I intend to hold a regional casting day next month and I want drama schools and individuals to get in touch about auditions," she said.

The date has been set for August 2 and Sandie hopes that schools and individuals will approach her before the date so that she can send out application forms and further details.

"There will be private auditions in the morning and open auditions in the afternoon," she explained.

"If children are coming as individuals, then it would be a good idea for them to tell me, if they can, which role in the West End they think they would be good at.

"They will be expected to perform one dance or sing one song for a singing role. I would send them a list of songs to choose from."

There will be a nominal charge for the audition, around £5, to offset the costs of the hall, the musical director, pianist and paperwork that will be involved.

Anyone interested in applying for the regional casting should send a stamped addressed envelope to Sandra Singer Associates, 21, Cotswold Road, Westcliff SS0 8AA.

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