ABSTRACT
So how do you learn the necessary skills that will make you more employable in this market? There are numerous training courses for presenters that are advertised from time to time in publications such as The Stage and PCR, which will teach techniques such as working to camera, using microphones and reading off ‘autocue’ (a system whereby a script is scrolled on a TV screen which the presenter then reads). Actors, stand-up comedians, DJs and journalists already have excellent transferable skills which can be drawn upon when it comes to presenting. One of the best ways to learn though, is actually on the job – in another interesting opportunity for employment – while working as a ‘coat’ or entertainer at a holiday park or onboard a cruise ship (the latter is not only a good training ground, but also a great way to see the world, and be paid to do so). While there are many different holiday parks in the UK, the two major groups audition in the following ways. Butlins (www.butlins.com/redcoatrecruitment) normally audition new redcoats in London, Birmingham and Leeds each January, where candidates are put thoroughly through their paces in all aspects of performing in a six-hour audition. Pontins (www.careers-pontins.com/bluecoat_auditions.php) hold their auditions four times a year in Manchester, Birmingham, London and Blackpool, and there are three types of performers that they look for (though applicants can try out for more than one genre, if they wish). The general category involves artists talking about themselves on stage and performing a short sketch; dancers are asked to follow and
present a routine, while singers are asked to sing a song of their choosing to a backing track. Cruise line auditions usually involve singing and dancing (with perhaps acting in some cases) and often take place in the early months of each year. You could also explore work opportunities at theme parks, many of which use presenters for their seasonal shows, such as Alton Towers (www.altontowers jobs.com), Legoland (www.legoland.co.uk/jobs), Blackpool Pleasure Beach (www.blackpoolpleasurebeach.com/jobs.php) or Disneyland Paris (www.disneylandparis-casting.com). Most audition calls are widely advertised, especially in The Stage, so keep a look out.
