What a day!

Charlie has had an interest in acting and the theatre since we first saw a Red Rose Chain production of Theatre in the Forest back in 2009 and although he hasn't been to drama classes or done anything other than school plays it came as no surprise when he wanted to take part in the open auditions for John & Michael Darling for the Peter Pan pantomime at Norwich Theatre Royal.

I had my reservations as he had no professional training nor experience of the theatre, other than treading the boards at the theatre's open day a couple of weeks ago and he can be quite flighty at times.

I didn't relish sitting with a bunch of precocious primadonnas and their pushy parents but he was adamant he wanted to do it and various people had said the audition process would be a great experience for him, especially if acting was a direction he wanted to take in life, whether it's now or when he's older.

Despite my reservations and negativity I was supportive of his choice so off we went this morning. I was more nervous than he was!

I was so pleased to see a friend and her son walk in as it took our minds off waiting as neither Charlie nor I are the most patient of people but Charlie was rather laid-back and relaxed about it.

I was thrown when the children were taken off to the auditorium and the parents had to sit in the bar waiting…and waiting….and waiting. It was hell!

Charlie's group returned and I was awaiting the "thank you very much but sadly you haven't got through" but Charlie's name was called out as he'd got through to the next stage! Soon after that he returned to the auditorium, again without me, and he was gone for what felt like hours. Gradually boys were returning to their parents with sad faces and I steeled myself for one very disappointed boy but then we were spoken to about the boys being either principal cast, understudies or stand ins. It hadn't sunk in that they were talking about my boy. He had won a part! Jo looked at me and I promptly burst into tears. I was convinced he'd be an understudy, even when he walked up the corridor punching the air but I didn't get to speak to him and ask what he'd got as they were all whisked off again (to be measured up for their flying harnesses!) and only then were we told who was doing what.

I was gobsmacked when his name was announced as one of the 3 Michael's. My boy had actually done it! I thought my heart would burst with pride (and yes, I nearly cried again.) I couldn't wait to phone everyone and tell them.

It's going to be a massive commitment, very hard work for him and will completely screw with Christmas plans but what a fabulous experience he's going to have! I'm really excited about him working with Sid Sloane and Kevin Kennedy but he was just so blasé when I told him. He's certainly not going to be starstruck!