Gemma Oaten loves the thrill of an audition.
Gemma Oaten
The former 'Emmerdale' actress - who has also appeared in soaps like 'Doctors' - admitted while she gets nervous stepping up to earn a new role, she enjoys the opportunity to try something fresh.
Speaking to The Stage, she said: "I love auditions. The prep, the research and the chance to feed my brain with new scripts and plays is always a joy.
"I always go in without expectations. I aim to enjoy the experience and deliver my best. Preparation is key. I always say: 'Just be you.' Chat, be open, be warm and listen."
The 34-year-old star has also turned her attention to the stage - including performances in 'Somebody Call Me a Cabaret!' - and she has offered her advice to hopeful performers wondering how to perfect the art of an audition.
She added: "I know it sounds obvious, but do the work before you get in the room. Make sure you are free and easy with the lines and open to direction. Be willing to play.
"Take every audition as an opportunity to learn and progress and not a desperate quest to get the job. Take that pressure off. But invest in the audition to the point where, whatever the outcome, you can hold your head high and know you gave it your best and take away a new experience."
It was revealed last month that Gemma will be returning to 'Holby City' in autumn to reprise her role as nurse Sydney Somers for a third stint on the BBC One serial drama.
She said: "I love playing Sydney Somers and it's always a joy to return."
Gemma has hinted fans can expect plenty more drama between her character and Alex Walkinshaw's director of nursing alter-ego Adrian 'Fletch' Fletcher later this year.
She is quoted by the Daily Star newspaper as saying: "As the viewers have seen before, she often causes quite a stir - especially with Fletch.
"Who knows what they'll be like with each other this time round, especially when he sees her in a bridesmaid dress!"
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