FLORENCE, SOUTH CAROLINA (WBTW): There are many people who have a fear of something. Whether it’s snakes and spider or may heights it seems there is a phobia for everyone. One that impacts quite a few of us is the fear of singing or speaking in front of an audience. It’s something people avoid at all costs or find a way to make into a strength.
“I used to get really nervous,” 17 year old Jay Hilbourn said. “Acting helps a lot of people get out of their shell.
His journey to the spotlight started in a unique way.
“I first auditioned for my first show to impress a girl,” Hilbourn said.
Although the audition helped with the young lady it also opened up a new path.
“I realized I really loved theatre and acting,” Hilbourn said.
When showtime arrives he says the hardest part is still the nerves but he has found a way to calm those by standing backstage and jumping around.
“I really enjoy playing Sebastian,” Hilbourn said. “At first I had to work on an accent. I had two great acting coaches that helped me with it.”
