Our interview with Layton Williams

We were delighted when Layton Williams, star of TVs Bad Education and the West End hit Billy Elliot, came to compere our Ealing studio show last year. He also performed an amazing lyrical solo, which was an inspiration for our students to see. Due to very popular demand, he is back to compere again this year (I think some of the girls wouldn't have spoken to us if it was anyone else!), but before the madness of the show starts, he met us for a quick chat to give us an insight into his professional life and some advice for our dancers of the future:

* When did you first realise you wanted to be a dancer?

I first realised I wanted to dance when I was about 11 after auditioning for Billy Elliot the musical. Before that it was just a little hobby for a couple of months.

* What was the audition process like for Billy Elliott?

The audition process was VERY long. It took me 2 years to actually get on stage as they had to teach me to do ballet, tap and basically the whole show. We had many recalls and auditions but regular dance classes, workshops and training happened during that time too.

* We teach a lot of children who would love to go on and become dancers, what advice could you give them about the industry?

I'd say its a very tough world out there as a dancer but if you want it that bad, go for it! Stand out from the crowd and chase your dreams!

* Hows the filming of the second series of Bad Education going?

The filming went amazing. My character 'Stephen' has so much more to do this series and I'm super excited for it to air so everyone can see the hard work that went into making it. I think it's funnier than the first series

* Whats it like working with Jack Whitehall?

Jack is a great guy. He is a pleasure to work with as a writer and co-star. As he writes the episodes too its really nice of him to give my character dance bits to do. He's funny and down to earth in person.

* Finally what's next for Layton Williams?

Next for me is finishing my course at Italic Conti and then getting out there to continue on perusing my career. Lets hope for the best !

Layton, thanks so much for taking some time out to answer our questions, and we can't wait to see you in a couple of weeks at Everybody Dance 2013!!!

Catch Layton in the new series of Bad Education on BBC3 later this year! In the meantime, follow Layton on Twitter @LaytonWilliams

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