"Yeah, I'd heard all about it. Never actually seen it, mind you...

But I was badgered into applying all the same, and to my surprise, the BBC moved really fast. Within a couple of weeks I was called to audition, and two weeks later was booked for filming at Pinewood. Figured I better watch a few shows at that point. Is this for real?? Talk about Colloseum television! Still, if they're kind enough to invite...

So there I was. 7.30am, in a Green-Room with half-a-dozen other "interesting characters", as one producer put it. One-by-one we're called out, and no one returns. I'm up around midday, and surprisingly relaxed about it. (Although I'll admit that making the pitch was a little nerve-wracking, because you only get the one take.)

On stage time flies, and what felt like 30 minutes was actually nearer two hours. Theo and Deborah started the onslaught, exploring every weak point they could find. I held my tongue and took the hits as best I could. Fortunately James wasn't put off, and with a nod from Duncan, made me an offer in return for 50% of the business. None of the other Dragons could offer a better deal, and actually encouraged me to go with with "team-DJ".

Well, having done my homework and watched a few of the shows, I knew the golden rule: If they make you an offer, take it. How many people have walked back down those stairs empty-handed? And for what? Giving up a few percent extra?? I'm not that sentimental.

So I took Duncan and James up on their offer, and everyone else congratulated me - turned out they liked the idea after all!"

 

(Andy Harsley, 18th April 2008)