I wasn’t originally taking drama, but the drama teacher asked me to audition for Bye, Bye Birdie. I did and got the lead role. Initially I was kind of scared, but once I did it I got bitten by the bug and loved it.

Richardson describes an accidental entry into performing arts: he did not plan to study drama, but a teacher’s invitation led him to audition and unexpectedly win a lead role. The quote highlights how formative opportunities often come through mentors who recognize potential before the individual does. His initial fear gives way to enthusiasm—“bitten by the bug”—capturing the common arc of discovering a vocation through practice rather than prior intention. In a broader sense, it suggests that creative confidence can be learned, and that taking a risk (even reluctantly) can reveal latent passions and redirect a life path.