The next few trainees stepped onto the stage, and everyone could feel the tension crackling in the air.
One by one, they strutted forward, some overly dressed in lavish outfits that screamed desperation, while others were woefully underdressed, lacking the charisma their performances needed.
A girl in a glittering gold gown twirled onto the stage, her elaborate dress sparkling under the lights. But the crowd didn't cheer.
Instead, there was a collective cringe when her movements became stilted, clearly hampered by the heavy layers of fabric. Her shoes — heels far too high — made her stumble during her dance routine, killing any energy she had built up.
Her voice was shaky, struggling to keep up with the elegance she tried so hard to portray.
Then came another — a guy in a simple, oversized hoodie and jeans. He seemed relaxed, but the lack of stage presence was impossible to ignore.