My dad took me for an audition once, to show me, 'OK, you want to be a child actor, this is what it's like.' I sang a folk song about donkeys on this West End stage with this big director, and there was a queue of 200 girls all singing 'Memory.' I was terrible. Terrible.

In this quote, Emilia Clarke reflects on an early experience in her journey to becoming an actress. Her dad took her to an audition, likely as a way to give her a realistic glimpse into the competitive and often challenging world of acting. Clarke humorously recounts her performance, where she sang a folk song about donkeys on a West End stage in front of a prominent director, making it clear that the experience didn’t go well. The mention of the large group of girls singing "Memory" from the musical Cats emphasizes the stark contrast between her own performance and that of the others.

Clarke’s self-deprecating tone—describing herself as "terrible"—shows her vulnerability and humility in recounting the experience. Her words also hint at the overwhelming nature of the audition process, where talent and preparation are crucial, and where a beginner, like her at the time, could feel out of place amidst a sea of more polished performers. The mention of 200 girls in line, all auditioning for the same part, emphasizes the intense competition in the entertainment industry, especially in prestigious settings like West End productions.

The origin of the quote lies in Emilia Clarke's personal story, one she has shared in interviews and reflections on her career. Clarke went on to become a well-known actress, famously portraying Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones. Her early audition experience is an example of the ups and downs that many aspiring actors face before finding success.

Ultimately, the quote reflects not only the difficulties and embarrassment of an early failed audition but also the realism that comes with pursuing a career in acting. It shows Clarke’s growth from that awkward, early moment to becoming one of the most recognizable stars in television. The experience likely shaped her understanding of perseverance, learning from failure, and the determination needed to succeed in a highly competitive field.