Audrey started taking ballet lessons in England before the outbreak of WWII. These lessons instilled a lifelong passion for dance.

After the war, Audrey continued her ballet training in Amsterdam with Sonia Gaskell and later with Olga Tarasova, aiming to become a prima ballerina. Financial constraints and her height (deemed too tall for a traditional ballerina) made this career path challenging.

Audrey moved to London with her mother to pursue opportunities in the performing arts. She worked as a model and chorus girl to support them both.

Audrey performed in the chorus of West End musicals such as 'High Button Shoes' and 'Sauce Tartare.' She also took on small, uncredited roles in British films to gain experience and earn a living.

Audrey landed a small role in the film 'Monte Carlo Baby,' marking a turning point. While filming, she was spotted by French novelist Colette, who chose her to play the title role in the Broadway adaptation of her novel 'Gigi'.