How do I make a career out of theatre?

As theatre nerds, we get this question too many time to count. From our parents, teachers, and friends, people always ask us how we are going to make a career out of theatre. And to be honest, sometimes we can’t really answer that. Theatre is such a risky work field that the chances of success are pretty darn slim. Not meaning to sound rude or mean, but it’s true. And people on Broadway will tell you the exact same thing. I’m going to hopefully answer some of these questions that you may have or even help you answer the questions your parents ask when you tell them you want to move to New York. But first, let’s go through some steps of what you can do to better your chances of making it big on the Great White Way.

1.       EDUCATION IS KEY

I am not saying you aren’t talented. I am not saying that you need improvement. Again, my advice comes from my teachers and professionals who I’ve heard say this a gajillion times before. We all need classes. Whether that be a theatre class in high school, or a voice teacher as you star in a show on Broadway, we can always, always, ALWAYS improve. My genuine advice? Go to college. Get a degree in theatre. Because I promise you this, it gives you the edge over those who just went straight to NYC after high school. Who would you rather hire? That’s the question you want to answer. There are so many great schools out there that can give you a phenomenal education and it will definitely strengthen your resume. Look at all the schools. Some state school are better than straight theatre conservatories, and some New York based schools are better than schools that are out of state. I am a sophomore at a state school studying theatre, and I can honestly say, we are better at getting the students professional jobs than some New York schools. Also, we mix up our productions and who we cast. No one is played a favorite and almost every student gets at least one lead role. That sort of thing is hard to find in colleges. So research the schools. Talk to current students and find out what they did to get to where they are now.

2.       CONNECTIONS ARE IMPORTANT

Whether it’s friending the cast members that you just saw in a show on Facebook or just through the director of a show you were in, connections are sooooooooo important in the theatre world. I did a show recently and I was only cast because I friended the director on Facebook after seeing him in a show. He posted that he needed male dancers, and I quickly responded. After we did the show, he invited me to come work the next summer for a PAID position. Take advantage of the opportunities that theatre gives you! I’m not saying you have to brown nose your way to the top, but be polite and respectful and most of all, yourself. So go ahead and start making your mark! Make those connections so you can start building that resume!

3.       DON’T UNDERVALUE OPPORTUNITIES

Please look at all opportunities equally when looking for acting jobs. Whether it just be a high school production or you’re starting to get Equity points, the connections and the experience should be worth it. Don’t worry about how little the part is that you might get. I have loved doing ensemble work in the past just as much as getting lead roles. Take every single role you get with gusto and be happy with the chance that you get to perform! When you’re in New York, you take anything you get, whether it be just a reading or a big part in a workshop. Get used to taking what you get, y’all.

That’s about it, folks! Feel free to ask any questions about finding a college or talking about the college where I go, cause mine’s pretty freakin’ sweet. Have fun looking at careers in theatre!

Andrew