How can I get a career in acting and musicals?
I would love to perform as a career but I don’t know how or where I should go to do so. #performing-arts #acting #career
4 answers
Peter Fitzpatrick
Peter’s Answer
I know your question was asked back in 2019 but I also know that others will have the same question. I'd love to hear if you are still involved in the performing arts.
My personal experience is that I had to make a difficult choice between the arts and business but I have found a balance between a day job in technology and my life in the arts where I write and perform music. One of my sons has studied theatre and drama in Dublin. His path to getting into the industry started in youth theatre. You're fortunate to live near many local theatres where these groups exist so I hope you found one and enjoyed it.
The skills and knowledge gained when studying in the performing arts can be applied in other industries. People skills, management skills, technology skills and more.
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Aimee’s Answer
Daniel’s Answer
Hi Ciara,
Becoming a professional performer is such an exciting and fulfilling career. I have many friends that went to school for musical theater and have been performing on stage ever since! I think it is important that you do your research and ask yourself some of the following questions:
- Do I want to study musical theater or acting/drama?
- If I study musical theater, will I want to pursue the vocal aspect or dancing aspect of that career?
- What schools have great musical theater/acting programs that I can afford?
If you have decided to go to school and study musical theater or acting, it is important that you build your acting resume! Participate in the school drama productions and musical productions. Audition for everything and keep building that resume. Make sure you have a professional headshot when you go to these auditions. Also, it is important that you audition for local/regional theaters around you also.
While in school studying to be a performer, many of my friends auditioned for Summer Stock shows in other states, which prepare a performer for the vigorous and challenging career. You can be cast in up to three shows and rehearse for all of them at the same time and perform them back to back. It is a good learning experience.
I hope this insight helps you! Good luck with your acting!
Daniel recommends the following next steps: