There is no doubt that musical theater is a big business. They sell millions of tickets each year on Broadway and make very high profits. Becoming a star on Broadway is a dream of many, but very difficult to do. However, it is not impossible if you are talented and persistent. Listed below are some tips on how to get started in this highly competitive business.
- First of all, remember that there are many different job opportunities within the musical theater world. You could work in the box office, as a director or musical director, stage manager, producer, make-up artist, choreographer, dancer, actor/singer, scenic carpenter, costume attendant, lightening designer, or composer/lyricist. Not everyone in a production is in the spotlight. Maybe you are a behind the scenes kind of person?
- Taking lessons and classes would be a great experience for you. Natural talent is important for the stage, but formal training will never do you wrong. It will teach you how to project your voice and increase your stamina, both of which are important to performing on stage. Those who want to perform for a living need to be great at three things: singing, dancing, and acting. Pay attention to these skills equally and train yourself accordingly to keep up with any competition you may face.
- Find yourself a mentor, someone who knows the business and can be honest with you. You will need someone to work on vocals, acting, and dancing as well as help you to dress, communicate, and interact properly during auditions. However, do not expect your mentor to set goals for you. That is YOUR job!
- Get involved with summer musical theater programs. This is a great way for you to see your competition and to learn more about what it is like immerse yourself in the theater lifestyle. It will show you if you will be able to thrive in this world or not. You will find out if you love it enough to drop into bed at night after 18 hours of work and then get up and do it again the next day.
- Video yourself practicing and performing to watch later. This will help you see any problems or flaws in your performance. Have your friends watch too and critique you!
- Be prepared when you head off to an audition. Have a two-minute monologue and a variety of songs prepared. Avoid imitations and complex songs. The purpose of your singing audition is to demonstrate your voice and range, not to show off or sound like someone else. Also make sure you dress appropriately for the audition. Wear comfortable clothes that also look nice.
- Be persistent and tough! You will hear the word “no” more then you ever thought possible in this industry. There will always be someone better than you and if you get your feelings hurt easily, you will never make it in this world. Just believe in yourself and exude self-confidence. Others will pick up on that!
- Get some headshots taken. Keep your outfit simple in the pictures and do not look overdone. Have the shots taken in a natural and flattering light. The casting directors need to see what you look like everyday.
- Get tons of experience wherever you can! Audition for shows at community theaters. Give yourself some time to build up a good resume. If you are able to afford workshops, go to them! The more experience you get, the more connections you will make, and that gives you a better chance at landing great auditions!
If you are interested in musical theater, check out our website today! We will be starting a class for ages 10 and up in the fall on Thursdays at 7:30pm. Register now at https://omahaschoolofmusicanddance.com/musical-theater-omaha-ne/ .
