How To Advance Your Career In Performing Arts

How To Advance Your Career In Performing Arts

With aspirations to pursue a career in performing arts, amateurs strive to get discovered. Some pick up unpaid gigs and partake in random street performances, all in the hopes that a passerby is a talent scout. While others are still straining to obtain the reality of their dream, only a rare few are lucky enough to have their talents recognized by a professional. Making a profitable living from a performing arts career may seem far-fetched because of the many competitors fighting for the same spotlight. Similar to every other job, it can be a struggle to stay ahead of the many dreamers striving for the same position. The more competitive the job market is for a particular career, the harder the interview will be. Besides catching a recruiter’s eye at a play or show, there are other beneficial ways to take your performing arts career to new heights and make a name for yourself in the industry. Depending on your field of interest, here’s a list of career-enhancing degrees and other beneficial ways to advance your career in performing arts:


Acting/Theater

To gain a wide variety of experience in the acting field of performing arts, many schools highly recommend taking some sort of theater courses. While acting courses cover a wide range of acting techniques necessary to become a successful actor or actress, theater will give you a musical edge over those competing for the same role! Besides obtaining an education, applying for an unpaid or minimal paying role with a local, ‘small-time’ director could help you advance your career. Also, signing up for acting workshops can help your further your skills.

Singing/Music

As for finding ways to advance as a musician, signing up for local music lessons, joining a music conservatory, and consistent practice can help you hit that high C! While some colleges already offer some vocal training in their music program, hiring a vocal coach is highly recommended to give you more of a competitive edge, enhance your skills and possibly increase your range.

Dancing

If your desire is to be a dancer or choreographer, become a master of your moves with a degree in dancing! Typically, professional dancers or choreographers attain a Bachelor’s degree with a major in dance. To get the most of out of your education and to become a more versatile dancer, take advantage of the various dance courses offered at the college you’re applying to. Also, browse different dance companies to see what classes they offer. Common types of dance courses offered are: ballet, jazz, ballroom, tap, hip-hop, modern, swing, Salsa, and other Latin dances.

Photography

One efficient way to build a career as a photographer is by creating a portfolio. This portfolio is equivalent to a resume in the workplace and should contain a solid collection of your best work. Some companies are looking for a certain style or something in particular, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t land every job. If you’re looking to further your photography career with an education, some technical colleges offer the opportunity for students to obtain a photography certificate, while working towards an Associate degree in graphic arts. Because the two coincide, an educational background in both photography and graphic arts will help you better establish yourself as a professional photographer. Because of the high turnover rate, a career in performing arts is often unfairly characterized as a dead-end path. The reality is, as with any career, taking measured steps forward and devoting yourself to practice and education will put you in an optimal position to advance to the next level.

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