The Top 5 Tips to Excel at Musical Theater
Acting is one of the most underrated yet accessible creative extracurriculars. You can choose your level of devotion. If you have a full-time job, you can join your local community theater for fun, but if you want to go pro, you can eventually find an agent to get you into proper auditions.
However, natural talent will only get you so far, especially in musical theater. If you want to truly excel, continue reading to discover the best ideas to make your mark.
Train, Train, Train
The best way to impress crew as a newcomer? Auditioning with a strong skillset. To improve your performance, enroll in training and development courses. Find an acting class near you. Search for a vocal coach with proven knowledge about musical theater. With enough hard work, you will be ready to blow away your audience and hopefully get cast.
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Have the Same Dedication to Every Part
We know most people want to be on Broadway, but for the majority of actors, the process first begins with experience at their community theater. On a local scale, you still may not begin with a leading role. Instead, the director and producer could offer you a small supporting character or a non-speaking (but singing and dancing) role in the ensemble. Regardless of whether you're the star or Rock No. 5, play your position with the same passion. It's the hard work and visible dedication that will continue to get you booked.
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Continue to Network
During your first auditions, you might not find your name on the cast list. It's not because you aren't talented, but often, the crew prefer to go with actors they know well—especially for the leads. Continue to show up at your theater to prove you are a reliable person. If you aren't acting in the play, volunteer to help with props or costumes. The team will get to know you and your shining personality, which will better equip you during the next season.
Continuously Learn New Music
You may have a song you love to sing, but it might not be the right audition piece for every musical. For example, you don't want to sing an upbeat Disney or Hamilton tune for something melodramatic, like Sweeney Todd or Les Mis. Have multiple tracks in your toolbox to showcase you can sing in the current musical's genre.
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Find a Talent Agent
So, you've got a few credits under your belt. Now, you feel prepared to move onto something bigger. Regional, national or even Broadway. Without an agent, it is nearly impossible to be seen by more influential productions. Mainly, it's because the agent is seen as a trusted individual to vouch for your skillset.
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