When you’re looking to achieve your wildest dreams, you’ll have to put forth a different type of effort. This is especially true when you’re looking at careers in competitive fields such as professional sports and acting. So when you’re crafting a strategy to make it on Broadway, it’s important to consider a few factors before you get started. In order to realize your Broadway dream, include the following action items in your plan.
1. Invest in Your Education
When the discussion arises regarding action items in the quest to Broadway, it’s pretty hard to facilitate a serious one without bringing up classical training. Investing in your education is one of the only ways you can truly grow as an acting professional.
Between dance classes, singing lessons, and acting seminars, you’ll need a well-rounded education that’s specifically curated to help you thrive as a Broadway professional. This is one of the main reasons why it’s best to attend a Broadway school. Not only will you be able to come across future peers in the business, but you’ll also develop and perfect the skills you’ll need in order to sustain a long and strong career on Broadway. Do your research to learn more about various programs and all they have to offer.
It’s also great to take a tour of the facilities. Remember to consider the alumni who have gone on to experience success on Broadway. That’s a testament to the effectiveness of the program you enter.
2. Develop Your Craft
In his famous book, Outliers, author Malcolm Gladwell discusses the 10,000-hour rule. He believes that it takes at least 10,000 hours for a person to become an expert in a specific field. This takes a significant amount of time and energy when you think about all of the other responsibilities you have in life.
This means that you’ll need to dedicate a few hours each day in order to develop your craft. You might opt to wake up early in the morning to practice lines, work on your singing technique, or practice pirouettes. Make sure you’re not waiting until you land an audition before you begin practicing. By that point, it’s too late.
Do your research on Broadway as it’s a very rigorous schedule once you make it through those doors. When you prepare in advance, you’ll be ready for any opportunity that comes your way.
3. Build a Personal Social Media Presence
Treat your social media presence as an online resume. When you have a large following of people who are captivated by what you do, this increases your visibility. Don’t get carried away with attention-seeking thrills on apps like Instagram and Facebook. Instead, position yourself as an up-and-coming talent in the industry.
Whether you post weekly videos of yourself singing and dancing or create interesting skits that people love to repost, get creative with the way you showcase yourself on social media. The more value you provide on a consistent basis, the bigger and brighter your star will shine.
As industries continue to shift and change, don’t be surprised if a major break happens because someone saw you on social media. Visibility can do wonders.
4. Network Consistently
Utilize the power of networking in order to discover people who are experts in the industry. If there are online networking events or in-person seminars and classes, do your best to attend with the goal of meeting at least one new person you can keep in touch with.
As you build relationships and remain in touch with people, you’ll be able to create alliances that can be mutually beneficial in the future.
As you work to achieve your Broadway dreams, give it everything you have. When you’re resilient and focused, you’ll get a lot further. Surround yourself with positive people who can be both encouraging and honest. Learn to develop a thick skin because you will need it in order to perfect your craft and make it in the industry.
However, if you know that Broadway is your soul’s desire, don’t let fear get in the way of reaching your dreams. Remain focused on the understanding that the sky is truly the limit. No one can stop you from your dreams when you’re determined and willing.
