[ad_1]
I’ve poured my soul into acting for about half of my life, so since I was pretty much in seventh grade almost everyone, including myself, expected me to major. in musical theater. It’s what I eat, sleep and breathe. Instead, I’m pursuing a degree in architecture, but I don’t want to miss theater while I’m in college, so I’ve compiled a few ideas on how you (and I) can stay involved in the theatrical scene whatever your specialty.
1. Find local theaters
Most of the college towns are a decent size, which provides plenty of opportunities for the theater to thrive. Here in Orlando, I have found over thirty theaters and theater groups within 45 minutes of my campus. Look for them! Follow their social media, go see a show, bookmark their audition pages, and volunteer if you want. If you’re new to town, be patient when auditioning. Directors are more likely to choose people they know, so don’t give up on a theater after once or twice. Keep trying and stay positive! You will find your space.
2. Hearing on campus
If there is a theater department in your school, check to see if auditions for productions are open to all students. Chances are they are! If you don’t have a car, it’s a great way to stay involved, make friends, and enjoy your time on campus. Likewise, most colleges have theater clubs open to all students. To rejoin! Not only is it good for your creative mind, but participating in a student organization is also good for a CV. You might even want to go the extra mile and run for a desk for a club.
3. Join community groups on Facebook
You might think Facebook is just for your older parents for chatting and SHOUTING THEIR POLITICAL OPINIONS IN CAPITAL LETTERS, but it’s actually a great networking tool for people in the theater. Chances are there is a Facebook group specifically for theater in your area. Some examples include Orlando Theater Network and Middle Tennessee Theater. Look up keywords on Facebook like “theater” and the name of your area. You’ll probably be surprised at how many options appear and how often people will post auditions and other jobs.
4. Get vaccinated against COVID-19
It is not a political opinion; it’s just a tip. Many theaters only show people who have been vaccinated, and several also check the immunization status of members of the public. There is a good chance that very soon there will be few cinemas in major cities that will not have some sort of vaccination restriction.
5. Get connected
There are a lot of performance opportunities that are not necessarily plays and musicals. Check out improv groups, audition for student films, join a dance team, and maybe even form a band. Obviously, people who really love theater love it for more than the performance aspect, but there is a lot of space to learn and grow creatively in college. Find more things to love!
6. Create your own theater group or club
If you can’t find something that interests you on or around campus, or if you’re just looking for more, start your own group! Grab some friends and play Shakespeare in the middle of the campus, form an acapella group to sing in the middle of the student union, write your own shows to play, the possibilities are endless! Plays written before the invention of copyright (1790) are free to play, and it all depends on your interpretation. Dress up in your closets and thrift stores, and just have fun.
7. Apply to work in a theater or other performance space
Let’s be honest: college is expensive. If you want to find a job, find a job you can love! Check out job openings at local theaters or even your campus theater. Become a bailiff, box office worker, technician, set builder, or more. Community theaters rely mostly on volunteers, but professional theaters in your area may be open to hiring students with some experience. I love working in a downtown Orlando theater as a stage artist and technician. Don’t limit yourself to your own doubts. Educate yourself and have confidence in yourself!
College is a place for you to explore and have fun. Even though you might be busy with your lessons and homework, take the time to stay involved in the things you love, to let off steam, to express yourself, and to make new friends.
Stay safe, healthy, happy and hydrated,
Jana Denning
[ad_2]
