Considering a Profession in Performing Arts?
Considering a career exploring a life of creativity? Can you not go a few days without thinking about being involved in the Performing Arts? You've either found a fabulous stress relief from day-to-day life or started a larger journey into a life in the Performing Arts!
Dance
Most professional dancers begin training in their pre-teens, but starting later is possible with the right training. If you're serious about pursuing a career in dance, enroll in courses from local professional companies to gain critical knowledge of nutrition and wellness in addition to movement.
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What should you do? Engage in performances, try various movement styles, and collaborate with peers on choreography. College-hosted "Experience" and "Audition" days provide great insights into their programs and offer chances to connect with instructors and peers.
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If you're beyond high school age, seek internships or college dance programs to prepare for professional opportunities. Keep in mind most colleges and universities, while offering personal and conceptual growth for post-dance careers, do require an audition for admission.
Music
For high schoolers investigating a music career, participating in band or choir is hardly enough for college readiness. Expand your knowledge through private lessons, participate in solo and ensemble competitions, join various community ensembles, explore a variety of instruments, and engage in college-hosted Honor Bands and Audition days.
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Most colleges expect any graduating music students to have skills in music theory, sight-singing, and be piano proficient (so basic keyboard skills is critical). There are quite a few online resources to help develop these skills. Keep in mind most colleges and universities, while offering personal and conceptual growth for musical careers, do require an audition for admission.
Theatre
College theatre programs typically are highly competitive auditions with regular review processes. To start your theatrical journey, engage in as many plays and performances as possible including school productions and community groups. Explore dance and visual arts to broaden your skill-set to have healthy and diverse theatrical experiences.
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Participating in (and even just auditioning for) local productions offer great experiences and networking connections for future roles and opportunities. Look for local theatre groups offering workshops and internships to further immerse yourself in the field.