Stage Acting Advice
Most American actors must choose which media they will specialize in. On the East Coast, actors strut their stuff primarily on stage while supplementing their theatre dreams with the occasional stint in film and TV. West Coasters are more likely to go after the dream job of a recurring role on a hit series or a flashy role in the latest movie blockbuster. Stage work is seen as a showcase for TV and film casting directors to view your talents rather than an end in itself.
If the stage acting is your passion and you want to make your living at it, you'll have an easier time of it if you're a triple threat — that is, if you can sing, dance, and act with equal competence and excel in at least one of these areas.
Decades ago, plays and musicals held shared sway on the Great White Way and on the road, but nowadays, tuners dominate. So the well-trained actor who can at least carry a tune and "move well" stands a chance to be cast in musicals, thereby doubling his chances for employment.
There are actors who get along nicely outside of New York or L.A. by finding a home in one of the nation's many regional theatres. For example, Chicago, Washington, DC, and Seattle all have thriving theatrical scenes. If you elect to pursue an entertainment career in one of these cities, there won't be as many opportunities for high-income work in front of a camera, but there will be less competition and a greater sense of community
LINKS
Getting Cast in Today's Musicals on and Off-Broadway
We take a look at today's musical productions with an eye toward filling you in on what you need to know to get cast in them.
As He Likes It: Still Acting After a Half-Century
Face to face with Brian Bedford.
Protecting Your Child
Understanding the laws and requirements related to child performers
Off- and Off-Off Broadway Theatre Companies
A list of Off- and Off-Off-Broadway theatre companies in New York City
Key L.A. Musical Theatre Companies
A list of the key professional companies in L.A. and vicinity regularly producing musical theatre.
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