Navigating Musical Theater Without a Degree: A Practical Guide to Training and Auditioning
Discover a practical guide to pursuing a musical theater career without a traditional degree. Explore non-conventional training ideas, budget-friendly tips, and the importance of auditioning as a valuable form of learning. Embrace your unique journey in the performing arts with personalized training approaches.
Ashlee Espinosa in Sister Act the musical as Sister Mary Martin of Tours
Embracing Your Unique Path
So you didn't go to college for musical theater; you don't have a BFA, BA, BM, or a "Boat Boat Boat." That's perfectly okay. It's essential to stop comparing yourself to others who may have taken a different route. Whether it was due to financial constraints, personal choices, or other circumstances, not having a degree doesn't make you any less capable or worthy of a career in musical theater. Let's delve into the practicalities of training and preparing for a professional journey in this industry without a traditional educational background.
Defining Your Path: What Type of Work Do You Want?
The first step is to define the type of work you aspire to do in the musical theater industry. If you're not into big dance musicals, that's fine. Make a list of the musicals that resonate with you and analyze their common elements. Whether it's powerful belting, pop, or rock styles, understanding the characteristics will guide your training focus.
Unconventional Training Ideas: Auditioning as a Class
Rather than adhering to conventional training methods, consider auditions as a form of training. Auditioning is a class in itself. Embrace the free training opportunities by working on self-tapes regularly, even if not explicitly requested. This process hones your auditioning skills and is a valuable part of your training routine.
Budget-Friendly Training: Balancing Finances and Learning
Not everyone has unlimited funds for training. Assess your budget and find a balance between paid and free training options. Take voice lessons or classes when possible, but also incorporate daily routines like singing for 10 minutes, working out a few times a week, and dedicating time to acting exercises. This approach helps you stay connected to your craft without breaking the bank.
How Much Should You Train: Individualized Approach
There's no one-size-fits-all answer to how much you should train. Consider what you can afford and tailor your routine accordingly. If you're looking for a general guideline, aim for 5 days a week, dedicating 10 minutes a day to singing, incorporating regular workouts, and focusing on acting through auditioning and self-tape submissions.
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Emphasizing the Act of Doing: On-the-Job Training
Dispelling the misconception that extensive technical training is a prerequisite, many successful performers have learned by doing. Engage in community theater, regional theater, and ensemble work. Treat each audition and performance as a form of on-the-job training. The more you immerse yourself in the actual act of performing, the more you learn and grow.
Don't Wait to Audition: Overcoming Perfectionism
One of the biggest hurdles is waiting until you feel "ready" to audition. Don't fall into the trap of overtraining and delaying your entry into the industry. Auditioning is a crucial part of the process, and the more you engage with it, the more you learn and improve. Don't compare yourself to others; focus on your unique journey.
Your Journey, Your Training, Your Success
In the world of musical theater, success isn't solely determined by a degree. Your journey is unique, and your training should be tailored to your goals and circumstances. Embrace auditions as a form of training, balance your budget, and prioritize the type of work you aspire to do. Remember, the act of doing is a powerful teacher. So, go out there, audition, and navigate your path in the industry with confidence. Your journey is your own, and your success is waiting to be written.
Ashlee Espinosa is an accomplished theatre professional with a Master of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. With her expertise as an experienced actress, passionate educator, and dedicated career advisor, she helps artists build fulfilling lives and careers based on their definition of success.
