The Heartbreaking Truth About Chasing a Musical Theatre Dream
Have you ever been told, "Keep pushing, keep smiling, no matter what"?
In musical theatre, the journey is both thrilling and challenging, physically and emotionally. Between auditions, submissions, rehearsals, support jobs, and everyday life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The truth is, musical theatre isn’t just about singing, dancing, and acting; it’s a demanding career that requires 110% every time we step into a room. But is it worth it?
Why Musical Theatre Demands More Than Talent Alone
Most people think musical theatre is simply about talent. But it requires something deeper—a balance of vulnerability and resilience. Each time we perform, we open ourselves up to judgment, not just of our talent but also of who we are. Add in the shift toward virtual auditions and online submissions, and this career now requires even more emotional energy. It’s a tough path, but we do it because we love it.
The Constant Pressure to Show Up and Be Judged
Our job is to wear our emotions on our sleeves and invite others to judge us—by our talent, appearance, and even our essence. It’s part of the job that no one really prepares us for. As we navigate our careers, we learn that most of our work isn’t on the stage. Most of it is auditioning, submitting, and facing rejection, sometimes without feedback.
Turning Rejection into Opportunity
Finding a way not to take rejection personally is one of the hardest aspects of this career. But what if we flipped the idea of rejection and saw it as an opportunity? Each audition, whether on camera or in person, offers a chance to learn. By reviewing our performances, improving on weak points, and aligning our materials with casting expectations, we can turn setbacks into steps forward.
“Feeling inspired? Don’t miss the full discussion on my YouTube channel! [Watch the video here]
Protecting Your Emotional and Physical Health
Musical theatre takes its toll both emotionally and physically. The physical demands of singing, dancing, and acting, coupled with tight deadlines and constant auditions, make self-care essential. Without outlets like journaling, connecting with fellow artists, and recharging emotionally, it’s easy to feel burned out.
Finding Your ‘Why’ in Musical Theatre
Many of us get into musical theatre because of a single, unforgettable moment—a moment that made us think, This is what I want to do. When the journey feels overwhelming, reconnecting with that initial passion can be powerful. Whether it’s the thrill of performing, the joy of storytelling, or the connection with an audience, remembering your “why” can provide the motivation to keep going.
Musical Theatre’s Rollercoaster of Highs and Lows
This industry is full of ups and downs: rejections, triumphs, disappointments, and moments of joy. But for those who truly love musical theatre, the dream is worth fighting for. Each role, each song, each performance reminds us why we do this. And while it can be emotionally draining, it can also be incredibly rewarding if it brings us happiness and fulfillment.
What I’ve Learned in Almost 30 Years in This Industry
As someone who has spent nearly 30 years in musical theatre—as a performer, professor, and coach—I understand the struggles, the sacrifices, and the passion that drive us. It’s not an easy road, but for those who feel called to it, it’s worth every effort. Don’t let self-doubt, fear, or anyone else's opinions stop you. If this dream is yours, embrace it fully.
Stay Connected with the Journey
If you’re on this path and need a bit of guidance, feel free to explore the resources I share. You can download my free Audition Tracker template or view 50 Ways I've Made Money Off Stage for support jobs that can help you stay in the industry.
Remember, your journey in musical theatre is uniquely yours, and it’s worth every step if it makes you happy.
Ashlee Espinosa is an accomplished theatre professional with a Master of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. As a seasoned actress, passionate educator, and dedicated career advisor, she empowers artists to build fulfilling, purpose-driven careers defined by their unique vision of success.
