Fun Fact: I have moved over 13 times in my 17 years of existence. Kind of a lot, I know. With relocating I have definitely struggled with getting “in” with companies and figuring out what all the area has to offer. Keep reading to hear more about my personal journey with moving so many times and how that it’s impacted my theatre life.
I highly recommend gathering as much information from fellow actors, directors, and instructors. In some cases, people tend to branch off from certain theatre companies and start their own theatre ministry or dance studio, or something of that nature. The more you ask questions the more you know, and thus the more you learn. It’s a beautiful thing.
For me personally, I have moved around. There were some areas that my family and I lived in that there were no theatres or dance studios close by. When I finally moved to Lancaster, it was theatre galore! I was amazed at how many people were involved in theatrical arts, whether it was through dancing or acting.
When I first got here, I was so overwhelmed, and everyone knew everyone from different shows they had been in together or seen or heard about. Let me tell you, I had a lot of catch up work to do! The more questions I asked the more I learned. Questions like “Where do you dance?”, “What shows have you been in before?” brought to my attention even more places I never knew existed.
Whenever a show I was in was close to ending I would always ask my fellow cast members “So what are you doing next?”. The more people you know in your field of interest the more you can use that information to your benefit. You can learn about how the auditions work with certain company if you know someone who has been in a show there, which can help you prepare better. Connections are key.
Another thing that helped me get to know more people was through social media. Pictures, tags and going through website cast lists helped me a lot. There were some people I knew that I never met because I’ve seen them on the internet or heard their names mentioned. It’s not stalking, it’s Connections! They are so extremely helpful, and the more people you can have the opportunity to work with, the better!
Can you relate to me with me moving around? Have you struggled with getting acquainted with a theatre company or a dance company? Let me know in the comments!