There isn’t a person on the planet who can say that they haven’t considered a career in the arts—without their fingers crossed, at least. The performing arts industry is an industry that holds its arms open to the masses, both behind the scenes, on the stage and everywhere in between, thus pursuing a career within it is certainly worth a second thought. Read on to learn more about careers in the arts and discover if one may be for you.
How To Get Into The Industry
Many get their start in the industry by taking classes in courses of their interest such as dance, composition, theatre, production and more. Many, also, shadow more seasoned individuals in their field to gain more knowledge and hands-on experience.
Like any other career path, internships and apprenticeships are very important to build your skill and rapport within the industry, especially in the entertainment industry. It will do you a lot of favours if you’re able to refer to notable individuals you’ve worked with or even have them vouch for you when it comes to future opportunities.
Also, don’t be afraid to start small. A less challenging, low-profile job is still a job, and earns you experience. Lastly, it is important for you to be creative and confident in such a competitive industry.
London And The Arts
Visual and performing arts are influential across the world, especially in London. London is home to a number of prestigious institutions that teach and develop talent in several respects, such as Hornsey School for Girls; the secondary school specializes in performing arts and incorporates its foundations into its curriculum. It encourages individuality by allowing students to participate in and develop their skills through activities and organisations of their choice, specialising in music, theatre and more.
Another reputable institution of performing arts is the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA), which, founded in 1861, is the oldest drama school in the UK. LAMDA has educated alumni who now work in the industry globally and who have accumulated nearly one hundred awards collectively. This works to prove that there is a plethora of opportunity available within the arts.
Careers In The Arts
Almost all of the careers within the performing arts industry are perfect for those who seek a creative platform. Below, are some of the most popular careers in the industry, as well as how you can begin working toward them:
Dancer: This is a great option for individuals interested in performing arts because dance is a very open field in itself. You can personalise it by choosing your own focus and can be more selective in selecting positions in movies, videos, plays, commercials and much more. Studying dance and apprenticing choreographers are excellent ways to get your start as a dancer.
Actor: Actors can be considered some of the most creative in the industry because they are the only ones who cannot completely be themselves. This is a beneficial career for those who are interested in theatre and are naturally persuasive. Studying theatre, participating in local and school-sponsored screenplays and even working as an extra are simple ways to begin your acting career.
Director or screenwriter: If you’re passionate about theatre, but not as enthralled about the limelight, don’t fret. The arts industry needs you, too! Consider developing your writing skills in university and participating in local plays to begin your path toward a career as a director or screenwriter.
Performing arts teacher/professor: Do you love to help others? Have you always wanted to be a teacher? Well, you’re in luck. You can combine your love for performing arts and education by becoming a teacher or professor in your beloved field. You can choose to study education and performing arts or performing arts alone to develop your own curriculum and soon, you’ll be on your way to becoming a performing arts scholar.
There are many degrees that serve a purpose in a number of careers in the arts, and there will always be a demand for creative individuals in the industry. The simplest way to find your ideal career in performing arts is by studying it, strengthening your knowledge and, then, applying it in smaller-scale projects as you work your way up. While the path way to stardom and success is seldom straightforward, you won’t know what you can do until you try. So, break a leg!