So, what does it take to be a performer? To become a performer, you must be able to display a talent that has the potential to entertain others. The performing arts industry is highly competitive but can be really rewarding. In this blog we cover some tips on how to become a successful performer.
What does a performer do?
A performer can be anyone who entertains an audience. This is usually done through acting, singing or dancing. Performers can play characters both on stage and on screen and often take on a wide range of roles during their career.
As well as the obvious performing, performers have many different responsibilities. They must successfully learn lines, research the character and different acting methods, attend rehearsals, collaborate with other performers, and take advice from the director. Being a performer combines numerous skills and is not a career path that comes without its challenges.
What skills does a performer need?
If you wish to become a performer, some of the most important skills you need are confidence, dedication and enthusiasm. To continue honing your performance ability, commitment and practice is required. The best performers in the industry are those who are constantly improving and working to develop their expertise.
The amount of time you put into perfecting your art is reflected in your performance. Many performers undertake a variety of lessons or courses to enhance their talent. Although in-person courses are great for this, online courses are also readily available for aspiring performers who want to have more control over when and how they practice.
Many performers are well-practised and involved in multiple areas of the performing arts industry. The benefits to having an understanding of both acting, singing and dancing is that it widens your confidence. It also gives you more flexibility in the roles you can audition for, as some may require you to show experience in multiple performing arts disciplines.
As a performer it is also important that you are able to take direction and criticism well. As with any audience-facing role, you are going to receive feedback whether you ask for it or not. When you receive feedback that is negative it is crucial that you do not let it set you back. Instead, take it as an opportunity to improve and work on any potential weaknesses. This will all contribute to making you a stronger performer in the future!
How do you pursue a career as a performer?
There are no specific requirements to be able to pursue a career. Although some will have a degree or qualifications in theatre and performance, or may have attended an acting school, most performers get most of their opportunities through experience and contacts.
Consider joining amateur acting clubs and auditioning for as many roles as possible with local theatre companies. Signing up to film and tv extras casting agencies is also a really great way to get experience in the industry, no matter how small the role.
To gain skills and knowledge, you may want to consider signing up to a range of courses. These courses can cover all aspects of performance, from voice acting, to comedy and stand-up, and commercial dance.
The importance of being proactive
It is vital that you are proactive in your desire to be a performer. Attend auditions, record your own performances or short films to share on social media, and try to maintain a strong online presence. It’s also a good idea to establish a network of contacts. Sign up to courses and try to meet people who have a similar interest in the arts and performance industry, get your name out there, and email your CV, portfolio, or self-tapes to everyone who has the potential to notice.
What courses should an aspiring performer sign up for?
There are many courses that you can sign up for to help you on your journey to becoming a performer. Online courses are often really reasonable in terms of pricing for a monthly subscription and do not come with any additional travel costs or logistical issues. Our online drama school, iampro, offers a diverse range of courses and live events that are great for beginners, amateurs, and professionals.
In terms of more general advice, iampro also offers great 1-1 mentoring opportunities and talks from industry professionals. The self-tape challenge, a monthly opportunity to submit a self-tape of a set monologue, is the best way to get direct feedback from those who have a great understanding of or experience in the industry.
If you want to find out more about what it takes to be a performer and how iampro can help you reach your performance goals, just sign up.
