Will I have a chance at being successful in the Musical Theatre business?

Posted: 8/2/13 at 10:19pm

I am about to be a junior in high school, and Musical Theatre is, for sure, what I want to pursue. I love performing more than anything. But I'm afraid that there aren't many opportunities for me in the performance business.

I'm a black/hispanic bass-baritone (currently working on hitting higher notes), and I'm just not sure I'm "marketable" enough. I know personal talent is a factor of course, though I feel even if I were extremely talented that there are still limited roles available for me.

I am working on my skills (vocal and dance lessons, musicals, show choir, etc.), and I know I want to do Musical Theater. I've been looking at MT colleges, planning, everything. I just want your guys' opinion on the matter, I would really appreciate it!



Updated On: 8/3/13 at 10:19 PM

[AwesomeDanny]

Posted: 8/5/13 at 4:45am

Nobody can give you a definitive answer. Some amazingly talented people struggle for years upon years to achieve success, while some less talented actors will get lucky and become stars. Luck is as much a part of it as talent and dedication. It also depends on what you definition of success is. Chances are you will work other jobs to supplement your income for quite a while. I've heard many professionals say to young people interested in pursuing a career in theatre, "If you can imagine yourself happy doing anything else, do it." It's a tough business, but it you're truly dedicated, you won't take "no" for an answer.

On a side note, you can have a career in the theatre beyond being a performer in musicals. There's a whole world of straight plays you're ignoring, and you could also be a writer, director, designer, stage manager, etc.

[Doughie]

Posted: 8/6/13 at 8:09am

Of course you can be successful! You have as good a chance as any!

Yes, your look might make it difficult to get some of the bigger roles, but not impossible!
You can audition for The Lion King, West side story, Book of Mormon, Rent etc. And there are LOADS of musicals in need of big roles and cast members with all kinds of looks! In Wicked and Shrek for example the cast were a wonderful mix of people from all over the world!

Prepare to work hard, the show business is a rough place. But if you keep working on your skills and believe in yourself, you might get there :)