Bitten by the Bug

You’re sitting in the theater watching a play – any theater, any play will do at this point. You’re enjoying everything you see when... WAIT...what’s going on? Your skin is itching, your face is hot, your blood is racing to your heart – you can barely sit still. You can no longer bear to be a spectator to something that you suspect is taking over your very existence – you MUST be involved, somehow, someway. If you don’t do something soon, you may never be able to watch theater or movies or even tv again. You’ve been bitten by the theater bug and you’d better act fast (ha, ha)!

All joking aside, once this urge to participate hits you, it’s best to go with it. Where should you go with it? To a local theater, as fast as your legs or car or bike will take you. Why? Because they need enthusiastic volunteers and you need any and all experience that local and regional theater can give you. Are you already in a theater school? Terrific, you still need to immerse yourself in the processes of real, working theaters. Not in school yet? Great, you’ll have an opportunity to discuss your options with talented folks who can give you the scoop on what really matters. Depending on the size and focus of the theater or theaters that you choose to grace with your presence, you may receive opportunities to direct, produce, stage manage, star, costume, etc. that would not be available to you otherwise. Ushering, ticket sales, promotional duties, and other similar work is often available. If you really want to work in a theater someday, in any capacity, then get yourself to a theater. NOW.

A few caveats. When you get to said theater, be respectful. Of everyone and everything. Don’t assume that because someone is sweeping out the restrooms that they aren’t an accomplished playwright or the artistic director or an Equity member. Real theater people often wear many hats, as much because they enjoy doing so as because they sometimes need to do so. Don’t kiss anyone’s ass (it’s rarely worth it); instead, put on a professional face, roll up your sleeves, and be prepared for a great adventure. Find out what you can do now, and DO it. Follow through on your commitments, and your experience will be golden. Yogi Berra said at some point that “90% of life is showing up”. In theater, that’s doubly true. At the same time, recognize that once you establish yourself as a reliable and talented individual, your entire life can be spent moving from one (or two or three) unpaid/low paid project to another. Know your limits, and learn how to say, “I’m sorry, but my plate is really full right now. I hope we’re able to work together in the future.” Say it with me: “No, I can’t”. It’s simple, it’s important, and it doesn’t mean that you will never be asked to work again.

Keep careful track of your shows, capacity played, and contacts. It’s too easy to forget details weeks and months down the line. When you get phone numbers, file them away (but keep them discreet – it’s not professional to share other people’s personal info without their permission). If possible keep a portfolio of your work. Take notes. Grow, share, become a professional one (or two or three) project(s) at a time. Wherever you end up later, the experiences you have here will serve you well all of your life.

Next time: Cold Readings (how cold are they?)