How to Hit the Ground Running When You Are in a New Market : PerformerStuff More Good Stuff

How to Hit the Ground Running When You Are in a New Market

Written by Courtney Locke

July 18, 2017

Unsure of what to do when you enter a new city where the theatre community is lightyears different than where you came from? We’ve got some advice for that dilemma.

Google!

Google everything! Studios, theaters, auditions, agencies, opportunities! Google it all, write it down, bookmark it, put it on your calendar. If you see or hear, even the slightest bit of information; become an amateur detective and get to the bottom of it. You might just find your next big job or side gig.

Introduce yourself…to everyone.

At auditions, in the street, at a class — talk to everyone and let them know what you are doing. To some, it may seem narcissistic. But you will be surprised on who you might be introduced to and who is in the industry, too. You will make friends and connections!

Social Media with Only a Hint of Stalking

After you have met these people, stalk them like Glenn Close…just don’t boil any rabbits. Pay attention to where they have worked and research those companies for upcoming opportunities. You might find a job or at least a great new place to see a show.

Ask!

Message, ask out for coffee, send an email asking if someone needs an actor, dancer, choreographer. Be the ”do anything as long as it is in a theatre” person. Send your resume and headshot out to whomever you want to work with. This could lead to opportunities you didn’t even know were available.

Support!

This may seem simple, but some of us can be terrible about doing it. Whether it’s by social media or actually in person, support your fellow creatives. Buy a ticket, or if money is tight, volunteer to usher for a show at a theatre you want to work at.

Trial Classes, Groupon, Work Study

Before I even got to Atlanta, I emailed several studios about work-study programs. If you are a dancer, this is a great way to save money and get your training. Take advantage of every free or trial class. Get on Groupon. They always have great deals!

Agency Help

If you are already represented in one market, ask your agent for a meeting. They can put in a good word for you at agencies they are affiliated with. Make sure to be direct with your agent about your goals. The more money you make, the more they do too.

Contests

Find the local 48Hr Film Fest, if you need new footage for your reel. Go to karaoke contests, open mic nights, and/or submit to be an artist in residency. When you are in a new market, go to where you will be seen, can meet people, and maybe win some rent money.

Let the Information Come to You

I started a Facebook group to allow other people to post and learn about new opportunities. This is a great collaborative way to book a job but also find collaborators to create your own work.

Try Something New!

Your goals and dreams may be Broadway and screen, but new opportunities can get you ready for these in a huge way.

Need some advice? We’ve got you covered.

Courtney Locke is currently choreographing for the Atlanta Children’s Theater. Her credits include leading roles in Rent, The Wedding Singer, Chicago, and Cinderella. National commercials and a supporting role in the feature, The Pizza Joint. She will be joining the Springer Opera House, this fall, for their production of Dreamgirls .