10 things you need to know to succeed in the performing arts
What does it really take to build a career in the performing arts? Talent helps, but it’s only one part of the story. We spoke to Performers College industry experts about what it takes to build a thriving, long-lasting career in the industry.
From mastering consistency to creating your own opportunities, these are the lessons that can help you build a career doing what you love:
1. Be seen – master the art of self-tapes and social media
“You’re auditioning from your phone now. And your next job could come from your feed.” – Leanne Everitt (Careers Manager)
In today’s world, your online presence is part of your portfolio. Learn how to present yourself confidently on camera, whether that’s for an audition tape or a social post. Think of your social media as a professional stage: a place to share your work, your personality, and your journey authentically.
2. Confidence is built, not born
“Confidence isn’t luck. It’s learned. You get it from doing the work – again and again.” – Tony Parrie (Principal Lecturer, Jazz and Tap)
Confidence comes from practice, not perfection. Every performance, workshop, and feedback session adds another layer of self-belief. Don’t wait until you feel ready – start now, take the stage, and learn as you go. The more you put yourself out there, the more naturally confidence follows.
3. You are enough – your type is your strength
“You don’t have to fit every role. You just need to own the ones that fit you.” – Klara Hricik (Principal Lecturer of Acting)
You don’t need to change who you are to succeed – you need to understand what makes you you. Casting directors aren’t looking for someone who fits every part; they’re looking for someone authentic. Learn to recognise your strengths, embrace your individuality, and walk into auditions knowing that being genuine is your greatest asset.
4. Business skills keep you in the industry
“Being a great performer is half the job. Knowing how to work – and get paid – is the other half.” – Kieran Jae (Deputy Course Leader, BA Musical Theatre & Dance)
A big part of being a performer is developing the skills that support you beyond the stage. Maybe you’re great at writing, designing, or social media – these talents are all valuable! Discovering your strengths outside of performing helps you become a more adaptable, well-rounded creative capable of taking on different roles. You might even uncover a new passion along the way.
5. Rejection is normal – resilience is essential
“You’ll hear ‘no’ more than ‘yes’. The winners? They keep going.” – Tony Parrie (Principal Lecturer, Jazz and Tap)
Everyone’s heard the saying ‘rejection is redirection’. Every “no” teaches you something: about your craft, your approach, or your timing. Learn to take feedback, move forward, and trust that the right opportunities will come when you’re ready for them. Looking after your mental health and finding ways to stay positive are just as vital as perfecting your technique.
6. Your network is your career net
“It’s not just who you know – it’s who remembers you, trusts you, and wants to work with you again.” – Kieran Jae (Deputy Course Leader, BA Musical Theatre & Dance)
The performing arts industry is built on relationships. Be the kind of person people remember for the right reasons: professional, prepared, kind. Connect genuinely with classmates, guest tutors, and visiting professionals, as you never know which rehearsal partner might be your next big opportunity.
7. Versatility gets you work – adaptability keeps you working
“Triple-threats get more auditions. Shape-shifters keep careers alive.” – Klara Hricik (Principal Lecturer of Acting)
The industry is always evolving – and so should you. Stretch yourself. Try new styles, new genres, new mediums. Sing, dance, act, experiment. The more adaptable you are, the more opportunities will come your way. The performers who last are the ones who never stop learning.
8. Don’t wait to be discovered – create your own opportunities
“Make the work you want to be hired for. Don’t wait – create.” – Leanne Everitt (Careers Manager)
The industry rewards initiative. If you can’t find the opportunity you want, build it yourself – write, choreograph, produce, collaborate. Start small, keep experimenting, and put your work out there. Every creative project teaches you something new and opens doors you didn’t even know existed.
9. Talent is common – consistency is what counts
“Talent gets you noticed. Consistency gets you booked – again and again.” – Kieran Jae (Deputy Course Leader, BA Musical Theatre & Dance)
Everyone’s talented. The real pros are the ones who keep showing up, on time, every time, ready to work. That kind of reliability builds trust, and trust builds careers. Treat your training like the job itself: give 100%, stay consistent, and your discipline will shine through long after the final bow.
10. Collaboration is key – be someone people want to work with
“Talent gets you in. Professionalism gets you rebooked.” – Tony Parrie (Principal Lecturer, Jazz and Tap)
Want to be unforgettable? Be kind to the people you work with. The best performers know how to lift a team, not just themselves. In group rehearsals, listen as much as you lead, and show respect for everyone in the room. Your technical skills might win you a job, but your attitude will keep you in the room.
At Performers College, you’re surrounded by people who’ve been there – mentors, lecturers, and industry professionals who know what it takes to succeed. But it’s your passion, discipline, and creativity that will make it happen.
Ready to get started? Explore our courses and book onto an Open Day today.
To discover more about Performers College, including auditions and how to apply, contact us at [email protected] or you can Apply Now, or book an Open Day on our Events page.
