Hot Tip -- by Shane Clements

We've all heard the story. Aspiring actor, can't find work, being a waiter/waitress...blah, blah, blah. How is it that some select few make a living and others don't? Well, the same story holds true for those who prefer to work in theatre, but in jobs behind the curtain.

Here's some tips about succeeding in theatre. Unfortunately, doing all of these things won't guarantee a steady pay cheque --which can be hard to come by-- but they can help and may save some grief.

One thing to keep in mind is people who enjoy theatre the most are people who don't do it because they think one day they'll be rich or famous. They do it because they love to express themselves and like working in a creative environment. They all would love to be very successful in the end, but want to continue even if they don't "make it big."

The first thing to do is get experience in any and all aspects of theatre. Wherever you can. Experience is key. When you start out, look for any opportunity to gain experience. Likely these experiences won't be paid as volunteers are the backbone of Canadian theatre. Here's a list of local theatre groups you might want to consider joining.

Next, take workshops and lessons in a variety of skills. Learn all aspects of theatre, from promotions, to lighting, to front of house, to carpentry... anything. You never know what job you might like, or be asked to do. The wider range of skills you have the better your chances to find work.

Get to know people in the community. When you can, introduce yourself to actors, directors, producers, set designers.... Attend plays and theatre events. Theatre is definitely an industry of who you know and those who know what you can do.

Last and most importantly, consider a day job while you gain experience. Are there other more '9 to 5' interests that you can explore while you are getting started? Many "before they were famous" stories show how people were successful in other, sometimes unrelated careers. If you want some ideas about other careers, looking won't hurt and it may help pay the bills.

(Shane Clements is a career counsellor at the Calgary Youth Employment Centre.)