I want to be an actor. What is a good "back up" or plan B?

Question

I've taken college courses on acting and musical theatre, and I really want to persue it, but i need something to pay the bills. Preferably something in the Theatre.

I was thinking set builder, or designer, or something like that, but i have no idea how to get started in something like that. I'd like to do pretty much anything in the theatre, but this is the one thing ive had some minimal experience with (i know how to use a hammer and drill, pretty much)

Any suggestions?

Answer 1

I heard you can try out for things in the theatre in Philadelphia. If you want to be on TV they are having auditions for Disney shows in Philadelphia and auditions for Nickelodeon shows will start in a few years.

But if you want to be a set builder or something. Try looking for job offers in major cities and you may see something that says  a theatre needs help for a set builder.

Answer 2

I would recommend a dinner theatre. You could be a server and still feel like part of the show.

I would not suggest being part of the crew. As a technician, having  inexperienced actors backstage or in the shop is very distracting and tends to lead towards wasted materials.

If you have no experience backstage, no one will pay you.

I really don't mean to be harsh, but I am trying to be truthful.

If you want a job that deals with theatre, I would look into things that put you around people. Talk to the house manager of the theatre; see if there are any front of house positions. This way you are still learning something that you could use to your advantage.

Answer 3

The ultimate back up for any actor would probably be teaching Drama. That way you'd be able to use your skills in acting and musical theatre and share your knowledge with others. I taught theatresports last year and honestly, I had more fun building up the teams confidence and teaching them how to work together than I did the previous year, when I was in the team myself.

You could try organising a drama club for kids at your local community centre once or twice a week, or offer your skills to schools as an after-school class. That way you'll have plenty of time to persue your career while at the same time bringing in a bit of extra cash.

Also, if your career falls through, you can go to college and get your teachers degree to become a professional (if you wish)