The performing arts may be one of the most competitive fields, but it’s far from a dead-end dream.
According to the National Endowment for the Arts and the Bureau of Economic Analysis, arts and culture contributed $1.17 trillion to the U.S. economy in 2023, representing 4.2% of GDP and supporting millions of jobs nationwide.
That scale proves opportunity exists, but breaking in requires more than raw talent.
And you can set yourself apart by treating your career like a business - building resilience, networking with intention, and crafting a performer resume that markets your skills as powerfully as your performance on stage.
Here’s are 7 insights that will help you build a sustainable career in the performing arts.
Is a Performing Arts Career a Realistic Goal?
Absolutely, but it requires a strategic and entrepreneurial mindset. While competition is fierce, the arts and entertainment sector is a significant contributor to the economy.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 20% of graduates with a fine and performing arts degree were employed in arts, design, entertainment, sports, and media occupations.
While a formal education can be beneficial, it's your talent, persistence, and business acumen that will ultimately determine your success.
A well-crafted artist resume can be a powerful tool in showcasing your unique skills and experiences.
What is the Job Outlook for Performers?
The job outlook for performers varies by discipline.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the employment of dancers and choreographers will grow by 5% from 2024 to 2034, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
However, for actors, the growth is projected to be little to no change, and for musicians and singers, it's projected to grow by 1% over the same period.
These figures highlight the competitive nature of the field. Many performers supplement their income with other work, and periods of unemployment are common.
To stand out, it's crucial to have a compelling acting resume that highlights your training, experience, and unique talents.
What Skills Do I Need to Succeed?
Beyond your artistic talent, certain skills are essential for a sustainable career in the performing arts.
According to an article from Prospects, confidence and communication are paramount.
The ability to network and market yourself is also crucial, as many performers are self-employed and must constantly seek out new opportunities.
Here are some of the key skills to cultivate:
- Creativity and Adaptability: The ability to think outside the box and adapt to different roles and environments is essential.
- Discipline and Resilience: The performing arts demand consistent practice and the ability to bounce back from rejection.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Most performances are a collaborative effort, requiring you to work effectively with others.
- Business and Financial Management: As a performer, you are your own business. Understanding marketing, budgeting, and financial planning is non-negotiable.
How Can I Build a Strong Personal Brand?
In a crowded marketplace, a strong personal brand can help you stand out. Your brand is more than just a headshot; it's the story you tell about yourself as an artist.
Start by asking yourself:
- What makes my work unique?
- What are my core values as an artist?
- Who is my target audience?
Once you have a clear understanding of your brand, you can start to build your online presence.
A professional website and active social media profiles are essential tools for connecting with your audience and industry professionals.
How Do I Effectively Network in the Arts?
Networking in the arts is about building genuine relationships, not just collecting business cards.
According to an article from Ceri Hand, many successful art careers are built on a foundation of 10-15 key champions. These are people who understand and advocate for your work.
Here are some tips for effective networking:
- Attend industry events: Go to performances, workshops, and conferences to meet other artists and industry professionals.
- Leverage social media: Follow and engage with artists, directors, and companies you admire.
- Be genuine and generous: Focus on building authentic connections and finding ways to support others in your network.
- Follow up: After you meet someone, send a personalized follow-up message to continue the conversation.
How Should I Manage My Finances as an Artist?
Financial planning is often a challenge for artists due to the irregular nature of their income.
It's important to track your income and expenses meticulously, create a budget, and plan for taxes.
Here are some key financial strategies for artists:
- Create a budget: Track your income and expenses to understand where your money is going.
- Build an emergency fund: Aim to save at least three to six months' worth of living expenses.
- Plan for taxes: If you're self-employed, you'll need to set aside money for taxes and pay them quarterly.
- Diversify your income streams: Don't rely on a single source of income. Consider teaching, coaching, or other related work to supplement your performance income.
How Can I Create a Compelling Performer Resume?
Your resume is often the first impression you make on a casting director or agent.
It needs to be professional, easy to read, and tailored to the specific opportunity you're applying for.
Here are some tips for creating a standout performer resume:
- Include a professional headshot: Your headshot should be a high-quality photo that looks like you on a good day.
- List your vital statistics: Include your height, weight, hair and eye color, and vocal range (if applicable).
- Highlight your training and experience: List your most impressive credits first and include the name of the character, the production, and the theater or production company.
- Showcase your special skills: Include any unique skills that might be relevant to a role, such as proficiency in a particular dialect, a musical instrument, or a type of dance.
Also Read: How to get Disney jobs?
Wrapping Up
A career in the performing arts is never easy, but it is possible.
Success comes from combining your talent with persistence, discipline, and the ability to treat your craft like a business.
How you present yourself on stage, in auditions, and through your resume or online profile, can make all the difference in getting noticed.
If you’re looking for a way to refine those essentials, Hiration can help polish the pieces that support your journey.
From your resume, interview prep, cover letters, and LinkedIn profile, so you can focus on what matters most: your performance.
