Get Ahead This Summer - 5 Ideas for Performing Arts Students

Summer vacation is finally here!

What are your plans for the Summer? Hanging out with friends and mastering the latest social media app? Spending time at the lake or beach? Getting a part-time job? (If it was the last one then good for you!)

Here are a few suggestions that you might not have thought about that can REALLY have a positive outcome on your future if you want to be a musical theater major. 

1. Take dance classes - If you are not currently taking dance and you want to be a music theater major you are putting yourself at a disadvantage. You really do have to “do it all” to have a career in musical theater these days. If you struggle with dance then summer is a great time to get in there and get some extra classes in - class size is usually smaller and you can get some much needed attention. You may want to invest in private lessons to work on technical issues. Teachers will likely have more free time in the summer to devote to private lessons.

2. Take acting classes - Acting classes may be a little harder to find in your area but there are plenty of online coaching programs that specialize in acting. You can sign up with a coach and work on monologues via Zoom. This is a great time to start putting together monologues that you can use for pre-screen videos or for masterclasses at various summer programs. Summer will give you some extra time to research monologues and try out a few different types to find the one that is right for you.

3. Take piano lessons - Depending on the Universities on your college list, you may be required to take piano as part of your degree requirements. If this is the case, then getting a jump on reading music and becoming familiar with the keyboard will be incredibly helpful! Many college students struggle with piano and I have seen talented students give up due to this basic skill. A couple of summers taking piano lessons will really help you down the road.

4. Take extra voice lessons - Don’t think of summer as the time to “take a break”! Instead, switch up your practice routine. If you regularly take one 30 minute lesson a week try bumping up to an hour lesson. See how your technique changes with a longer focus each week. Or try a 30 minute lesson TWICE a week. If you are struggling with technical issues during your practice that your teacher can quickly fix at your lesson each week, seeing your teacher more often could drastically improve your voice. The point is, think outside the box and don’t be satisfied with your same old routine!

5. Get new headshots - No matter where you are in your high school journey, you need headshots! You need them for auditions, summer programs, and college applications. Find yourself a photographer that is familiar with performance headshots so that your picture looks professional when compared to other candidates. Summer is often a “slow” time for most professionals - photographers included. Sometimes they will offer special deals and discounts during the summer just to keep business coming in. 

I know you're exhausted from the school year so take a week to rest and recuperate… just don't let it drag on the whole summer! Use these summer months to your advantage and you'll be ahead of your competition come Fal!

If you are a young performer who is serious about pursuing a career in the performing arts I would love to stay in touch with you! Join my email list to be the first to receive the tips and tools you need to reach your goals. You can also schedule a FREE 30 minute consultation by filling out the contact form on my home page.