Training in Performing Arts

Performing Arts Training is extremely important to people who want a career within the profession. You only have to watch the recent return of X-FACTOR as hundreds of hopefuls face a barrage of public humiliation in order to pursue their dreams to know that this is a tough profession. X-CEL investigates the hurdles faced by individuals who wish to pursue a Career in the Performing Arts and looks at the importance of experience through training.

Performing Arts Training
Performing Arts Courses are a definite yes if you are generally serious about pursing a career as a dancer, actor or musician, and want to be able to stand up and face your critics.

Oh and before you say it, yes I know you may have heard the stories about great talents found busking outside the local kebab shop or people being talent spotted in the street and suddenly flown off to Hollywood. However, these individuals amount to only a small lucky percentage of the working profession. Students who receive training in their field do so not only to develop their skills and gain experience but also to gain an insight into the realities of their profession before fully entering it. Whilst training in the performing arts you will not only learn how to perfect your skills but have a chance to find an agent, perfect your CV and to build a portfolio of experience. You may also have the opportunity to work with resident or visiting professionals gaining strong contacts and advice for your future.
 
However, training not only builds on your technical abilities as an artist but also works and strengthens your belief system. You should hopefully leave your training with the ability and strength to turn up to a room full of hundreds of individuals all wanting that ONE job to look the director in the eye and say "I'm the one you want" and to genuinely believe it. For in this industry belief is everything!
 
This is probably why performing artists can often be thought of as arrogant, however, how many plumbers or electricians would you hire if they said "I'm not sure if I can do it but hey I'll give it a go". Just like these profession working and making a career in the arts takes a lot of dedication, contacts but above all a belief in your skills to do a good job. So, how do you get that belief? Through experience...and how do you get the experience? Through training!
 
Performing Arts Schools
However, before you go out and buy your matching leotard and sweatbands throw yourself on a taxi and start singing the theme from Fame do remember that auditioning for a Performing Arts School is, like the profession, fiercely competitive. You will often be expected take part in a workshop audition with other students as well as perform individual pieces. For example, at a Drama School audition students are expected to deliver a two-minute monologue from both a classical and contemporary play as well as take part in a drama workshop to see how students interact with each other. Auditions can often last all day and, whilst the auditioning process may differ from school to school, you should be officially informed within a week after your audition by letter on your success.
 
So, if you are really serious about a career in the performing arts and believe that you have the talent and aptitude to handle the pitfalls of the profession then why not start applying for audition today...don't worry Simon Cowell will not be there!
 
For advice on training or any other aspect of the Performing Arts contact the Arts Council for England on:
0207 333 0100

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