How To Follow the Theater Arts

Perhaps you are considering exploring the theater arts. Where does one begin in exploring? Where does one go to find out more about theater? What various roles are needed in theater besides acting?

It's a good idea to start by learning from the experts. Experts can bring inspiration to anyone interested in the same field of expertise. This inspiration can get you excited about doing further exploration in the theater arts.  A nice place to start is by watching James Lipton's interviews with great TV and film actors in his show Inside the Actor's Studio. This show airs on Bravo (check your local cable guide for the time and specific channel in your region). Granted, many of his actors are not known as stage actors, but many of them had their start in local theaters and theater art classes. They can provide great insights into the whole program of acting and getting one's start into theater. Lipton has interviewed acting greats such as Robert DeNiro, Tom Hanks, Russell Crowe and Queen Latifah. The insights you can glean from this great show can prove to be invaluable.

Part of your education should also include your local theater arts program at a community college. Community colleges should not be regarded as having sub-par programs simply because they are not major universities.  Just like major universities, many community college drama departments feature classes taught by established actors, performers, directors and producers.  In any case, you'll be able to get a good basic education in the history of theater and performance styles at a community college; if you decide to take your education further at a later date, having this background may help you qualify for a university drama program. Remember- even diamonds can be found in coal mines!

Finally, try to get the opportunity to sit in for at least three acting classes to experience some of the broad range of performance and other skills involved in theatre.  It's also a good idea to begin watching local theatrical productions.  If you go to one stage production a month, you'll find that your appreciation of the art form will grow.  To put together a successful theater production requires not only performers and actors but also a good stage production crew, writers, and directors. You may find interest in the hands-on craft of theater, such as stage design, or in some of the other behind the scenes crafts like writing and directing. The talent of the actor needs guidance, so the stage producers, writers and directors are an essential aspect of the theater arts.