
Reaction: Nerdy
Subterms
Part 1: Setting Up & Building Your Actor Website
How do I even get started setting up my site anyway?
I’m sure many of you have said “I should really set up a website,” only to realize you have no idea where to get started. Well, that’s where I come in here. Many platforms make building your website a LOT easier. These platforms are known as “drag-and-drop” builders. Think of it as dragging a block of content onto a page, instead of coding it with numerous symbols and numbers. If you want an image somewhere specific on your site, drag the image block in place and upload your desired picture from your computer. For this tutorial, we will be using the popular site builder WIX A quick note: There are other sophisticated platforms out there such as WordPress, but they require more skill and attention. For a basic actor portfolio website, Wix offers everything you need, and it’s very easy to use. You will get your site set up much more quickly using a builder like WiX.Building Your Actor Website Step 1: Choose A Website Builder And Signup
As mentioned, we will be using Wix as an example, and what I recommend for those with no previous web building experience. It's also cheaper, $11 per month will give you access to your own unique domain name and remove all the Wix branding ads, so your site looks professional.First, you will want to signup for an account at WIX HERE
Click the start now button and fill out the details for creating a new account. Next, a 'create your website' button may appear.
You then may be prompted to choose what kind of site you want. I recommend hitting the 'Portfolio & CV' tab.
Then click the choose a template button.
After this, you will be asked to choose your theme. Don't worry, you can always change it later, but for this example, we will be using the 'Actor & Model' template. Any theme will do.
Choose the 'Edit' option. At this point, your site will load and be ready for editing. Now all you have to do is replace the content with your very own using the drag-and-drop editor. BUT first, there is another critical step. Keep your Wix window open as I explain step 2.
Step 2: Adding your personalized domain name to the website
With the Wix template open, click save in the upper right-hand corner. This will prompt another window. Hit the 'Connect your own customized domain' tab and continue.
Then click the 'Get a new domain' tab.
The great news here is Wix has their own ability to sell you a custom domain name, and they're cheap. You can choose a domain and connect it to your site all on the same platform.
This is the part where you pay for a premium hosting plan. This is a monthly fee for keeping your website online. No matter what platform you use, a hosting fee is always applied. Wix has some of the cheapest plans out there.
You will want to choose the 'Combo,' currently priced at $11/month if you pay a year in advance or $14.50 if you pay monthly.
The benefits of this plan, as opposed to the cheapest plan, are:
- Removal of Wix branding so your site looks professional
- The Combo plan also comes with a FREE domain for one year (for yearly plans only)
- 30 Minutes of video content which is essential for reels and any other video you might want to feature on your site.
Side-Step: Let's take a second to talk about the importance of a domain name
Having your own domain name is crucial for completing a professional looking website. What is a domain name? A domain name is the URL (or web address) that your site lives on. IE: theatrenerds.com. Wix offers a free URL, but it includes Wix in the title which doesn't accomplish a professional look. Here are the examples of the two: A free Wix URL: www.benbaileyaccount.wixsite.benbailey VS. Your own custom domain: benbailey.com So what name should you choose? If you're creating a personal brand site, I suggest keeping it simple and straightforward by using your first and last name, IE benbailey.com. What happens if your domain is already taken by someone else? Here's a few tips:- Try using the first letter of your middle name (or maybe even your entire middle name depending on length and readability). IE benjbailey.com
- If the .com version is not available, choose the .org or .net version (.com is always best though).
- Avoid any unnecessary words at the end IE benjbailey
actor.com
Search the desired domain name, and if it's available, it will allow you to proceed. Click the 'Get It' button.
Next, you will either purchase your domain or receive it for free with your plan.
Note: they may ask you if you want private registration. It's optional and not necessary for what we're doing here.
When you're done purchasing or connecting your domain, you will navigate back to the main dashboard and see that your site is there with the domain connected.
Step 3: Filling In The Content & Publishing
To make changes to your site click 'Site Actions' and then click 'Edit.'
After you're done replacing the current content with your own, you are now ready to publish the site, so it's live to the world! Click 'Publish' in the upper right-hand corner.
Note: You will want to save progress along the way by pushing the save button that always lives in the upper righthand corner
After publishing, you will then be able to view your website! Notice the custom domain appears as the web address (boxed in red).
Congratulations! You have now set up your very own actor website, setting you apart from 90% of the competition. If you read the entire post first, make sure to start from the beginning by singing up with WIX HERE
But how do I actually use the website builder to fill in my content?
Wix offers many tutorials on how to use their intuitive drag-and-drop builder. Even so, it may be a little daunting to get going. That's why we are offering a more in-depth step-by-step videos series on setting up and building your entire site. We will cover the steps discussed here and show you how to replace the information offered in the template, with your own material. We will also cover things like customizing the colors and feel of the site.
Part 2: What Kind Of Content Should My Acting Site Have?
When it comes to the types of content you should have on the site, I like to keep it clean and simple. Think of this as a first impression to anyone who visits. Things should be simple and visually pleasing but offer enough to give someone an idea of who you are, what you do, and what you're capable of doing.Let's break the necessities into 5 main sections. Each of these should be a tab on your sites navigation menu. In most cases, each tab will link to a separate page on your site.
Question: What's should be on the home page? Answer: You should make one of the following sections discussed into the home page. I suggest the 'About Me' section. You could even do a variety of things such as a bio, a few pictures, recent blog posts, and a video. Having a little of everything on the home page is kind of like an overture of your entire website.
Section 1. About Me or 'Bio'
The bio section should be a more informal way to get to know you when compared to the resume section (next up). You want to make this more personable, including things like where you grew up, how you fell in love with performing, and some specific examples of projects you've been a part of. A great example of this is Broadway vet Bret Shuford: https://www.bretshuford.com/bio
Bret does a great job mixing in personal details and professional accomplishments. He is also sure to link to things to help people who may be interested. In his bio alone he links to his YouTube channel, personal life coach brand, and his newsletter. This is a great utilization of getting what you can out of a single page.
Section 2. The Resume
Obviously, your resume page is the most important page on your site. Your resume page should include things downloadable headshots and a resume in PDF format. You also want to include a digital resume on the site itself, so it's easy for producers and casting agents to skim and see if you're a good fit. Then, they can use the download link to keep it on file. Let's take a look at Bret's resume again here: https://www.bretshuford.com/actor
Bret makes it easy for someone to view his resume online or download it. He also includes a reel on his digital resume page which is a nice bonus of an online resume as opposed to a PDF alone.
RESOURCE: For more info on how to write an eye-catching actor resume GO HERE
Section 3. Video/Photos
Video: This one is pretty self-explanatory, but very important as well. Video is how the world consumes content, and video is a much better way to convey if you're right for 'the' part. Video helps show your diversity and gets the casting team in the virtual audition room with you. Even if you don't have an official 'Reel' yet, just put whatever you have for now. Give them something to help get to know you as an actor. iPhones make great videos nowadays so no excuses. I love the way Kim Greenberg organizes her videos HERE Also, check out her entire site, it's another GREAT example of a job well done. Photos: As with video, photos help show you in action. They give a diverse perspective of the looks you can achieve and the characters you could potentially play. Let's face it, looks have a lot to do with casting, and I don't mean how attractive you are. Casting is a game of chemistry and having the perfect 'Fit' for a show. It's like interior design... everyone has to 'go with' each other within the style of a show or job. Photo tips: Try and include some lifestyle photos, headshots and photos of you in a production or on the job. I love how Megan McGinnis organizes her projects into categories HERE Pro Tip: You can put photos and videos under one category in your navigation menu by labeling it 'Media' and dropping those as categories underneath.Section 4. Contact Section
Although your contact info will most likely be on the resume, having a dedicated section for it is recommended. Here you will include things like:- Contact email (Phone not recommended)
- Agent Phone/Email (If Applicable)
- Where you are located: This doesn't have to be the specific address, city and state would suffice.
Section 5. News/Blog
While not entirely necessary, the news or blog section is a chance to brag about the projects you've done, and let people get to know you more. I've seen some actor websites with just news, some with just a blog, and others with both. It's up to you, but I suggest having a blog too! A blog will help you build loyal readers which is another term for fans! Letting someone in behind the scenes of your life can be a great way to create a personal brand of influence. Think about it; we love an inside scoop into people's lives.
That's A Wrap, Folks
You should think of your website as a tree with two different branches. One branch is for professional inquiries, and the other branch is for building a personal brand or fanbase. A blog can be an easy way to market yourself without feeling too... salesy. However, there is nothing wrong with self-promotion, but I'll save that for another post. I can't force you to create your own actor website, but my goal here was to at least make it easier and to see the long-lasting benefits. It's also a great way to document your journey as an actor and collect many memories of shows and gigs gone by.Questions or comments? Leave them below and I'll answer...
[post_title] => How To Setup, Build And Launch Your Personal Actor Website [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => how-to-setup-build-launch-your-personal-actor-website [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://theatrenerds.com/how-to-write-acting-resume/ [post_modified] => 2019-11-07 20:04:45 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-11-08 01:04:45 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=367974 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 367954 [post_author] => 639 [post_date] => 2018-09-28 21:23:30 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-09-29 01:23:30 [post_content] => How many Broadway shows can you name with just the first line of the opening number? Don't let the images below throw you off ;) [viralQuiz id=85]Try Another Quiz: Can You Identify The Musical Based On One Image?
[post_title] => Quiz: Name These Shows Based On The First Line Of The Opening Number [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-name-shows-based-first-line-opening-number [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-29 12:28:48 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-29 16:28:48 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=367954 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 367944 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2018-09-28 11:38:40 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-09-28 15:38:40 [post_content] => Contrary to popular belief, arts and sports have points of similarity. Both require intense determination, focus, determination and practice to achieve the highest results and are evaluated in a publicly viewed final test. And while Broadway does have its yearly Tony Awards to celebrate and honor outstanding artistic achievement, but what if it also had its own Olympics in which arts and sports collided?Here are nine awards we’d like to see given out at the Broadway Olympics:
1. Highest Note
via GIPHY Singing does require a certain amount of natural talent, but singers also train and keep their vocal chords in healthy shape to sing at their highest level. It’s safe to say that anyone who plays Christine in “The Phantom of the Opera” would likely qualify for this event.2. Fastest Quick-Change
via GIPHY Actors could give Olympic sprinters a run for their money when it comes to making a costume change before reappearing onstage in record time.3. Most Difficult Dance Sequence Completed Without Falling
via GIPHY Similar to figure skating or gymnastics, this event’s judging would examine artistic factors and difficulty. Newspaper dancing, anyone?4. Longest-Lasting Stage Makeup
The sweat is real, and making it through a show without sweating off makeup can be a race of its own.
5. Longest Dance Sequence
via GIPHY Speaking of sweat, who doesn’t love a big, rousing dance number? Mix equal parts sweat with stamina, and those dancers leave everyone wondering how they haven’t collapsed from exhaustion.6. Longest Note Held
via GIPHY Audiences love when singers blow their minds by holding a note longer than anyone ever thought humanly possible. Work those diaphragms, people!7. Most Intense Sexual Tension
via GIPHY This is the you-could-cut-that-craziness-with-a-knife-and-why-can’t-these-two-just-get-it-together-already kind that has you shipping that couple throughout the show and long after you leave the theatre.8. Most Convincing Death Scene
This event requires precision, emotional depth, and the right physicality to make it believable. The combination needs to be exact, which means there is a higher likelihood of getting it wrong. Done right, and audiences should be left ugly-crying their hearts out.
9. Best Stage Combat Sequence
Stage combat is a lot like dancing. Choreographed sequences require actors to hit each mark at precisely the right time to avoid the risk of injury. Footwork, prop wielding and turns are only a few of the things actors must remember while also delivering lines and remaining in character. It takes fencing to a whole other level.
It takes work to hone a craft of any kind — and more than winning the award itself, part of the draw to the Olympics is seeing someone finally achieve that goal they set for themselves. So, if your dream is to be up on that stage someday, study those who are successful in the arts but also look beyond to those at the top of other fields, like athletics. Inspiration can come from the most surprising places.
If Broadway had its own Olympics, what events would you want to see? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 9 Competitions We’d Love To See If Broadway Had Its Own Olympics [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 9-competitions-wed-love-to-see-if-broadway-had-its-own-olympics [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-28 11:38:40 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-28 15:38:40 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=367944 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 367777 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2018-09-27 00:10:10 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-09-27 04:10:10 [post_content] => Hamilton: An American Musical has become a phenomenon that has transcended Broadway and into main stream culture. With the enormous size of its track list, there are no shortage of 'Awesome, Wow' quotes from the lyrics. Though the story of Hamilton's life is over 200 years old, many of the themes seem so relevant today. We put together some of our favorite quotes (Lyrics)... Some are serious, some are salty, and the others pretty much speak for themselves.Here are 39 of our favorite Hamilton musical quotes:
1.
My name is Alexander Hamilton
And there’s a million things I haven’t done But just you wait, just you wait
- Hamilton (Alexander Hamilton)
2.
How does a bastard, orphan, son of a whore and a Scotsman, dropped in the middle of a forgotten Spot in the Caribbean by Providence, impoverished, in squalor Grow up to be a hero and a scholar? - Hamilton (Alexander Hamilton)
3.
If you stand for nothing, Burr, what’ll you fall for? - Hamilton (Aaron Burr, Sir)
4.
I am not throwing away my shot I am not throwing away my shot Hey yo, I'm just like my country I'm young, scrappy, and hungry And I'm not throwing away my shot - Hamilton (My Shot)
5.
Raise a glass to freedom Something they can never take away - Mulligan, Laurens, & Lafayette (The Story Of Tonight)
6.
Look around, look around at how Lucky we are to be alive right now - Eliza AND Peggy (The Schuyler Sisters)
7.
'Cause when push comes to shove I will kill your friends and family to remind you of my love - King George (You'll Be Back)
8.
Dying is easy, young man. Living is harder - Washington (Right Hand Man)
9.
Look into your eyes, and the sky’s the limit I’m helpless! - Eliza (Helpless)
10.
And when you said “Hi,” I forgot my dang name, set my heart aflame, ev’ry part aflame - Angelica (Satisfied)
11.
Love doesn't discriminate between the sinners and the saints, it takes and it takes and it takes and we keep loving anyway - Burr (Wait For It)12.
If they don’t reach a peace, that’s alright Time to get some pistols and a doctor on site - Laurens (10 Duel Commandments)
13.
How does a ragtag volunteer army in need of a shower Somehow defeat a global superpower? - Burr (Guns and Ships)
14.
I’m takin this horse by the reins makin’ Redcoats redder with bloodstains - Lafayette (Guns and Ships)
15.
Let me tell you what I wish I’d known When I was young and dreamed of glory: You have no control: Who lives, who dies, who tells your story - Washington and Company (History Has Its Eyes On You)
16.
I’m runnin’ with the Sons of Liberty and I am lovin’ it! See, that’s what happens when you up against the ruffians We in the shit now, somebody gotta shovel it! Hercules Mulligan, I need no introduction When you knock me down I get the fu** back up again! - Mulligan (Yorktown)
17.
You're on your own Awesome...wow - King George (What Comes Next)
18.
We'll bleed and fight for you We'll make it right for you If we lay a strong enough foundation We'll pass it on to you We'll give the world to you and you'll blow us all away
- Burr (Dear Theodosia)
19.
Why do you write like you’re running out of time? Write day and night like you’re running out of time? Ev’ry day you fight, like you’re running out of time - Burr (Non-Stop)
20.
'Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.’ We fought for these ideals; we shouldn’t settle for less These are wise words, enterprising men quote ‘em Don’t act surprised, you guys, cuz I wrote ‘em - Jefferson (Cabinet Battle #1)
21.
My dearest, Angelica “Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow Creeps in this petty pace from day to day” I trust you’ll understand the reference to Another Scottish tragedy without my having to name the play - Hamilton (Take A Break) Couldn't leave out the nod to the Bard ;)
22.
No one really knows how the Parties get to yesssss The pieces that are sacrificed in Ev’ry game of chesssss We just assume that it happens But no one else is in The room where it happens. - Burr (The Room Where It Happens)
23.
Have you an ounce of regret? You accumulate debt, you accumulate power. Yet in their hour of need, you forget. - Jefferson (Cabinet Battle #2)
24.
How you say, no sweat We're finally on the field. We’ve had quite a run Immigrants: We get the job done - Hamilton and Lafayette (Yorktown)25.
Ev'ry action has its equal, opposite reactions. Thanks to Hamilton, our cabinet’s fractured into factions. Try not to crack under the stress, we’re breaking down like fractions. We smack each other in the press, and we don’t print retractions I get no satisfaction witnessing his fits of passion The way he primps and preens and dresses like the pits of fashion - Thomas Jefferson (Washington On Your Side)
26.
I wrote my way out of hell I wrote my way to revolution I was louder than the crack in the bell I wrote Eliza love letters until she fell I wrote about The Constitution and defended it well - Hamilton (Hurricane)
27.
History has its eyes on you. - Washington, Eliza, Angelica & Maria (Hurricane)
28.
You and your words flooded my senses Your sentences left me defenseless You built me palaces out of paragraphs You built cathedrals - Eliza (Burn)
29.
My name is Philip I am a poet I’m a little nervous, but I can’t show it I’m sorry, I’m a Hamilton with pride You talk about my father, I cannot let it slide - Philip (Blow Us All Away)
30.
Talk less! Smile more! Don't let them know what you're against or what you're for! - Burr (Election of 1800)
31.
I wanna be in the room where it happens - Burr (Your Obedient Servant)
32.
I imagine death so much it feels more like a memory - Hamilton (The World Was Wide Enough)
33.
I hope that you burn - Eliza (Burn)
34.
I'm a diamond in the rough, a shiny piece of coal Tryin' to reach my goal, my power of speech: unimpeachable
- Hamilton (My Shot)
35.
Work! - Schuyler Sisters (The Schuyler Sisters)
36.
You say our love is draining and you can't go on You'll be the one complaining when I am gone - King George (You'll Be Back)
37.
Rise up! - Hamilton, Burr, Mulligan, Laurens, Lafayette (Right Hand Man)
38.
We rise and we fall and we break and we make our mistakes. And if there's a reason I'm still alive when everyone who loves me has died I'm willing to wait for it. - Burr (Wait For it)
39.
I’m a General. Whee!!!! - Lee (Stay Alive)
Did we miss your favorite Hamilton Musical quote? Put it in the comments below...
[post_title] => Top 39 Quotes From Hamilton: An American Musical [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 39-quotes-from-hamilton-musical [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-08-12 09:32:04 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-08-12 13:32:04 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=367777 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 19 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 367921 [post_author] => 1996 [post_date] => 2018-09-26 13:28:27 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-09-26 17:28:27 [post_content] =>cover photo credit Sabi Varga/Boston Ballet
[post_title] => Shows Justin Peck Should Choreograph [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => shows-justin-peck-should-choreograph [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-22 12:29:44 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-22 16:29:44 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=31121 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [7] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 367778 [post_author] => 1996 [post_date] => 2018-09-21 14:21:22 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-09-21 18:21:22 [post_content] => Auna Kemp is back with another funny and accurate look into #theatrekid life. Make sure to follow Auna and subscribe to our Youtube channel for more videos!Here are 20 items all drama teachers should have in their classrooms:
1. Book of Improv Games
via GIPHY If class finishes early, you are stuck for a lesson or are looking for a way to engage students at the start of class, you can’t go wrong with improv games. Amazon offers several choices in books on the subject, or you can purchase sets from educator resource site Teachers Pay Teachers.2. Box of Costumes and Props
Be it an in-class activity or a school production, having costumes and props available is essential. It may take some time to accumulate a decent stash of items, but start by asking friends or family if they have anything they are looking to get rid of or cruise local garage sales. Dollar stores, craft stores and discount stores are great for finding more specialized pieces at low prices and often have coupons or teacher discounts. Or, enlist the help of creative students or staff to make costumes and props.
Never get rid of costumes and props used in a production, unless they’re borrowed, broken or rented. You never know when they could be useful again. Be sure to find plastic bins, crates or even a trunk for storage to keep your collection in good condition.
3. Sharpie Markers
via GIPHY Whether you are labeling tape-marked spots onstage, teacher resources or writing on chart paper, Sharpie markers are multipurpose and always useful. Consider investing in a few mini Sharpie markers that come with keychain clips for easy access.4. Quality Speakers
via GIPHY Teaching a movement class? Showing a film clip? Just listening to music? Poor-quality speakers mean students can’t hear and will either miss a crucial point you’re trying to make or disengage with the lesson. It’s worth doing some research and purchasing a high-quality set of speakers that will last.5. Organizational Storage
via GIPHY Drama classes by nature are more interactive, but that doesn’t mean they have to be disorganized. Avoid chaos and allow your students to have independence by maintaining an organized and structured classroom. Whether it’s bins, shelves, cubbies or carts, the options are extensive. Check out Pinterest for tips and ideas for classroom storage and organization.6. Art Supplies
via GIPHY Allow your students to thrive in inspiring moments and engage in the creative process. Having art supplies on hand gives them the freedom to follow their creativity for an assignment or school production. Speak to your administration about budget for such items before purchasing any on your own.7. Glue Gun and Duct Tape
via GIPHY There’s nothing this pair can’t do.8. Jar of Safety Pins
via GIPHY Basic uses include fitting a costume, but safety pins are also great for fastening items to stage curtains or backdrops or even transforming costume pieces into something completely different with creative pinning.9. Butcher Paper
Drawing, brainstorming and creating backdrops for classroom performances are just a few ways you can use butcher paper. The long rolls of paper are easy to store, economical and more versatile than regular plain paper.
10. LCD Projector or TV
via GIPHY Being able to show video clips and multimedia during your lessons is helpful to keep your students engaged and spark ideas.11. Clipboards
Many drama classrooms opt not to have desks to allow for more space to move around. Clipboards are a great alternative when students need to make notes, write creatively or complete an activity. They also come in handy for productions when you need to organize copies of the script and design notes for members of your backstage and technical crew.
12. Piano or Keyboard
via GIPHY A piano opens more opportunities for your students to be creative and inventive. A budding Sondheim could be among your students, and creating a space that lets them explore the different areas of theatre could be the spark they need. It’s also useful for musical auditions and rehearsals.13. Performance Space
via GIPHY If you are given a regular classroom space, it can be helpful to designate where the “stage” will be. Some teachers create a small platform within their room, while others mark the space with an area rug or colorful duct tape. Remember to review safety regulations within your school before deciding how you will design your space.14. Notice Board
Find wall space to hang a cork board where you can advertise arts opportunities such as audition notices, community theatre groups, theatre performance posts or post-secondary programs. Check with your administration before posting anything from a source outside of the school, as some schools have policies around what can be advertised to the student body.
15. Foam Ball
via GIPHY Tossing a ball back and forth around the classroom is a fun way to call on students and engage them in the lesson or discussion by asking the student holding the foam ball to be the one to speak. It’s also an active way to review terminology by having the students toss the ball while quizzing each other.16. Small Sewing Kit
via GIPHY You never know if there is a budding designer in your midst. Give your students the freedom to explore their imagination and create costume pieces for their performances.17. Overhead Projector
via GIPHY With many schools transitioning to using document cameras and smart boards, overhead projectors are collecting dust somewhere in the school. Rescue them and give them a new lease on life as budget spotlights for performances in class.18. Inspirational Décor
via GIPHY Make your room a haven for creativity. Hang up old playbills, posters of shows and examples of those who have found success in creative careers. Also, artwork with motivational phrases can be the encouragement some students need to engage and move outside of their comfort zones. You can also engage students with fun, decorative items. One of my high school music teachers kept a plastic lawn gnome on his desk that had been given to him by a student as a joke. Students always asked about it when first entering his class, and it eventually became the class mascot.19. Stage Direction Sign
It is surprisingly easy to forget the difference between stage right and stage left when you are also trying to stay in character, read lines, act, sing or dance. Having a reference poster or two for stage directions allows students to reference it independently and saves you from having to repeat the directions numerous times.
20. Buzzer
via GIPHY Presentations and improve games can get chaotic and noisy. Avoid shouting to get their attention and use a buzzer, bell or noisemaker instead. Your voice will thank you. While all of these items are an excellent support for programming, ultimately, the passion for the subject matter is the most important thing to have in every classroom. And luckily, that’s priceless.What items do you think are helpful for drama teachers? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 20 Items All Drama Teachers Need In Their Classrooms [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 20-items-all-drama-teachers-need-in-their-classrooms [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-18 09:41:27 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-18 13:41:27 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=367746 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [9] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 367742 [post_author] => 1978 [post_date] => 2018-09-18 09:16:53 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-09-18 13:16:53 [post_content] =>1. Age range and what directors will look for in character appearance.
School theatre- At a school theatre directors will be a lot looser with the general age of a character. This being on account of the fact that all of the cast will be about the same age. Appearances must and will be altered so don't worry too much if you don't look a whole lot like the character you're auditioning for. Community theatre- At a community theatre the age of a character will have an impact on whether or not you get the role. A community theatre would never cast, say a twelve year old, for a grown man/woman whereas this would be completely acceptable at a school theatre.2. Familiarity between cast members.
School theatre- If you're doing a play at a school theatre chances are you already know everybody, even if it's just by sight. You've seen them often and have a general idea of what to expect from everybody. You probably even know the director as one of your teachers. Community theatre- At a community theatre there's a lot less familiarity between cast members. After you've been doing it for awhile everyone starts to look familiar, but there's still the awkwardness that's bound to happen when you have adults working alongside elementary students. When going into an audition, you also won't have any idea how the director is going to run it so this can put you into unease if you aren't confident.3. The plays they put on.
School theatre- Naturally a school theatre will have plays chosen that are specifically for a certain age range, and the plays they choose will almost certainly be perfectly appropriate. Especially if you're working at a middle school or even elementary school they'll probably put on a popular play that's familiar to almost everyone. Community theatre- Community theatres are for adults to enjoy as well as children, so not all the plays they put on will necessarily fit your age range. Chances are sometimes they'll do a play with only an adult cast, or a play with Old English. Just be prepared for anything, and make sure to look into the play before showing up for auditions. Those are the top three differences between school and community theatre, if there's anything you'd like to add definitely leave a comment! [post_title] => Community Theatre VS School Theatre: What's The Difference Anyway? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => community-theatre-vs-school-theatre-whats-the-difference-anyway [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-18 09:17:11 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-18 13:17:11 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=367742 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [10] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 367643 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2018-09-14 14:13:10 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-09-14 18:13:10 [post_content] => It's that time of year again... the time where we WATCH ALL THE MUSICALS! Although we're continuously starving to have more musicals on Netflix, there have been some noteworthy additions in the recent months. Some qualifications for being a 'Musical' are fuzzy and debatable, so we apologize to the purists out there. *Stage versions will be labeled (Stage) in title. List applies to USSo without further ado, here are all the Netflix Musicals this fall:
1. RENT
In this musical, set in the 90s, New Yorkers struggle with their jobs, love lives and the effects of the AIDS epidemic on their society.
2. Newsies: The Broadway Musical (Stage)
Newsies is based on the 1992 film, which was inspired by the Newsboys Strike of 1899 in New York City. Music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Jack Feldman, and book by Harvey Fierstein.
3. The Phantom of the Opera
'From his hideout beneath a 19th century Paris opera house, the brooding Phantom (Gerard Butler) schemes to get closer to vocalist Christine Daae (Emmy Rossum)'. Source: Wikipedia
4. Mamma Mia!
Donna, an hotelier in the Greek islands, is getting ready for her daughter's wedding with the help of two old friends. Sophie, the bride, crafts a plan. She invites three men from her mother's past in hope of meeting her real father and having him walk her down the aisle on her wedding day.
5. Shrek The Musical (Stage)
The greatest fairy tale never told comes to life in this colorful, song-filled, Tony Award-winning Broadway production based on the hit movie. Starring: Sutton foster and Brian d'Arcy James
6. Beauty and the Beast
Held captive in an enchanted castle where clocks and candlesticks come to life, a brave young woman clashes with a beastly but good-hearted prince.
7. The Last 5 Years
A novelist and his actress wife recall the story of their relationship through music, starting from opposite points in time and meeting in the middle.
8. Moana
A Polynesian girl destined to be her island's chief makes a perilous trip with a boastful demigod to undo his mistake and save her people.
9. Emo the Musical
We all new this was coming right? Expelled from private school for attempted suicide, emo Ethan enters the world of Seymour High and meets a cute Christian who's ready to convert him.
10. High School Musical 3
A group of seniors who are having a hard time leaving high school behind stage a musical expressing their hopes and fears about the future.
11. Opening Night
Once a rising star on Broadway, Nick is now the perennially pestered production manager for a new musical dedicated to rock music's one-hit wonders.
12. Mulan
Disney brings an ancient legend to life in this animated tale of a tomboy who disguises herself as a man so she can fight with the Chinese Army.
13. Trolls
When their fellow Trolls are captured by hungry Bergens, upbeat Princess Poppy and her grouchy pal Branch embark on the adventure of a lifetime.
14. Hercules
The heavenly Hercules is stripped of his immortality and raised on Earth instead of Olympus, where he's forced to take on Hades and assorted monsters.
15. Country Crush
A city girl falls for a country boy who follows her to New York, but their romance may be over when she must choose between love and a music career.
16. The Prince of Egypt
Born into slavery but raised as the son of a pharaoh, Moses accepts his destiny: to lead the Hebrews out of slavery and into freedom.
17. White Christmas
Two war buddies fall for two sisters and follow the girls to a resort owned by their former commanding officer, who is in danger of losing the place.
18. Pocahontas
A young American Indian girl tries to follow her heart and protect her tribe when settlers arrive and threaten the land she loves.
19. Cherry Pop
When the headliner at a drag bar refuses to perform, a young newcomer makes his debut while backstabbing queens fling insults behind the curtain.
20. Jack and the Cuckoo-Clock Heart
Equipped with a mechanical heart and determined to stay out of death's shadow, young Jack understands that love could prove fatal.
21. Holy Camp
In this musical comedy, two rebellious teen girls who love electronic music have a life-changing brush with the divine at a camp run by nuns.
22. Joseph: King of Dreams
With his gift of dream interpretation and his brilliantly colored coat, Joseph inspires jealousy in his brothers in this animated Bible story.
23. A Star Is Born (1976)
In this recut personally supervised by Barbra Streisand, a gifted songbird's marriage to an aging rocker falls apart as her star rises and his falls.
24. Beat Bugs: All Together Now
After winning a local talent show, the Beat Bugs journey to compete on "The Bug Factor," a televised singing contest held in faraway Rocket Ship Park.
What musicals do you want on Netflix? Leave a reply below...
Many musical descriptions are credited to Netflix [post_title] => All The Musicals On Netflix This Fall (2018) [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => all-musicals-netflix-fall-2018 [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-14 14:40:03 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-14 18:40:03 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=367643 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 34 [filter] => raw ) [11] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 367515 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2018-09-12 10:00:18 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-09-12 14:00:18 [post_content] => Tony nominated Paul Gordon has turned Jane Austen's 'Emma' into a musical! You can even enter to win a free stream of it HERE Take the quiz to find out which character you identify with most... [viralQuiz id=84]
https://www.facebook.com/theatrenerds/videos/866196050434629/
[post_title] => Quiz: Which Character From Jane Austen's 'Emma' Are You?
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => quiz-which-character-from-jane-austens-emma-are-you
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2018-09-12 10:01:01
[post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-12 14:01:01
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=367515
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 0
[filter] => raw
)
[12] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 367604
[post_author] => 391
[post_date] => 2018-09-11 10:13:08
[post_date_gmt] => 2018-09-11 14:13:08
[post_content] => If you’ve ever seen or heard a Golden Age musical or watched its film adaptation, you’ve probably heard its “entr’acte,” or second-act prelude. Entr’actes are mostly associated with operas and older Broadway musicals, but they did continue to appear in 1980s pop-operas such as “Phantom of the Opera” and “Miss Saigon.”
Although they are not as common in contemporary musical theatre, we’ve compiled 15 of our favorite entr’actes since 1992 below:
1. ‘Beauty and the Beast’ (1994)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwlZBdhQ8EU During this sequence, the Beast risks his life to save Belle from a pack of wolves.2. ‘Ragtime’ (1998)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k4-Xc-X5VaY At the start of Act II, the boy Edgar has a dream about Houdini attempting to escape from a box covered in dynamite.3. ‘The Hunchback of Notre-Dame’ (1999/2014)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aS5bZVg1rnw This fantastic Act II opener features text from the Latin Requiem Mass.4. ‘Matilda’ (2011)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lxrn95bn34Q Matilda's entr'acte from the original Royal Shakespeare production was significantly cut for the Broadway production.5. ‘Bright Star’ (2016)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fu9UKVmrEsk Aspiring editor Alice Murphy is gearing up to study in Chapel Hill while longing for her son.6. ‘Mamma Mia!’ (1999)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFtD8jTv0g4 Sophie's nightmare about her three possible fathers fighting over who will walk her down the aisle leaves her anxious.7. ‘The Scarlet Pimpernel’ (1997)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ioaJdchl07Y This instrumental medley of Act I melodies precedes the Act II events at the Prince of Wales' ball.8. ‘Honeymoon in Vegas’ (2015)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovs44U1SdTM After Betsy (Jack's girlfriend) agrees to leave with Tommy for Hawaii, Jack follows them there attempting to win back Betsy.9. ‘Mary Poppins’ (2004)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBXGi2FueG8 Before the curtain rises on Act II, the orchestra treats the audience to a brief reprisal of "Jolly Holiday."10. ‘Ruthless!’ (1992)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoMzDj6nVeg After Tina is revealed as Louise's murderer, she is sent away while Tina's mother Judy becomes a Broadway star.11. ‘Thoroughly Modern Millie’ (2002)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zePFmXFEMQ Millie and her fellow stenographers dance their way to work while she tries to get over her fallout with Jimmy.12. ‘Titanic’ (1997)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3uX83IfDG7E The orchestral interlude is the final calm before the doomed ship's sinking.13. ‘Steel Pier’ (1997)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhNZURYsduE This jazzy prelude sets the mood leading up to Bill and Rita's mock wedding.14. ‘Sunset Boulevard’ (1993)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oyPTCVF98nY This lush prelude juxtaposes the glamour of Hollywood with the seductive nature of "Salome," the screenplay-within-the-musical.15. ‘Seussical’ (2000)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfsh3sNc6E4 After Horton is abducted by hunters, the Cat in the Hat conducts the orchestra into Act II.Let us know your favorite entr'acte in the comments below...
[post_title] => 15 Great Contemporary Entr’actes You Should Listen To [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 15-great-contemporary-entractes-you-should-listen-to [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-11 10:13:08 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-11 14:13:08 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=367604 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [13] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 367557 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2018-09-06 12:17:38 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-09-06 16:17:38 [post_content] => Calling all tenors! We've put together a list of audition songs that are underrated and aren't performed as often in the audition room. This can help you bring something fresh to the casting director and make you stick out from the crowd.Here are 53 great audition songs for tenors:
1. One Track Mind from Sweet Smell of Success
Range : E4-A5
Style : Uptempo Swing (Contemporary)
Mood : Showstopper, Flamboyant
MORE DETAILS2. Love To Me from The Light In the Piazza
Range : D4-F#5
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Romantic, Passionate, Re-assuring
MORE DETAILS3. Beethoven Day from You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown
Range : D4-Ab5
Style : Uptempo (Contemporary)
Mood : Soulful, Energetic, Charismatic
MORE DETAILS4. Saturn Returns from Myths and Hymns
Range : C3-Bb4
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Soulful, Tragic, Heartbroken
MORE DETAILS5. Many Moons Ago from Once Upon A Mattress
Range : D3-G#4
Style : Ballad (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Story-Telling, Inviting
MORE DETAILS6. One More Beautiful Song from A Class Act
Range : C4-F5
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Inspired, Futuristic, Intimate
MORE DETAILS7. She Was There from The Scarlet Pimpernel
Range : C#4-G#5
Style : Ballad (Pop Opera)
Mood : Romantic, Nostalgic, Introspective
MORE DETAILS8.Where In the World from The Secret Garden
Range : F4-Ab5
Style : Uptempo (Pop Opera)
Mood : Anxious, Desperate, Afraid
MORE DETAILS9. Prayer of the Comfort Counselor from The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Range : E4-B5
Style : Uptempo (Contemporary)
Mood : Soulful, Encouraging, Rousing
MORE DETAILS10. Into The Fire from The Scarlet Pimpernel
Vocal Part : Tenor
Range : D4-Ab5
Style : Uptempo (Pop Opera)
MORE DETAILS11. Fifty Million Years Ago from Celebration
Vocal Part : Tenor
Range : Eb3-F4
Style : Uptempo
MORE DETAILS12. The Games I Play Ago from Falsettos
Range : B3-G5
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Romantic, Regretful, Introspective
MORE DETAILS13. Buffalo Nickel Photoplay Inc. from Ragtime
Range : B3-F#5
Style : Uptempo (Contemporary)
Mood : Enthusiastic, Comedic
MORE DETAILS14. I’m Martin Guerre from Martin Guerre
Range : D4-A5
Style : Uptempo (Pop Opera)
Mood : Vengeful, Intimidating, Plotting
MORE DETAILS15. Race You to the Top of the Morning from The Secret Garden
Range : Db4-Ab5
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Story-telling, Fatherly, Dramatic
MORE DETAILS16. Quasimodo from When Pigs Fly
Range : D3-A4
Style : Uptempo Swing (Contemporary)
Mood : Flirtacious, Romantic, Flamboyant
MORE DETAILS17. When I’m Not Near the Girl I Love from Finian's Rainbow
Range : B3-D5
Style : Midtempo Waltz (Golden Age)
Mood : Comedic, Romantic
MORE DETAILS18. The Mason from Working
Range : B3-G5
Style : Ballad (Soft Rock)
Mood : Inspirational, Uplifting, Futuristic
MORE DETAILS19. Heaven on Their Minds from Jesus Christ Superstar
Range : D4-C6
Style : Uptempo Rock
Mood : Menacing, Critical, Desperate
MORE DETAILS20. How Glory Goes from Floyd Collins
Range : Bb3-G5
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Introspective, Nostalgic, Bittersweet
MORE DETAILS21. The Flower Garden of My Heart from Pal Joey
Range : Eb4-G5
Style : Midtempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Light-hearted, Carefree
MORE DETAILS22. Drift Away from Grey Gardens
Range : D4-F5
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Jazzy, Nostalgic, Romantic
MORE DETAILS23. What Is It About Her? from The Wild Party
Range : C4-Ab5
Style : Midtempo (Contemporary)
Mood : Passionate, slight Latin rhythm, Seductive
MORE DETAILS24. Enjoy The Trip from Bring It On: The Musical
Range : C4-Ab5
Style : Midtempo (Contemporary)
Mood : Nostalgic, Romantic, Intimate
MORE DETAILS25. Stranger from Big Fish
Range : C4-G5
Style : Uptempo (Contemporary)
Mood : Uplifting, Inspirational, Futuristic
MORE DETAILS26. Her Voice from The Little Mermaid
Range : D4-F#5
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Disney, Romantic, In Awe
MORE DETAILS27. No Moon from Titanic
Range : E4-G5
Style : Midtempo Waltz (Pop Opera)
Mood : Romantic, Serene
MORE DETAILS28. The Proposal/The Night Was Alive from Titanic
Range : E4-E5, C4-G5
Style : Ballad (Pop Opera)
Mood : Romantic, Hopeful, Nostalgic
MORE DETAILS29. I Never Knew from Far From Heaven
Range : C#4-G#5
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Jazzy, Confessional, Coming Clean
MORE DETAILS30. The Streets of Dublin from A Man of No Importance
Range : E4-A5
Style : Uptempo (Contemporary)
Mood : Cheerful, Observant, In Awe
MORE DETAILS31. Let It Sing from Violet
Range : D4-Eb5
Style : Uptempo (Contemporary)
Mood : Racially Specific, Retro, Inspirational
MORE DETAILS32. I'd Rather Be Sailing from A New Brain
Range : A3-Gb5
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Inspirational, Hopeful, Futuristic
MORE DETAILS33. I Chose Right from Baby
Range : Bb3-Eb5
Style : Midtempo (Soft Rock)
Mood : Romantic, Youthful, Intimate
MORE DETAILS34. A Man Could Go Quite Mad from The Mystery of Edwin Drood
Range : A3-G5
Style : Uptempo (Pop Opera)
Mood : Fascinated, Scary, Villainous
MORE DETAILS35. I Will Follow You from Milk and Honey
Range : D4-Bb5
Style : Ballad (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Passionate
MORE DETAILS36. The Thought of You from Fanny
Range : E3-A4
Style : Midtempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Passionate, Driving
MORE DETAILS37. Fanny from Fanny
Range : Bb3-Eb5
Style : Ballad (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Passionate
MORE DETAILS38. You Walk With Me from The Full Monty
Range : B3-B5
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Romantic, Intimate
MORE DETAILS39. I Am In Love from Can-Can
Range : C4-F5
Style : Midtempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Light-hearted, Carefree
MORE DETAILS40. Come With Me from The Boys From Syracuse
Range : B2-F#4
Style : Uptempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Lighthearted, Inviting
MORE DETAILS41. You Are Never Away from Allegro
Range : B3-G5
Style : Uptempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Lighthearted
MORE DETAILS42. Awaiting You from Myths and Hymns
Range : G3-F5
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Contemplative, Soulful, Introspective
MORE DETAILS43. The Day After That from Kiss of the Spider Woman
Range : D4-A5
Style : Midtempo
Mood : Majestic, Troubled, yet Hopeful
MORE DETAILS44. Alive from Jekyll and Hyde
Range : D4-E5
Style : Uptempo (Pop Opera)
Mood : Fascinated, Scary, Villainous
MORE DETAILS45. I’ll Be There from The Pirate Queen
Range : C4-A5
Style : Ballad (Pop Opera)
Mood : Romantic, Hopeful, Passionate, Jealous
MORE DETAILS46. All Good Gifts from Godspell
Range : D4-A5
Style : Ballad (Soft Rock)
Mood : Inspirational, Uplifting
MORE DETAILS47. Love Can’t Happen from Grand Hotel
Range : D#4-A5
Style : Midtempo
Mood : Romantic, Passionate
MORE DETAILS48. Fortune Favors the Brave from Aida
Range : Bb3-G5
Style : Uptempo (Contemporary Rock)
Mood : Triumphant, Powerful
MORE DETAILS49. Oh, Is There Not One Maiden Breast? from The Pirates of Penzance
Range : G3-Gb4 (optional Bb4)
Style : Ballad (Operetta)
Mood : Romantic, Desperate, Lonesome
MORE DETAILS50. 30/90 from Tick, Tick…Boom!
Range : E3-A5
Style : Uptempo (Contemporary Rock)
Mood : Hopeful yet Anxious
MORE DETAILS51. My Girlfriend Who Lives in Canada from Avenue Q
Range : Range: B2–G4
Style : Uptempo
Mood : Comedic
52. I Am Aldolpho from The Drowsy Chaperone
Range : Range: E2 (optional)–A4
Style : Midtempo
Mood : Comedic
53. I Don’t Understand the Poor from A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder
Range : Range: B2–G4
Style : Midtempo
Mood : Comedic
You May Like: 16 Underrated Contemporary Tenor Roles
Have one we missed? Leave your favorite tenor audition song in the comments below...
[post_title] => 53 Refreshing Audition Songs For Tenors [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 53-refreshing-audition-songs-for-tenors [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/come-with-me/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/enjoy-the-trip/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/oh-not-one-maiden-breast/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/awaiting-you/ [post_modified] => 2018-10-17 01:28:59 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-10-17 05:28:59 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=367557 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [14] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 367085 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2018-09-05 08:42:52 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-09-05 12:42:52 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=83] [post_title] => Can You Score Purrr-fectly On This 'Cats' Lyric Quiz? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => can-you-score-purrr-fectly-on-this-cats-lyric-quiz [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-05 08:42:52 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-05 12:42:52 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=367085 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [15] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 367522 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2018-09-02 21:43:23 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-09-03 01:43:23 [post_content] => “Why? Why? Why NOTTTTTTTT!!!!!” Aside from cat videos and prank videos, YouTube is an incredible tool for entertainers in the musical theatre field. YouTubers such as Thomas Sanders, Jon Cozart and Malinda Kathleen Reese have made huge names for themselves among musical theatre fans for their hilarious covers and medleys. As for the up-and-coming scene of Broadway-loving YouTubers, one is already making a name for himself with his candid personality and wicked talents. Here are 12 reasons why theatre nerds need to know about Kevin Lynch:1. His ‘Musical Monday’ Series Is Wildly Entertaining
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHugF53t28U Every Monday, Lynch posts a video of himself singing and playing either an original song or a selection from a musical or movie. His performances are often ambitious, sometimes lasting well over 10 minutes.2. His Live Reaction Videos Are the Best
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbQmfKJYzDM Lynch also records a series of live reactions while listening to contemporary cast albums and performances gone wrong.3. His Piano Skills Are Outstanding
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcfU3jiJAw0 Lynch is a music graduate of William Paterson University and used to be a staff accompanist at Juilliard. He has also recorded videos playing works by Mozart and Chopin.4. He Spotlights Lesser-Known Shows
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38xCnjrfFwQ Lynch sure does his research by mentioning and praising shows with niche cult followings, such as “Bare” and “Glory Days.”5. He’s Hilariously Blunt
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8p66fR8Aw7U Lynch is an outspoken critic of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music and isn’t afraid to toss a few jabs at musicals such as “Starlight Express” and “Cats.”6. He’s a Master Parodist
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VaGEz3GG1yc Formerly his most popular video, “Worst Musical Theatre Song Ever Written for Auditions” pokes fun at all of contemporary musical theatre’s most notorious cliches.7. He Thoroughly Explains Music Theory in Broadway Shows
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9CwRZfbqLmM Lynch uses his music major background to explain common, effective musical trends found in shows such as “Next to Normal” and “Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812.”8. He’s Writing His Own Musical
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfK-RZSlNgA Lynch is currently writing “Abstinence: The Musical” and has premiered the opening number for his YouTube audience.9. He Sells His Original Pieces Online
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-u9nHhQm2sM In addition to having an album of original music, Lynch sells sheet music for his original pieces on his website. Recordings can be found on Spotify and iTunes.10. He Has Helpful Lifestyle Advice
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1NY6-oCQHY Lynch has made several videos about his enormous weight loss and how he’s maintained his health over the years.11. He Does Clever Arrangements of Pop Songs
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AOfn-AWu0o8 Lynch’s pop covers include a mashup of Mariah Carey and Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, as well as a mashup of “Hello” by Adele and “Let It Go” from “Frozen.”12. He’s Transparent About His Personal Life
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DyQRZ0lP9KE Lynch is open about having ADD and how to cope with it and use it to his advantage.Why do you love Kevin Lynch? Which one of his videos is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
[post_title] => Why Theatre Nerds Need To Know About Kevin Lynch [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => why-theatre-nerds-need-to-know-about-kevin-lynch [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-21 14:23:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-21 18:23:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=367522 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [16] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 366372 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2018-09-02 10:52:45 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-09-02 14:52:45 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=79] [post_title] => Create A Showtune Playlist And We'll Tell You Which 'Mamma Mia!' Character You Are [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => create-a-showtune-playlist-and-well-tell-you-which-mamma-mia-character-you-are [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-02 10:53:03 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-02 14:53:03 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=366372 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [17] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 366730 [post_author] => 1922 [post_date] => 2018-09-02 10:47:58 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-09-02 14:47:58 [post_content] => In my opinion, no particular order. Upvote your favorites. Comment what I forgot! [post_title] => Top 15 Best Broadway Musicals [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => top-15-best-broadway-musicals [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-02 10:47:58 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-02 14:47:58 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=366730 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [18] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 367426 [post_author] => 1840 [post_date] => 2018-08-31 11:02:09 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-08-31 15:02:09 [post_content] => It’s no secret that stage managers quite literally run the show in the theatre world—and behind every great stage manager is an amazing assistant stage manager. However, whether you’re a rookie or veteran assistant stage manager, it can be tough to take on this job. Here are a few tips that can make it easier for you and everyone else in the cast and crew:1. Always Get to Rehearsal Early
This can be difficult when you have a crazy schedule, but it’s very important to show up early to rehearsals. You need time to get everything set up and ready so that you’re not in a rush when everyone else gets there. If you forget something or feel unprepared, you’ll feel stressed, and that will put more stress on your stage manager run crew and cast.
2. Teach Your Crew to Work Together
While you may not be able to get your crew to love each other, you can get them to work well together by arming them with all the knowledge they need to get through the show successfully. Before each show, go to each crew member and make sure they know their cues, scene changes and all other duties. Ensure everyone has their cue sheets and always have an extra one on hand, to be safe—someone will inevitably forget theirs.
You should also have everyone run their scene changes before the show starts and keep a checklist for yourself so you know you’ve accomplished all your tasks. Your stage manager can also weigh in on whether there’s anything else that needs to be taken care of.
3. Stay Organized
It’s very important to stay organized and keep up with all rehearsal and show reports. You don’t have to print them out the way that a stage manager does, but it’s a good practice to keep them in a file on your computer in case your stage manager forgets one and you need to help him or her out. You should also keep an eye on the stage manager kit to make sure everything is fully stocked and in its place. It’s a nice way to stay organized and keep from running out of anything you might need.
4. Bring Snacks
You don’t have to do this all the time, but it can help the cast and crew’s morale if you bring in snacks such as fruit, cookies or candy every once in a while. Technicians especially tend to skip meals during tech week, so it helps to bring in something small for them. And even if you don’t bring enough for everyone, be sure to always have a snack in your bag in case of an emergency.
Being on a show crow can be stressful, but if you do these small things, it will help take some of the stress off of you and the rest of your crew.
Any tips for assistant stage managers? Post them in the comments below!
[post_title] => Tips For Being The Best Assistant Stage Manager You Can Be [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => tips-for-being-the-best-assistant-stage-manager-you-can-be [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-08-31 11:02:09 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-08-31 15:02:09 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=367426 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [19] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 366478 [post_author] => 1294 [post_date] => 2018-08-28 21:44:05 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-08-29 01:44:05 [post_content] => Inspired by conversations that happen in real life, vote for the best Showtunes in these select cast albums! [post_title] => Poll: What Are The Best Songs In These Cast Albums? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => poll-what-are-the-best-songs-in-these-cast-albums [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-08-31 11:05:26 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-08-31 15:05:26 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_poll&p=366478 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_poll [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [20] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 366398 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2018-08-27 09:26:28 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-08-27 13:26:28 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=80]Try Another Quiz: Which Showtune Should You Sing With Your BFF?
[post_title] => Quiz: Build An Ice Cream Sundae To Reveal Which Movie Musical You Should Watch [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-build-an-ice-cream-sundae-to-reveal-which-movie-musical-you-should-watch [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-29 12:13:36 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-29 16:13:36 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=366398 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 5 [filter] => raw ) [21] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 367130 [post_author] => 819 [post_date] => 2018-08-23 15:49:16 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-08-23 19:49:16 [post_content] =>Dear TheatreNerds Community,
I really appreciated Katelynn Johnson’s recent article, “A Call For More Film Recordings of Broadway Shows”. In point of fact, it’s something I’ve been working on with my partners for the last two years. It's something I’m very passionate about. I absolutely believe that my partners and I are on the verge of discovering a new way to watch and develop musicals. I come at this perspective as both a writer of musicals and also as a consumer. And this new idea appeals to me on both levels. As someone who’s been lucky enough to work on Broadway and in some of the best regional theaters in the country, I am extremely grateful for live theatre. I’m grateful for the actors, the artists and the musicians I’ve worked with over the years who have put so much love and labor into their art. But I’ve also seen our work essentially disappear when a show is over and I’ve seen artists struggle. Not to mention, the cost of developing new work for artists like me, and others, can be challenging. But in 2015, when Ken Davenport innovatively decided to live-stream my Off-Broadway musical, DADDY LONG LEGS, (co-written and directed by John Caird) the show received 150,000 streams from 65 different countries around the world in one night; A show without stars and barely any title recognition. I knew that night that what I watched was the future. My dream of the future essentially came true this past February. My new company filmed my musical, EMMA, at the Westside Theatre in New York. Not as a live musical; not as a film; but, as a hybrid between the two. Something new. Live singing. No audience. We had a crew that used 3HD cameras that can go anywhere, a film director and a stage director. This is the first original stage musical created to be streamed worldwide. And the fact that I will be able to share this with you – wherever you are in the world – is absolutely thrilling to me. We are going to be an equitable company and one of the main elements about this new model that’s so important to me is the profit-sharing aspect. Because, even though Daddy Long Legs was free, that's not how we keep moving more musicals into the world. But for a price as low as a latte, all the artists – directors, writers, designers, actors, musicians on EMMA –share in the profits, forever. It also allows us to keep production costs low but production value high. So a show that might have run 3 weeks in a regional market and never appear again, can now run forever all over the world. With the intent of launching live productions for theaters anywhere, this is a win/win for everyone. Like Katelynn in her article, I grew up with the desire to put live theatre in my pocket and take it out later at home and watch it again and again. (I TiVo’d LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA Live at Lincoln Center and watched it 11 times. Then the machine broke. Crap. I’ll never see that production again). My hope is that EMMA is just the first step into the future of streaming musicals. And we need you to be our eyes and ears. You are going to be so helpful in this process and we can’t wait for you to tell us what you think. It’s like a workshop for exciting things to come and you’re a huge part of that. Thanks for supporting musicals. And nerds who like musicals. And just TheatreNerds in general. ~Paul Gordon
https://www.facebook.com/theatrenerds/videos/866196050434629/
[post_title] => Streaming Musicals: A Letter To Theatre Nerds From Paul Gordon
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => streaming-musicals-a-letter-to-theatre-nerds-from-paul-gordon
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2018-08-24 13:28:43
[post_modified_gmt] => 2018-08-24 17:28:43
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=367130
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 1
[filter] => raw
)
[22] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 366731
[post_author] => 1840
[post_date] => 2018-08-14 21:10:31
[post_date_gmt] => 2018-08-15 01:10:31
[post_content] => From drama club, to college, to professional theatre, I have done a lot of shows in my time as a technician. So, I have compiled a list of plays and musicals that I have worked on that I know other theatre nerds will love. Whether you’ve never heard of these or love them as much as I do, here are some great shows to check out:
1. ‘Duck Hunter Shoots Angel,’ by Mitch Albom
This play is quirky, beautiful and hilarious, with a touch of sadness. It follows the story of a tabloid writer named Sandy to his old home in southern Alabama as he writes a story about Duane and Duwell Ealy, who have supposedly killed an angel while hunting ducks. The story shows bits and pieces of the past Sandy left behind.
2. ‘The Mountaintop’ by Katori Hall
This show is a fictional telling of the night before Martin Luther King Jr. was killed. Katori Hall did an amazing job writing such a powerful and emotional show. It’s hard to even find the words to describe how beautiful this show is, but when you go see it, be ready to laugh, cry and be completely astonished by everything that plays out.
3. ‘She Kills Monsters’ by Qui Nguyen
This show follows the story of Agnes, whose younger sister, Tilly, has been killed in a car wreck. In looking through some of Tilly’s possessions, Agnes finds her “Dungeons and Dragons” notebook and gets to know her sister for the first time as she reads through a quest Tilly wrote. There are so many great effects in this show, with monsters galore and lots of fight scenes.
4. ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’ by Bob Martin and Don McKellar
This silly, fun musical is a show within a show. The Man in the Chair tells the story of his favorite musical, “The Drowsy Chaperone,” to the audience, and the show plays out onstage as he plays the music and tells stories about the original cast.
5. ‘Metamorphoses’ by Mary Zimmerman
Not to be confused with the story about a man turning into a bug, this play follows wonderfully told stories in Greek myths and legends. The stories are told in short vignettes, and yes, there is a full swimming pool onstage in most productions, which makes for some amazing scenes.
Any suggestions on great shows for theatre nerds? Post them in the comments below...
[post_title] => 5 Lesser Known Shows Theatre Nerds Will Love [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 5-lesser-known-shows-theatre-nerds-will-love [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-08-14 21:12:01 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-08-15 01:12:01 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=366731 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [23] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 366602 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2018-08-13 21:36:26 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-08-14 01:36:26 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=82] [post_title] => Quiz: Can You Guess The Production From The Name Of Its Character? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-can-you-guess-the-production-from-the-name-of-its-character [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-08-14 14:27:26 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-08-14 18:27:26 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=366602 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [24] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 366399 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2018-08-10 09:33:53 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-08-10 13:33:53 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=81] [post_title] => Lyric Quiz: How Obsessed With 'Mamma Mia! 2' Are You Really? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => lyric-quiz-how-obsessed-with-mamma-mia-2-are-you-really [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-08-10 09:33:53 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-08-10 13:33:53 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=366399 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [25] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 366415 [post_author] => 1790 [post_date] => 2018-08-08 15:08:42 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-08-08 19:08:42 [post_content] => Was Justin innocent? Did the cousins have anything to do with him being busted? What did Naomi mean when she said, "We aren't done," in "The Money?" Was Naomi actually doing her job and doing it right? [post_title] => Poll: 21 Chump Street Opinions [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => 21-chump-street-opinions [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-08-24 23:26:57 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-08-25 03:26:57 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_poll&p=366415 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_poll [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [26] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 366422 [post_author] => 1280 [post_date] => 2018-08-07 10:42:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-08-07 14:42:13 [post_content] => You can ask the internet almost anything these days, especially for advice. I remember being so nervous about college that I googled as many tips as I could about how to succeed in a new place with new teachers and a new lifestyle in hopes that I could get an upper hand. If this sounds like you and you’re an incoming theatre performance major, this article is the stop you’ve been looking for on your long journey down the rabbit hole of informational blog posts. Here are some things that can help make your transition easier based on my personal experience. This article covers essential items to have, what to expect and my No. 1 tip for success.Essential Items
There will be plenty of things left out of this list, but these are things you may not have considered as fundamentals:1. Audition Kit
This is a simple tote bag with the things that help ground you during an audition, such as your favorite non-perishable snack, a water bottle, headphones and antiperspirant. It will come in handy if your program auditions multiple shows in a short amount of time.2. An Updated Resume
This is very important! A resume may be a professor’s first impression of you if you audition for them before you have class with them. It’s always nice to have someone want to work with you just from seeing your professionalism. They are more likely to treat you like a professional in the future.3. Some Headshots
The photos themselves don’t have to be Vogue-worthy — they can even be taken on one of the newer smartphones with a good camera. What’s important is that they are printed on photo paper, 8’x10’, in high-quality paper instead of printer paper. If you can save up to print them in bulk, it will save you time later. Just make sure you look the same in your photo as you will when you walk into the audition room. College is a learning environment, but it’s better to have a fair-quality headshot while you’re experimenting with your look than an old headshot that no longer suits you.4. A Few Journals
Something I’ve found helpful is having a journal to keep all the things that have affected me the most in one place. One of the fundamental differences between college and high school is the change in how information is given and how long you hold onto it. The tips you learn from your professors will go far into your career. Investing in a nice journal and pens — or perhaps scrapbooking gear and a binder — will ensure you can keep your thoughts and best tips organized when you’re in the real world and need them most.5. A Water Bottle
Imagine using your voice, body and mind to the extreme for the majority of your day. Staying hydrated will change your experience and make a lot of things a lot easier.6. Socks
There are many reasons to own socks, but performance majors tend to have an unusual number of classes that require no shoes. Cute patterns are always better than smelly feet.7. Workout Clothes
An essential part of learning in this major is learning how to sweat. Having clothes that you feel confident wearing and are comfortable moving in will make scene work, movement and more physically intense classes smoother and more rewarding.8. Nicer Clothes
You can’t forget to also have clothes that are nicer than your day clothes. These will be used mainly in auditions, scenes and certain classes that work on period pieces. Some period classes may require a sportech jacket or corset and floor-length skirt. This depends on the teacher or program, but they are nice to have for rehearsal if you know your costume will require those pieces anyway.What to Expect
Like any other college major, there will be a fair amount of difference based on the program. That’s why it’s important to do your research for the program you’re going into. It’s nice to not be completely blindsided, but also leave some avenues open for surprises. The school’s website is always a great place to start. After you pop onto the website and do some clinical research, get personal. See which professors you can email, make a friend in the major who has been there for a while or go see a show the school is putting up. This way, you can see behind the scenes, which will make the transition even smoother. Overall, it’s comforting to remember that one of the most memorable things about your first year will be learning how well you can adapt to a new environment, schedule and stasis, even when you weren’t sure you could.
No. 1 Tip for Success
There are a million things that may or may not help you succeed, but often students aren’t told the one thing that is a surefire way to encourage success: If you never fail, you’ll never learn anything. Sure, it’s important to make good choices as a student, but you can also take failure as an offer for future success. The point of pursuing higher education is to emerge from it knowing something you didn’t know about your passion. It’s OK to make a mistake if you learn from it. Enjoy each moment, because the ride goes faster than you think. If you allow yourself to fall on your face and surprise yourself, you’ll be all the better for it.
What tips would you give your freshman self? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => Back-To-School Guide For Incoming Acting Majors [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => back-to-school-guide-for-incoming-acting-majors [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-08-07 10:42:13 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-08-07 14:42:13 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=366422 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [27] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 366349 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2018-08-03 09:30:28 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-08-03 13:30:28 [post_content] => Like others before me, I am fortunate to be able to say that theatre was part of my upbringing. When I was quite young, my parents used to pile us all into the family van and drive to visit our family members in other parts of the country. They would pop in the cassette tape soundtracks of “Phantom of the Opera” or “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” and my sister and I would sing our hearts out in the backseat (my younger brother grew up and eventually jointed in, although he will never publicly admit it).
Our great aunt lived in a small town in eastern Canada, and we spent several of our summers visiting her. The small collection of locals all knew us by name, and the downtown core consisted of a general store, two restaurants, a one-room library, the church and a gas station/video store. Yes, my friends, these were the days of video stores. Thanks to that store, I was introduced to Rodgers and Hammerstein classics collection and my world was never the same. Those summer nights were spent watching Julie Andrews spin through the hills of Austria, Mitzi Gaynor dance across a tropical island and Deborah Kerr waltz through Siam. I desperately wanted more.
In the small town I grew up in, “theatre” was a foreign word. If you wanted to see a show, you had to drive to Toronto or fly to New York. My parents did their best to take us to see musicals that came up to Toronto on tour, and it was from those experiences I realized that I needed to be a part of the theatre world. As a nerdy child, I struggled to find where I fit, and watching those productions made me feel less like an outcast.
It wasn’t until I started teaching theatre and music that I realized how few young people have access to life theatre. A touring production of “Memphis” came through Toronto, and I picked up a DVD recording of the show at the merch booth at intermission. I showed clips of it to a class of students the following week. It was so quiet in the room that you could have heard a pin drop. They loved the musical so much that I spent the next two weeks listening to them hum it to themselves. I got similar results when I showed the “Hamilton” cast’s performance of “Alexander Hamilton” from the Grammy Awards. Hands went up, and the kids asked where they could see more of that.
via GIPHY
But even matinee student tickets to a show cost more than many young people and their families can afford. That leaves recordings, which are the closest thing to a live performance some can get so that even kids in small, rural towns can be transported to Broadway and beyond.
In an interview on Late Night With Seth Meyers, actor Andrew Rannells recalled that he discovered Broadway as a kid in Nebraska through filmed broadcasts of Broadway shows. The actor recently starred in a revival of “Falsettos” that aired on “Live from Lincoln Centre” on PBS back in October. Like Rannells, having access to recordings of Broadway shows opens the arts up to everyone, in all parts of the world, regardless of age or socioeconomic status.
Television is doing its part by staging live musical versions of popular hits such as “Grease,” “Hairspray” and the upcoming “Rent.” But what about shows with less of a cult following or recent hits such as “Dear Evan Hansen?”
There needs to be an investment in making Broadway more accessible to the public, or future Audra McDonalds or Lin-Manuel Mirandas may slip through the cracks, never knowing theatre is within the realm of possibility.
Access to the dramatic arts allows young people to enter another world that they might not otherwise know. It gives a voice and perspective to those whose stories go unheard or misunderstood. For young people who are forming their view of the world and themselves, the exposure to a new way of thinking could be the turning point. This is especially true if they are struggling to see themselves and where they belong — because everyone belongs in the theatre. In the theatre, we are heard, and we are not alone.
Do you think there should be more recordings of Broadway shows? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => A Call For More Film Recordings Of Broadway Shows [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => a-call-for-more-film-recordings-of-broadway-shows [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-08-03 09:34:59 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-08-03 13:34:59 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=366349 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 6 [filter] => raw ) [28] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 364343 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2018-08-01 09:41:06 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-08-01 13:41:06 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=77] [post_title] => Quiz: Plan A Summer Vacation And We'll Tell You Which Theatre City To Visit [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-plan-a-summer-vacation-and-well-tell-you-which-theatre-city-to-visit [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-08-01 09:41:06 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-08-01 13:41:06 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=364343 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [29] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 366260 [post_author] => 1840 [post_date] => 2018-07-31 09:23:24 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-07-31 13:23:24 [post_content] => I’m a professional scenic carpenter. I chose this profession while I was in college, and I love what I do, but this position doesn’t exactly get a lot of attention in the theatre world. In fact, I’ve had so many people ask me what a scenic carpenter even is, so today I’m going to give the answers to the most common questions I get about what I do:1. What Is a Scenic Carpenter?
Well, that is fairly simple. It’s a person who builds the sets for shows. We are given construction drawings from the technical director, and we build whatever needs to be built. You need a bunch of 22x7-foot walls? We build those walls exactly to the specifications of the set designer and technical director.
2. What Types of Skills Do You Have as a Scenic Carpenter?
I have many different skills. I am very skilled at woodworking and can build pretty much anything you want, just like so many other carpenters out there. Most are also trained in welding, foam carving and paper-mâché and have the ability to use a vast number of power tools. We are also very skilled at solving problems on the fly, since we often encounter tricky issues and have to think fast to solve them in a quick, efficient manner.
3. So, If You Have All These Marketable Skills, Why Use Them for Theatre?
I cannot tell you how many times I have been asked this question. We chose theatre for the same reason a lot of other people have chosen their careers: because we love what we do. We love theatre, even if it is a lot of hard work. Yes, we know our skills could have gotten us a lot of other jobs, but if we wanted those jobs, we would have gotten them. We didn’t choose theatre as a last resort — it’s what we love and what we’re good at.
4. Can You Even Get a Job in That Field?
This is another question I get a lot (along with everyone else who works in theatre). The answer is yes. There is a high demand for carpenters in the theatre space, though sometimes you have to travel a long way from home to get one of these jobs.
5. So, You Started Off as an Actor. Why Didn’t You Stick With That?
Let me just clear one thing up for anyone who has ever asked this question of any theatre technician. We are not failed actors. In fact, a lot of us who started off acting were very good at acting but realized we enjoyed another side of theatre even more. Some of the best carpenters I have worked with have been really good actors, but they chose to do carpentry because they enjoyed creating shows instead of being in them.
6. Doesn’t It Bother You That Your Creations Only Last for a Short Time Before They’re Torn Down?
Sometimes, yes. I’ve had situations where it would take me months to build a set for a show that was only going to run for three days and would get torn down immediately after it closed. It can be a bit frustrating, but at the same time, I like to look at it like it’s my way of creating art that changes people’s lives. A show’s run might be short, but when people come to see it, they get to escape reality for a bit, and I know I played a part in helping them do so.
Thanks for reading! Have any questions that you get asked a lot about your theatre work? Have any other questions about scenic carpenters? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => A Guide To The Life And Work Of Scenic Carpenters [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => a-guide-to-the-life-and-work-of-scenic-carpenters [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-07-31 09:27:01 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-07-31 13:27:01 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=366260 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 5 [filter] => raw ) [30] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 366242 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2018-07-30 09:50:31 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-07-30 13:50:31 [post_content] => There’s nothing quite like an upbeat and inspiring showtune to start off thespians’ mornings and help them get through their day. Whether you want something classic or contemporary, here are 16 showtunes to blast the second your alarm goes off:1. ‘Seize the Day,’ from ‘Newsies’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pj63Ecf3LQg "Now is the time to seize the day, Answer the call and don't delay. Wrongs will be righted, if we're united. Let us seize the day!"2. ‘Good Morning’ from ‘Singin’ in the Rain’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bv4z6TORtKY "Good morning Good morning Sunbeams will soon smile through Good morning Good morning to you and you and you and you!"3. ‘Morning Person’ from ‘Shrek the Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQaVSORGRgs "Good morning birds good morning trees Oh, what a lovely day The suns so big it burns my eye but really that's okay!"4. ‘Just Another Day’ from ‘Next to Normal’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFt5ggJgrfI "Just another day, for another stolen hour, When the world will feel my power and obey. It's just another day, feeling like I'll live forever."5. ‘Circle of Life’ from ‘The Lion King’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ewOAsUWQJvo "From the day we arrive on the planet And blinking, step into the sun There's more to see than can ever be seen More to do than can ever be done"6. ‘Day One’ from ‘Groundhog Day’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLjB5_6XGic "Who is that? Who is that? Emerging from his burrow? Who can see today what we won't see until tomorrow?"7. ‘Bikini Bottom Day’ from ‘SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sf9vLUXZcC0 "How I love this town Bikini Bottom When the sun shines down On a beautiful Bikini Bottom day"8. ‘Opening Up’ from ‘Waitress’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQD1e6V7_ug "The day starts like the rest we've seen Another carbon copy of an old routine Days keep coming One out, one in They keep coming."9. ‘Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’’ from ‘Oklahoma’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNEUtN21cuU "Oh, what a beautiful mornin' Oh, what a beautiful day. I've got a beautiful feelin' Everything's goin' my way."10. ‘In the Heights’ from ‘In the Heights’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0BVfBwVqFo "Lights up on Washington Heights, up at the break of day. I wake up and I got this little punk I gotta chase away. Pop the grate at the crack of dawn, sing While I wipe down the awning Hey y’all, good morning!"11. ‘A Brand New Day’ from ‘The Wiz’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b26ASkRH0o4 "Everybody look around, 'Cause there's a reason to rejoice you see. Everybody come out, And let's commence to singing joyfully."12. ‘One Day More’ from ‘Les Misérables’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IddP8AAIGTQ "Tomorrow we'll discover What our god in heaven has in store! One more dawn, One more day, One day more!"13. ‘Feeling Good’ from ‘The Roar of Greasepaint — The Smell of the Crowd’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pulEa0cfNcw "It's a new dawn; it's a new day; It's a new life for me. Feeling good."14. ‘Here I Go’ from ‘If/Then’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07_CkayJ5hU "And I've studied all the stories, And what our chances are. Then my heart starts beating faster, And it makes this disaster worst by far. Still, here I go."15. ‘Good Morning, Baltimore’ from ‘Hairspray’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVVPVyj5Wr8 "Good morning, Baltimore. And someday when I take to the floor, The world's gonna wake up and see Baltimore and me."16. ‘Buenos Aires’ from ‘Evita’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVWE93FN5SU "I get out here, Buenos Aires. Stand back! You oughta know what you're gonna get in me: Just a little touch of star quality."What's your favorite showtune to start your day with? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 16 Showtunes To Help You Kick-Start Your Day [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 16-showtunes-to-help-you-kick-start-your-day [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-07-30 09:58:33 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-07-30 13:58:33 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=366242 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 3 [filter] => raw ) [31] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 364420 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2018-07-25 10:51:30 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-07-25 14:51:30 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=78] [post_title] => Quiz: Can You Identify The Musical Based On One Image? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-can-you-identify-the-musical-based-on-one-image [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-29 12:27:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-29 16:27:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=364420 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [32] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 366222 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2018-07-24 09:36:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-07-24 13:36:00 [post_content] => If you lived during the ‘90s and early 200s, it was hard to ignore Baz Luhrmann’s rise to fame. The Australian writer/director/producer took Hollywood by storm with three romantic films have have since become cult classics. Riding high off the success of “Strictly Ballroom” and “William Shakespeare’s Romeo + Juliet,” Luhrmann set out to create a jukebox musical film, and “Moulin Rouge” was born. This Oscar-nominated film is now set for a resurgence as it prepares to make its debut in Boston. Here’s what fans can expect from the upcoming production:1. High-Profile Leads
The iconic roles of Christian and Satine, played by Hollywood heavyweights in the film, have received their onstage equivalents. Tony Award-winning actress Karen Olivo will take on Nicole Kidman’s famed role, while Broadway favorite Aaron Tveit will fill in Ewan McGregor’s shoes. Check out Tveit singing the film’s iconic song “Come What May” and try not to fall in love.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFay0SVFxVI
2. From Boston to Broadway
The show will spend the summer in Boston playing at the Emerson Colonial Theatre, with previews running from July 10 until Aug. 19. The show was forced to push its original performance schedule due to a construction issue. While an official date has not been set, “Moulin Rouge” is looking to transfer to Broadway for the upcoming 2018/2019 season.
3. So You Think You Can Dance
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgbnhDN4GU0 Fans of “So You Think You Can Dance” will recognize the name Sonya Tayeh, who has set her sights on the choreography for this show. Emmy-nominated Tayeh is known for her innovative work in the dance world, which will marry perfectly with this unique production.4. Historical Period Pieces With a Twist
The “Moulin Rouge” stage adaptation was written by John Logan, whose recent credits include producing the Tony-nominated “Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812.” Both shows put a modern twist on a historical plot from a similar time period, with stunning results. Logan’s experience with “Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812” could lend itself well to creating a similar experience with “Moulin Rouge.”
5. Modern Music Flare
Part of what has made Luhrmann’s film so beloved was the use of popular music in the soundtrack. “Come What May” was the only original song used in the movie. The stage adaptation will use songs that appeared in the film and additional hit songs that became popular since the film’s debut.
Cult classics moving to Broadway is not a new idea, and recent results are mixed. While “Mean Girls” flourished, “Amélie” flopped. In the meantime, audiences will have to wait with bated breath for “Moulin Rouge” to debut, come what may.
Are you a "Moulin Rouge" fan? What are you hoping to see in the stage adaptation? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => What To Expect From The Stage Adaptation Of ‘Moulin Rouge’ [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => what-to-expect-from-the-stage-adaptation-of-moulin-rouge [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-07-24 11:43:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-07-24 15:43:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=366222 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [33] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 159684 [post_author] => 1294 [post_date] => 2018-07-22 21:59:55 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-07-23 01:59:55 [post_content] => The 2017-2018 Broadway Season is over. In that season, 33 productions opened which included new plays such as Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Parts 1&2 and 1984 along with new musicals such as The Band's Visit and Mean Girls. This list is looking at new musicals debuting on Broadway in the 2018-2019 which include 2 original shows, an adaptation of a hit rom-com, 2 jukebox musicals and a big ape. All art in their own right. Note: All shows on the list have their venues, first preview and opening confirmed and I'll try and update the list as new information comes out. If you want to add to the list you can but make sure you know the venue, first preview and opening. Note 2: All information about previews, openings and venues I got from Playbill [post_title] => Every New Musical Debuting In The 2018-2019 Broadway Season [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => every-new-musical-debuting-in-the-2018-2019-broadway-season [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-05 15:33:23 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-05 19:33:23 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=159684 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [34] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 364326 [post_author] => 11 [post_date] => 2018-07-21 07:45:27 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-07-21 11:45:27 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=76] [post_title] => The Ultimate 'Hairspray' Lyrics Quiz [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => the-ultimate-hairspray-lyrics-quiz [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-03-02 14:23:06 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-03-02 19:23:06 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=364326 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [35] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 366155 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2018-07-20 00:07:48 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-07-20 04:07:48 [post_content] => Short or long, satin or sequined, a fair share of dresses have graced Broadway stages. Costume designers far and wide have worked to create some of the stage’s most iconic looks and redesigned them for anticipated revivals. Here are some of our picks for Broadway’s best dresses:1. Gigi from ‘Gigi’
Vanessa Hudgens was the picture of elegance in Broadway’s recent revival of “Gigi.” It’s hard to choose between the gorgeous classically cut black and white gowns that Gigi dons as she grows up.
2. Lise from ‘An American in Paris’
The simple and sweet polka-dot dress shows its own sass with a swinging skirt and an eye-catching shade of blue. Gorgeous!
3. Natasha from ‘Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812’
Natasha’s empire-waisted white gown is delicate with its lace sleeves, yet glamorous with its embellishments.
4. Anastasia from ‘Anastasia’
It’s hard to choose between all of the dreamy dresses costume designer Linda Cho made for Broadway’s “Anastasia.” Between the stunning navy dress inspired by the animated film to the original bold, red gown created for the show, it’s a royal fantasy come to life.
5. Christine from ‘The Phantom of the Opera’
Christine’s white dress is fit for a diva with its many gorgeous layers and romantic ruffles. It’s definitely a gown worthy of a high note.
6. Lola from ‘Kinky Boots’
Short and sequined, this dress created by “Kinky Boots” costume designer Gregg Barnes is runway-ready and the definition of fierce. Look out, Beyoncé!
7. Glinda from ‘Wicked’
Glinda’s gorgeous cake-topper blue ball gown is likely her most infamous look in the musical, but it’s her svelte school arrival outfit that has us swooning. The tailored, clean lines work well with the delicate ruffles at the bottom of the skirt. Plus, what’s not to love about that adorable hat?
8. Diana Ross ‘Motown the Musical’
Diana Ross is a musical and style icon in “Motown the Musical” thanks to costume designer Emilio Sosa. It’s hard not to be blinded by all of the bling on this fiery gown and ruffled overcoat, giving the appearance of a majestic phoenix gliding across the stage.
9. Anna from ‘The King and I’
Lavender never looked so beautiful in a gown fit for a queen. That ball gown deserves a spin around the room and perhaps its own parade.
10. Roxie from ‘Chicago’
From its choreography to its costumes, there is no musical sexier than “Chicago.” Roxie’s iconic short dress manages to be both sexy and sleek with its long lace sleeves.
11. Dolly from ‘Hello, Dolly!’
It’s no question that this dress is a stunner, but it’s the fantastic headpiece that makes the ensemble. If making an entrance is the goal, this headpiece ticks all the boxes.
12. Ursula from ‘The Little Mermaid’
The creativity and intricacies of this dress make it a piece of art. Octopus legs cascading from either side accompany the figure-hugging dress designed with the appearance of scales. Being bad never looked so good.
There are many outstanding frocks created for Broadway stages every year that the Tony Awards really should give them their own category.
Who do you think should be the winner for best dress? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 12 Of Broadway’s Most Drool-Worthy Dresses [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 12-of-broadways-most-drool-worthy-dresses [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-07-20 00:07:48 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-07-20 04:07:48 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=366155 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) ) [post_count] => 36 [current_post] => -1 [before_loop] => 1 [in_the_loop] => [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 367974 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2018-10-01 00:52:25 [post_date_gmt] => 2018-10-01 04:52:25 [post_content] => Having your own personal actor website is very important in the times we’re living in. As a producer, the impact of casting those with a personal brand and influence is getting more and more common. Of course, you need talent, but the truth is we also look at your overall brand This: means social media following, video content... and the first place we usually look; your website. Acting is not a typical job, you're gigging always have a time stamp on them, and so it’s critical to have a home base. An actor website should be a living-digital resume for your work and a place to highlight all the reasons why we should cast you. It’s a powerful way to collect useful information such as headshots, resume, press, photos, acting reels, etc. Having a database of 'all things you' is extremely helpful for any producer, casting agents, managers, etc. We’ll touch more on the things you should include on your site later, but first, let’s cover the setup. Note: This is an in-depth guide on setting up your actor website and is broken down into two main parts, with steps in each. PART 1: Setting up & Building Your Website. PART 2: What content you should include in your site.Part 1: Setting Up & Building Your Actor Website
How do I even get started setting up my site anyway?
I’m sure many of you have said “I should really set up a website,” only to realize you have no idea where to get started. Well, that’s where I come in here. Many platforms make building your website a LOT easier. These platforms are known as “drag-and-drop” builders. Think of it as dragging a block of content onto a page, instead of coding it with numerous symbols and numbers. If you want an image somewhere specific on your site, drag the image block in place and upload your desired picture from your computer. For this tutorial, we will be using the popular site builder WIX A quick note: There are other sophisticated platforms out there such as WordPress, but they require more skill and attention. For a basic actor portfolio website, Wix offers everything you need, and it’s very easy to use. You will get your site set up much more quickly using a builder like WiX.Building Your Actor Website Step 1: Choose A Website Builder And Signup
As mentioned, we will be using Wix as an example, and what I recommend for those with no previous web building experience. It's also cheaper, $11 per month will give you access to your own unique domain name and remove all the Wix branding ads, so your site looks professional.First, you will want to signup for an account at WIX HERE
Click the start now button and fill out the details for creating a new account. Next, a 'create your website' button may appear.
You then may be prompted to choose what kind of site you want. I recommend hitting the 'Portfolio & CV' tab.
Then click the choose a template button.
After this, you will be asked to choose your theme. Don't worry, you can always change it later, but for this example, we will be using the 'Actor & Model' template. Any theme will do.
Choose the 'Edit' option. At this point, your site will load and be ready for editing. Now all you have to do is replace the content with your very own using the drag-and-drop editor. BUT first, there is another critical step. Keep your Wix window open as I explain step 2.
Step 2: Adding your personalized domain name to the website
With the Wix template open, click save in the upper right-hand corner. This will prompt another window. Hit the 'Connect your own customized domain' tab and continue.
Then click the 'Get a new domain' tab.
The great news here is Wix has their own ability to sell you a custom domain name, and they're cheap. You can choose a domain and connect it to your site all on the same platform.
This is the part where you pay for a premium hosting plan. This is a monthly fee for keeping your website online. No matter what platform you use, a hosting fee is always applied. Wix has some of the cheapest plans out there.
You will want to choose the 'Combo,' currently priced at $11/month if you pay a year in advance or $14.50 if you pay monthly.
The benefits of this plan, as opposed to the cheapest plan, are:
- Removal of Wix branding so your site looks professional
- The Combo plan also comes with a FREE domain for one year (for yearly plans only)
- 30 Minutes of video content which is essential for reels and any other video you might want to feature on your site.
Side-Step: Let's take a second to talk about the importance of a domain name
Having your own domain name is crucial for completing a professional looking website. What is a domain name? A domain name is the URL (or web address) that your site lives on. IE: theatrenerds.com. Wix offers a free URL, but it includes Wix in the title which doesn't accomplish a professional look. Here are the examples of the two: A free Wix URL: www.benbaileyaccount.wixsite.benbailey VS. Your own custom domain: benbailey.com So what name should you choose? If you're creating a personal brand site, I suggest keeping it simple and straightforward by using your first and last name, IE benbailey.com. What happens if your domain is already taken by someone else? Here's a few tips:- Try using the first letter of your middle name (or maybe even your entire middle name depending on length and readability). IE benjbailey.com
- If the .com version is not available, choose the .org or .net version (.com is always best though).
- Avoid any unnecessary words at the end IE benjbailey
actor.com
Search the desired domain name, and if it's available, it will allow you to proceed. Click the 'Get It' button.
Next, you will either purchase your domain or receive it for free with your plan.
Note: they may ask you if you want private registration. It's optional and not necessary for what we're doing here.
When you're done purchasing or connecting your domain, you will navigate back to the main dashboard and see that your site is there with the domain connected.
Step 3: Filling In The Content & Publishing
To make changes to your site click 'Site Actions' and then click 'Edit.'
After you're done replacing the current content with your own, you are now ready to publish the site, so it's live to the world! Click 'Publish' in the upper right-hand corner.
Note: You will want to save progress along the way by pushing the save button that always lives in the upper righthand corner
After publishing, you will then be able to view your website! Notice the custom domain appears as the web address (boxed in red).
Congratulations! You have now set up your very own actor website, setting you apart from 90% of the competition. If you read the entire post first, make sure to start from the beginning by singing up with WIX HERE
But how do I actually use the website builder to fill in my content?
Wix offers many tutorials on how to use their intuitive drag-and-drop builder. Even so, it may be a little daunting to get going. That's why we are offering a more in-depth step-by-step videos series on setting up and building your entire site. We will cover the steps discussed here and show you how to replace the information offered in the template, with your own material. We will also cover things like customizing the colors and feel of the site.
Part 2: What Kind Of Content Should My Acting Site Have?
When it comes to the types of content you should have on the site, I like to keep it clean and simple. Think of this as a first impression to anyone who visits. Things should be simple and visually pleasing but offer enough to give someone an idea of who you are, what you do, and what you're capable of doing.Let's break the necessities into 5 main sections. Each of these should be a tab on your sites navigation menu. In most cases, each tab will link to a separate page on your site.
Question: What's should be on the home page? Answer: You should make one of the following sections discussed into the home page. I suggest the 'About Me' section. You could even do a variety of things such as a bio, a few pictures, recent blog posts, and a video. Having a little of everything on the home page is kind of like an overture of your entire website.
Section 1. About Me or 'Bio'
The bio section should be a more informal way to get to know you when compared to the resume section (next up). You want to make this more personable, including things like where you grew up, how you fell in love with performing, and some specific examples of projects you've been a part of. A great example of this is Broadway vet Bret Shuford: https://www.bretshuford.com/bio
Bret does a great job mixing in personal details and professional accomplishments. He is also sure to link to things to help people who may be interested. In his bio alone he links to his YouTube channel, personal life coach brand, and his newsletter. This is a great utilization of getting what you can out of a single page.
Section 2. The Resume
Obviously, your resume page is the most important page on your site. Your resume page should include things downloadable headshots and a resume in PDF format. You also want to include a digital resume on the site itself, so it's easy for producers and casting agents to skim and see if you're a good fit. Then, they can use the download link to keep it on file. Let's take a look at Bret's resume again here: https://www.bretshuford.com/actor
Bret makes it easy for someone to view his resume online or download it. He also includes a reel on his digital resume page which is a nice bonus of an online resume as opposed to a PDF alone.
RESOURCE: For more info on how to write an eye-catching actor resume GO HERE
Section 3. Video/Photos
Video: This one is pretty self-explanatory, but very important as well. Video is how the world consumes content, and video is a much better way to convey if you're right for 'the' part. Video helps show your diversity and gets the casting team in the virtual audition room with you. Even if you don't have an official 'Reel' yet, just put whatever you have for now. Give them something to help get to know you as an actor. iPhones make great videos nowadays so no excuses. I love the way Kim Greenberg organizes her videos HERE Also, check out her entire site, it's another GREAT example of a job well done. Photos: As with video, photos help show you in action. They give a diverse perspective of the looks you can achieve and the characters you could potentially play. Let's face it, looks have a lot to do with casting, and I don't mean how attractive you are. Casting is a game of chemistry and having the perfect 'Fit' for a show. It's like interior design... everyone has to 'go with' each other within the style of a show or job. Photo tips: Try and include some lifestyle photos, headshots and photos of you in a production or on the job. I love how Megan McGinnis organizes her projects into categories HERE Pro Tip: You can put photos and videos under one category in your navigation menu by labeling it 'Media' and dropping those as categories underneath.Section 4. Contact Section
Although your contact info will most likely be on the resume, having a dedicated section for it is recommended. Here you will include things like:- Contact email (Phone not recommended)
- Agent Phone/Email (If Applicable)
- Where you are located: This doesn't have to be the specific address, city and state would suffice.
Section 5. News/Blog
While not entirely necessary, the news or blog section is a chance to brag about the projects you've done, and let people get to know you more. I've seen some actor websites with just news, some with just a blog, and others with both. It's up to you, but I suggest having a blog too! A blog will help you build loyal readers which is another term for fans! Letting someone in behind the scenes of your life can be a great way to create a personal brand of influence. Think about it; we love an inside scoop into people's lives.
That's A Wrap, Folks
You should think of your website as a tree with two different branches. One branch is for professional inquiries, and the other branch is for building a personal brand or fanbase. A blog can be an easy way to market yourself without feeling too... salesy. However, there is nothing wrong with self-promotion, but I'll save that for another post. I can't force you to create your own actor website, but my goal here was to at least make it easier and to see the long-lasting benefits. It's also a great way to document your journey as an actor and collect many memories of shows and gigs gone by.Questions or comments? Leave them below and I'll answer...
[post_title] => How To Setup, Build And Launch Your Personal Actor Website [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => how-to-setup-build-launch-your-personal-actor-website [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://theatrenerds.com/how-to-write-acting-resume/ [post_modified] => 2019-11-07 20:04:45 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-11-08 01:04:45 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=367974 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [comment_count] => 0 [current_comment] => -1 [found_posts] => 664 [max_num_pages] => 19 [max_num_comment_pages] => 0 [is_single] => [is_preview] => [is_page] => [is_archive] => 1 [is_date] => [is_year] => [is_month] => [is_day] => [is_time] => [is_author] => [is_category] => [is_tag] => [is_tax] => 1 [is_search] => [is_feed] => [is_comment_feed] => [is_trackback] => [is_home] => [is_privacy_policy] => [is_404] => [is_embed] => [is_paged] => 1 [is_admin] => [is_attachment] => [is_singular] => [is_robots] => [is_favicon] => [is_posts_page] => [is_post_type_archive] => [query_vars_hash:WP_Query:private] => e59f80b7a8c300694334fe83e1902ae8 [query_vars_changed:WP_Query:private] => 1 [thumbnails_cached] => [allow_query_attachment_by_filename:protected] => [stopwords:WP_Query:private] => [compat_fields:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => query_vars_hash [1] => query_vars_changed ) [compat_methods:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => init_query_flags [1] => parse_tax_query ) [query_cache_key:WP_Query:private] => wp_query:59330a37dfcb1bcd78af28cb17079ff7:0.24574900 17912843110.50294200 1791284311 )Latest stories
-

-

-

-

-

255 Shares
Regular Girls VS Theatre Girls Episode 2: Home Alone
Join the Leading Lady for another video in the Theatre Girls series
-

237 Shares1 Comment
Regular Girls VS Theatre Girls Episode 1: Road Trip
Join the Leading Lady for another video in the Theatre Girls series
-

399 Shares
Shows Justin Peck Should Choreograph
-

-

-

-

-

923 Shares
Quiz: Which Character From Jane Austen’s ‘Emma’ Are You?
Just like our favorite heroine, we’re ready to do some matchmaking!
-

-

1.3k Shares1 Comment
53 Refreshing Audition Songs For Tenors
-

1.1k Shares1 Comment
Can You Score Purrr-fectly On This ‘Cats’ Lyric Quiz?
Because Jellicles are and Jellicles do.
-

-

2.1k Shares
Create A Showtune Playlist And We’ll Tell You Which ‘Mamma Mia!’ Character You Are
How can you resist this?
-

-

-

-

1.1k Shares5 Comments
Quiz: Build An Ice Cream Sundae To Reveal Which Movie Musical You Should Watch
Because sprinkles and show tunes.
-

-

393 Shares
5 Lesser Known Shows Theatre Nerds Will Love
-

570 Shares
Quiz: Can You Guess The Production From The Name Of Its Character?
Put your geekiness to the test.
-

936 Shares1 Comment
Lyric Quiz: How Obsessed With ‘Mamma Mia! 2’ Are You Really?
Here we go again!
-

8 Shares
Poll: 21 Chump Street Opinions
-

-

-

740 Shares
Quiz: Plan A Summer Vacation And We’ll Tell You Which Theatre City To Visit
Take this quiz then book your flight.
-

-

-

-

-

-

663 Shares
The Ultimate ‘Hairspray’ Lyrics Quiz
Don’t let your hair fall flat. Belt those Baltimore tunes!
-



































