New York City has always been one of the premier destinations for those looking for a chance to make it as an actor or singer. There are loads of shows and opportunities for fledgling artists to get a shot at performing. However, the Big Apple is not an easy place to make it. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to become a successful performer here. Follow these tips to success as a singer or actor in New York City.

 

Impressive Portfolio

Apart from passion what matters is how effectively you can project your image to the world with an impressive portfolio. Since you are stepping in the media and show business you must showcase this to the world. This is a must-do before you launch yourself in either NYC or any other city in the world. Have you recorded any CDs or any professionally recorded video on YouTube? Do you have a website? What does your online portfolio say about you? Search yourself on the internet and find out what comes up? Now search some of your role models – not the high-flying super stars but some budding artists – what do you find? Compare, analyze and add to your profile. There have been quite a few cases of talent being found through YouTube – which is free – so why not use such retargets and add value to your online profile?

 

Have a Support System

When you are following a dream, it helps so much to have people around you that are supportive. There are a number of ways to do this. One of the best is to have a roommate that is also trying to make it as an artist. You can help each other run lines, give each other advice and support each other whenever tough times come.

Another great way to get support is to join a class. This will help you in the short and the long run. Whether singing or acting, joining a class of students is a great way to meet friends in the business. Having friends who understand what you are going through will help a lot in the tough task of making it as an artist in New York City. Look for acting workshops or singing lessons in NYC to improve your craft and make friends in the business.
 

Network

Making friends in the business is also helpful because it increases opportunities for networking. Networking is as important, maybe even more important, in the artistic community as in any other field. Having friends that can let you know about auditions and introduce you to directors and casting agents will give a tremendous leg up in the business. Always be friendly to everyone and try to increase your network all the time. Attend local festivals and events and keep track of where upcoming artists are performing. You never know when someone you say a kind word to will land you a big break down the road.
 

Find a Mentor

Someone who has been there done that will most likely offer you the best advice. Finding a mentor might be easier than you think. All you have to have is the tact and the right way to ask. And if you do find the right person then you can possibly accelerate much faster to your dream career.
 

Work Hard

If you work hard enough, all your dreams will come true. This means practicing when you don’t feel like it. It means going to acting class or singing lessons in NYC instead of that party all your friends are going to. It means going out in the street to perform for tips to get in some practice in front of an audience. Achieving your dream means sacrificing things along the way. Work hard, keep chasing your dream and you will catch it. And hang around as you work hard, at times luck and opportunity comes by if you just stick to it and be there at the right time. An inspiring example from Jennifer Lopez (target: Wikipedia):

Jennifer Lopez gained her first regular high-profile job as a Fly Girl dancer on the television comedy program In Living Color. She applied for the job after one of the cast members was unavailable to continue with the show. Out of two thousand applicants, Lopez made it to the finals; becoming the runner-up, but eventually received the role when the winner was unable to accept the job.