Via against the tide’s Flickr
As a beginning performer, one of the hardest things to do is to actually start performing. Following these 6 helpful tips will help you get on your way.
-The best way to find gigs is by doing gigs. As a beginning performer, don’t pass up the opportunity to be on stage in front of potential clients. Open stage shows, variety shows and even street performing can help you find gigs. Get out there and hone your craft!
-Be prepared to perform for different audiences. Some audiences are old, some young, some warm, some hostile. Do not use the same routine for kindergartners that you use in burlesque shows.
-Have a clean professional business card ready with you at all gigs. If you don’t hand out your business card, they will never find you.
-Have a website! This really isn’t debatable. Clients will look to your website to see what sets you apart from other jugglers. A YouTube page is not a substitute for a website.
-Craigslist can be a valuable resource for finding gigs, especially for beginning performers. The problem is that it can become very tedious. In order to stay on top of potential jobs, you must search Craigslist everyday. Work around this problem by using a program like Craigsnotifica, which can automatically alert you when gigs are posted on Craigslist.
-Did you have a nice gig? Send a thank you note to the event’s organizer. People remember stuff like this. Didn’t have a nice gig? Send one anyway.
-Be nice! The people you meet on the way up are the same ones you meet on the way down. Don’t assume anything about people. Besides, a smile doesn’t cost a thing.
