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Network: Talk with people working in the field to find out about jobs and opportunities.

Read newspapers and periodicals related to the theater to keep up with new developments. Read the "trades," magazines and newspapers that report events in the entertainment industry. Read the "Theater" section of daily newspapers to find out about upcoming productions.

Get your foot in the door and get involved with productions in any way you can. Be prepared to do various tasks assigned by stage managers or producers.

Be prepared to move to a metropolitan area where more opportunities exist.

Theater helps students develop verbal and written communication, public speaking, and teamwork skills. These transferable skills are valued by many types of employers.

Volunteer with fundraising efforts for the arts.

Complete an internship or an apprenticeship with a local theater. Participate in summer stock.

Be aware of scams. Check out the legitimacy of agencies and companies before paying any fees.

Join professional groups as an opportunity to make contacts.

A career in the arts takes patience, dedication, and luck! Have a back-up plan.

Be aware that the unemployment rate for actors hovers around 85%. Develop skills that qualify you for other jobs while you wait for opportunities in acting. Consider pairing theater with another career interest or major to open up more job opportunities.

There are many ways to be involved in the theater while pursuing other career options.