She Strengthens

The Unseen Struggle of Pursuing a Dream

Chasing Stardom in the City That Never Sleeps

For many aspiring performers, moving to a big city like New York or Los Angeles is the ultimate dream. The bright lights, the endless opportunities, and the chance to make it big on Broadway or in Hollywood – it’s a siren’s call that’s hard to resist. But what’s it really like to pursue a career in the performing arts?

The Reality of Auditioning

As someone who’s been in the trenches, I can tell you that it’s not all glamour and excitement. The truth is, auditioning is a full-time job in itself. It’s a grind that requires endless hours of preparation, rejection, and uncertainty. You have to be willing to put yourself out there, day after day, and face the very real possibility of hearing “no” time and time again.

The Financial Burden

And then there’s the financial cost. To make it in the performing arts, you need to be willing to invest in yourself – and that means shelling out big bucks for headshots, classes, workshops, and more. The cost of living in a big city like New York or Los Angeles doesn’t help, either. Rent, food, transportation – it all adds up quickly. And if you’re not careful, you can find yourself drowning in debt and uncertainty.

The Emotional Toll

But the financial burden is only half the story. The emotional toll of auditioning can be just as devastating. Rejection is a constant companion, and it’s hard not to take it personally. You start to wonder if you’re good enough, if you’re talented enough, if you’re worthy of success. It’s a heavy weight to carry, and it can be crushing at times.

Insights from the Front Lines

I spoke with several performers who are still in the trenches, and their stories are a testament to the struggles and sacrifices that come with pursuing a career in the performing arts.

• Aaron, an actor in Los Angeles, notes that the competition is fierce, and it’s hard not to feel like you’re just a small fish in a big pond.
• Anna, a performer in London, highlights the financial struggles that come with pursuing a career in the arts. From headshots to classes, the costs add up quickly – and it’s hard to make ends meet.
• Brad, an actor in Boston, talks about the emotional toll of auditioning. It’s a constant rollercoaster of highs and lows, and it takes a lot of courage to keep putting yourself out there.
• Jennifer, a performer in New York City, breaks down the financial costs of pursuing a career in the arts. From rent to voice lessons, it’s a pricey proposition – and it’s hard to make ends meet.
• Kendra, an actress in Seattle, notes that it’s often about situation rather than skill. If you don’t have the financial means to pursue your dreams, you can find yourself falling behind.
• Collin, an actor in New York City, talks about the cost of developing a thick skin. Rejection is a constant companion, and it takes a lot of emotional resilience to keep going.
• Brittany, a performer in Chicago, notes that auditioning is a job in itself. You have to think of yourself as a business commodity, and that means investing in yourself – financially, emotionally, and mentally.

The Bottom Line

Pursuing a career in the performing arts is not for the faint of heart. It takes courage, resilience, and a willingness to take risks. But for those who are passionate about their craft, it’s worth it. As Brittany notes, “You have to think of it as a job. Auditioning IS your full-time job – whatever else you’re doing, be it waiting tables or bartending or temping? That’s your side gig.” It’s a tough road, but for those who are willing to put in the work, the rewards can be immense.