How can theatre conferences help you find mentors and network effectively?

1 Choose the right conference

Before you register for any conference, do some research on what it offers and who it targets. There are different types of theatre conferences, such as academic, professional, regional, or niche. Depending on your goals, interests, and budget, you might want to choose a conference that suits your needs and preferences. For example, if you want to learn more about a specific genre, technique, or issue in theatrical production, you might look for a conference that focuses on that topic. If you want to expand your network and find opportunities, you might opt for a conference that attracts a diverse and influential audience.

3 Seek out mentors and mentees

One of the main benefits of attending a theatre conference is that you can learn from the experts and the novices in your field. You can seek out mentors who can offer you guidance, feedback, and support in your career development. You can also offer to mentor others who are less experienced or new to the industry. Mentoring relationships can be formal or informal, long-term or short-term, depending on your availability and compatibility. To find mentors and mentees, you can use the conference program, app, or website to identify speakers, panelists, or attendees who share your interests or goals. You can also ask for referrals from your existing contacts or join mentoring programs or sessions organized by the conference.

4 Network strategically and authentically

Networking is not just about exchanging business cards or adding contacts on social media. It is about building meaningful and lasting relationships with people who can help you grow and succeed in your field. To network effectively at a theatre conference, you need to be strategic and authentic. You need to have a plan of who you want to meet, why you want to meet them, and how you can follow up with them. You also need to be yourself and show genuine interest and curiosity in others. You can network before, during, and after the conference by using various channels and platforms, such as email, phone, chat, or video. You can also join or create groups, forums, or events related to the conference theme or topics.

5 Take advantage of the resources and opportunities

A theatre conference is not only a place to meet people, but also a place to access valuable resources and opportunities that can enhance your skills and knowledge. You should take advantage of the workshops, seminars, masterclasses, or demonstrations that the conference offers and learn from the best practices and innovations in your field. You should also explore the exhibition, trade show, or showcase that the conference features and discover new products, services, or projects that can inspire or assist you in your work. You should also look for opportunities to present, perform, or pitch your own work and get feedback, exposure, or recognition.

6 Reflect and act on your experience

After the conference is over, you should not just go back to your routine and forget about what you learned and who you met. You should reflect on your experience and evaluate what you gained and what you can improve. You should also act on your experience and apply what you learned and follow up with your contacts. You should send thank-you notes, feedback forms, or testimonials to the organizers, speakers, or mentors who helped you. You should also reach out to your new contacts and express your appreciation, interest, or offer. You should also update your resume, portfolio, or website with your new skills, achievements, or projects.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?