How to Build Connections in the Performing Arts: Lessons from My Journey

In the performing arts, talent is important, but it’s the connections you make that will sustain your career. Building relationships with other artists, mentors, and even your audience is key. As someone who has juggled roles as a teacher, TV actor, and theatre performer while pursuing further studies, I’ve learned how crucial these connections are. Here’s how you can build meaningful connections in the performing arts, based on my experiences.

1. Collaborate Across Disciplines

Collaboration is one of the best ways to make connections. The performing arts are a team effort, and every project is a chance to meet new people and learn from them.

• Example: During my work on Kandor (Candour), a play that toured Europe and Asia, I collaborated with artists and scholars from different countries. This project opened new doors for me. In fact, thanks to the connections I made in India during the tour, I am still conducting workshops there to this very day

Tip: Look for projects that allow you to work with people from different artistic fields and backgrounds. Collaborating will help you learn and create lasting relationships.

2. Get Involved in Your Local Arts Community

Being active in your local arts scene is a great way to meet people and build connections. The more you participate, the more people will know your work.

• Example: Directing and performing in Theatre in Education programmes across Malta helped me connect with teachers, parents, and local organisations. This led to more opportunities for collaboration

Tip: Attend events, volunteer, or start your own community-based projects. Engaging with your local arts community can lead to valuable connections.

3. Attend Festivals and Networking Events

Festivals and networking events are perfect for making connections. They bring together people from across the industry who are eager to meet and collaborate.

• Example: Attending the Edinburgh Fringe Festival was a turning point in my career. It gave me the chance to showcase my work internationally and meet other artists, directors, and producers

Tip: Go to industry festivals, workshops, and networking events. Introduce yourself, share your work, and follow up with the people you meet.

4. Find Mentors to Guide You

Mentorship is incredibly valuable. Having someone with experience to guide you can help you navigate the challenges of the industry.

• Example: While working on L-Elett (The Elected), an immersive theatre experience, mentors helped me through the complex production process. Their advice shaped both the project and my future career

Tip: Reach out to people you admire and ask for guidance. A good mentor can help you avoid common mistakes and accelerate your growth as an artist.

5. Use Social Media and Digital Platforms

Building connections isn’t limited to in-person events. Social media is a powerful tool for networking in today’s world.

• Example: During the COVID-19 pandemic, I adapted by connecting with audiences and collaborators online, using digital platforms to keep my projects alive

Tip: Use platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube to connect with other artists and share your work. Social media can help you reach a global audience and expand your network.

6. Stay in Touch After the Project Ends

Don’t let your connections fade after a project is over. Some of the most rewarding relationships are the ones you nurture long after the initial collaboration.

• Example: Staying connected with collaborators from Kandor (Candour) and mentors from other projects led to new opportunities and sustained my career

Tip: Make an effort to stay in touch with the people you work with. Whether through a quick email, social media interaction, or catching up in person, maintaining relationships can lead to future collaborations.

Conclusion: Building Connections is Essential

In the performing arts, building connections is key to sustaining and growing your career. Through collaboration, community involvement, mentorship, and staying connected, you can create a network that supports you and opens doors. From my experience, I’ve learned that while talent is important, the connections you make and maintain are what will help you succeed.

So, get out there, meet people, collaborate, and most importantly, stay connected. Your future in the performing arts depends on it.