Why Theatre People Make Great Employees

or..."Yes, and?"

This past weekend, I had the privilege of serving as the associate director for a series of sold-out performances of "Hello, Dolly!" starring the incomparable Jodi Benson. As the final curtain fell and the applause echoed through the stunning Steinmetz Hall at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts , I was struck not only by the audience's appreciation but also by the extraordinary talent and dedication of the individuals working tirelessly behind the scenes on this charitable endeavor. It was a poignant reminder for me of the talent, tenacity and determination that theatre people have (especially those in Orlando) - that I believe makes them some of the best assets a company can invest in. It also allowed me to connect with some of my fellow creatives, and assist them with some guidance regarding their professional and personal goals. (So let me know if you're looking for a Creative-minded applicant at your workplace and let me host an introduction)

Theatre is an environment where multi-hyphenates thrive. In the fast-paced world of live performance, it's not uncommon to find individuals who juggle multiple roles: an actor doubling as a choreographer, a stage manager who can also handle lighting design, or a costume designer covered in paint during set construction. This ability to wear many hats is a hallmark of theatre professionals and translates seamlessly into the broader workforce. Here's just a few of the areas that I believe sets theatre people apart from the rest of the candidate pool:

Adaptability and Problem-Solving

Theatre people are masters of adaptability. When a prop malfunctions or an actor misses a cue, the show must go on, and quick thinking is paramount. This ability to pivot and solve problems on the fly is invaluable in any professional setting. Employees who can remain calm under pressure and find creative solutions are assets to any team.

Collaboration and Teamwork

Putting on a successful theatre production is the epitome of teamwork. From the actors on stage to the technicians backstage or in the booth, every role is interconnected and essential. This collaborative spirit fosters a deep understanding of the importance of working together towards a common goal. Theatre people bring this collaborative mindset to their jobs, making them excellent team players who value each member's contribution.

Strong Work Ethic

Theatre demands a relentless work ethic. Rehearsals are long, the work is physically and emotionally demanding, and perfection is the standard. This dedication and commitment to excellence carry over into other professions, where theatre-trained employees often go above and beyond to ensure success.

Communication Skills

Effective communication is the backbone of a successful production. Clear, concise, and respectful communication ensures that everyone is on the same page, whether during a rehearsal or a live performance. This skill is crucial in any workplace, where clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and enhance productivity. Theatre people are very commonly empaths - who often act as the social glue in a workplace environment. They support their colleagues, and help strengthen the sense of camaraderie.

Creativity and Innovation

At its heart, theatre is about storytelling and creativity. Theatre professionals are trained to think outside the box, to innovate, and to bring fresh perspectives to their work. This creative approach can drive innovation in any industry, leading to new ideas and solutions that might otherwise be overlooked.

Resilience and Perseverance

Theatre is not for the faint of heart. It requires resilience to face rejection, perseverance to perfect one's craft, and a positive attitude to keep moving forward despite setbacks. These qualities make theatre people particularly resilient employees who can handle challenges and setbacks with grace and determination.

As I reflect on the extraordinary effort and talent that brought "Hello, Dolly!" to life, I was consistently reminded of the unique qualities that theatre professionals bring to the table. Their adaptability, teamwork, strong work ethic, communication skills, creativity, and resilience make them invaluable assets in any professional environment. Hiring a theatre person means bringing on someone who is not only skilled and dedicated but also deeply passionate about their work—qualities that any employer would be fortunate to have.

So, the next time you're looking to hire, consider a theatre person—you might just find your star employee.

#theatre #thearts #creative #nowhiring #improvisation #jobseekers