Most people enter music and theatre careers because of a passion for the arts. Musical theatre performance, which includes acting, singing, and dancing, is not just a career or a way to earn a living. It fosters social awareness through exposure to the social issues, events, and unique cultures that are portrayed in scripts. That is why students should not only develop their performance skills, but also endeavor to discover the works of literature that inspire works of art.
Taking the first step after music school can be tricky and overwhelming. You need resilience, patience, and persistence to get through auditions and reach your desired destination. Building a network of other successful artists can help you achieve success more quickly. Putting in the work is essential as taking shortcuts may seem easier initially but will only lead to more disappointments later on.
In this episode, Daniel Cooney takes us through his experience of navigating the world of theatre as a vocation. He talks about the triumphs and struggles he has faced and offers advice to aspiring actors. He shares three essential skills that all actors should strive to possess in order to be truly successful in their craft. Get ready to hear inspiring stories and tips from a professional actor.

Snapshot of the Key Points from the Episode:
[02:31] Dan’s backstory and his journey on Broadway. Dan’s first auditions and shows.
[06:46] His transition from New York to Roosevelt and how that impacted his career.
[08:48] One of Dan’s stand-out performances
[09:55] What it was like going from a performer to being a teacher in Roosevelt.
[12:50] What do students pursuing music and theatre do to land their first jobs?
[15:31] Activities that kids need to be doing during summer in regard to theatre.
[18:35] Common challenges that theatre students face as they transition to the world of performance.
[23:16] What graduates need to do to continue their lifelong education in theatre.
[25:51] What motivated Dan to open a theatre?
[40:23] What should an actor do to prepare for auditions? How to cope with the new wave of video communication?
[45:57] What are the three must-have skills for actors?



About Daniel Cooney -
Daniel is the Co-Founder/Producing Artistic Director of The Encore Theatre in Dexter, MI, and is the Head of Musical Theatre at CCPA (Roosevelt University - Chicago, IL). His Broadway credits include Mamma Mia (Bill), Les Miserables, 9 to 5 the Musical, and Bonnie and Clyde.
.
Off-Broadway: Heathers (Kurt's Dad/Veronica's Dad), The Thing About Men (Man).
National Tours: Evita (Che), Fiddler on the Roof (Perchik), The Civil War, and Les Miserables. Daniel has directed at The Encore: Into the Woods (Wilde Award Nomination), Les Miserables, Evita, Sweeney Todd (Wilde Award Nominee: Best Musical), The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Damn Yankees, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Last 5 Years, Godspell, and Nevermore. Performances at The Encore: Evita (Che), Jesus Christ Superstar (Judas), and Nevermore (Edgar Allen Poe).

How to connect with Daniel Cooney:
Website: www.theencoretheatre.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-cooney-0693b032/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Encore.Musical.Theatre
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theencoretheatre/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLkXC1WrZx4wRs_vIi1zifQ

About the Host -
Belinda Ellsworth is a Speaker, Trainer, Best-Selling Author, and Podcaster
She has been a professional speaker, mover, and shaker for more than 25 years. Having built three successful companies, she has helped thousands of entrepreneurs make better decisions, create successful systems, and build business strategies using her "Four Pillars of Success" system.
Belinda has always had a passion and zest for life with the skill for turning dreams into reality.

How to Connect with Belinda:
Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/workfromyourhappyplace
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/belindaellsworth
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/workfromyourhappyplace/
Website - www.workfromyourhappyplace.com


Quotes:
“We all have unique skills and passions that make us great at what we do. Find yours, and own your lane.”
“Avoiding the work at the end of the day is more painful than not doing the work.”
“Making the transition from college to the real world can be intimidating, but with determination and hard work, you can make it.”