The life of a performer is one of passion, dedication, and perseverance. But let’s face it – there are times when the dream doesn’t quite pay the bills. While many performers take on traditional side gigs like café or retail work, there’s a smarter way to earn an income while still staying connected to the entertainment world. Enter industry-aligned jobs – roles that immerse you in the very world you want to thrive in, keeping you close to opportunities, networking, and professional growth.

Why Choose an Industry Job?

Performing isn’t just about what happens on stage – it’s about understanding the ecosystem that makes the entertainment world turn. By taking on industry-related jobs, you’re not just earning money; you’re gaining invaluable experience, expanding your network, and developing a well-rounded perspective on how the industry operates.

Here’s why industry-aligned jobs are a game-changer:

1. Learn the Industry Inside and Out – Whether you’re working Front of House (FOH) at a theatre or assisting backstage, you gain firsthand insight into the production process, audience engagement, and the logistics of live entertainment.
2. Expand Your Network – These jobs put you in direct contact with directors, producers, technical crews, and fellow performers – people who may be key to your next career move.
3. Enhance Your Performance Skills – Observing productions from different perspectives can improve your stagecraft, timing, and overall awareness of how a show comes together.
4. Open Doors to Future Roles – Many industry professionals started in FOH, BOH, or administrative roles before transitioning to directing, producing, or securing lead performance opportunities.

Industry Jobs That Keep You Close to the Action

If you’re ready to make a shift from just paying the bills to investing in your career, consider these industry-related jobs:

Front of House (FOH) Jobs

• Theatre Usher or Box Office Staff
• Venue Host
• Cinema Attendant
• Event Ticketing & Guest Services

These roles put you in direct contact with audiences, helping you understand audience expectations and the business side of live performance.

Back of House (BOH) & Production Roles

• Stage Crew or Production Assistant
• Lighting and Sound Operator
• Costume & Wardrobe Assistant
• Set Construction & Design Crew

Working behind the scenes offers a unique perspective on the technical and logistical elements of performance, which can be beneficial in strengthening your craft.

Casting, Talent, and Administrative Work

• Casting Assistant
• Talent Agency Assistant
• Theatre/Production Company Administrative Roles
• Marketing & PR for Theatres and Live Events

These roles provide exposure to the business and promotional side of entertainment, equipping you with valuable industry knowledge.

Live Entertainment & Event Work

• Theme Park Performer
• Tour Guide (Theatre or Entertainment-Based)
• Audience Coordinator for TV or Live Events
• Corporate Entertainment Performer

These positions allow you to flex your performance muscles while gaining consistent work and industry experience.

Why Avoid Traditional Survival Jobs?

While working in a café or retail job can be a quick fix, these roles don’t contribute to your growth as a performer. Industry jobs, on the other hand, keep you engaged with the world you want to succeed in. They provide more than just financial stability – they offer learning opportunities, networking, and skill development.

How to Get Started

If you’re ready to align your income with your aspirations, here’s what to do next:

1. Research – Check theatre company websites, entertainment venues, and job boards for industry-adjacent positions.
2. Network – Talk to fellow performers, venue staff, and industry professionals to uncover opportunities.
3. Stay Open to Learning – Even a seemingly minor role can provide insights and connections that benefit your long-term career.
4. Apply & Take Action – Don’t just think about it – take the next step and apply for roles that keep you close to the stage.

Your day job shouldn’t just be about survival – it should be a stepping stone towards your greater artistic ambitions. By choosing industry-aligned work, you’re keeping yourself in the game, learning new skills, and placing yourself in the path of opportunity.

Now, we’d love to hear from you! Have you worked an industry-adjacent job that helped shape your career? Share your experiences in the comments or tag us on social media using #SpotlightSaturday and #CreateYourSuccess.

Here’s to staying in the world you love – —on and off stage!