• Live Arts

Live Arts

There's a new wave of cool kids captivating the country - the guys in Glee! Everyone, even your gran, has probably tuned in to keep up with the teens who love performing arts. And even if this popular American show hasn't caught your eye, then you've probably watched Britain's Got Talent, right? How about MTV, or the latest movies?

Not everyone is into musical theatre, but most of us like at least one aspect of live arts. Live arts aren't just centred around big show numbers and bursting into song – they can be anything, from your band selling out the SECC to filming live productions for the TV. Sure, there are a lot of performance based jobs found in this arena – you could be in a band or an actor in a travelling theatre production company – but there are loads of careers behind the scenes if you're a bit shy of the stage. To put on the greatest show on earth, you need the greatest team on earth. And if you think you might fit the bill, here's some info on how to get there.

Television talent shows and the MTV Awards can seem a million miles away when you're watching them from your living room, but you can embark on a career in this area in so many different ways. Many people study film, TV, journalism and musical courses at college and university to make their mark. If conventional learning isn't for you, some people choose to make their own destiny, and work as runners for smaller productions and companies before climbing up the ladder to the big time. For those of you who want your name in lights, there are loads of theatre companies that will help you get there. From GAMTA to the Apollo Players, these places are right on your doorstep and seeking out new talent as we speak! For those of you interested in fiddling with wires and gadgets, you could provide the dramatic atmosphere by becoming a lighting assistant!

For a career in film or as a production assistant, there are loads of contacts to be made by joining clubs and organisations. Here, you can hope to meet like minded, diverse people who you can bounce your unique ideas off. It's inspiring to find that people are driven as much as you are, and who knows where you guys may end up. Companies such as the BBC and STV often take on volunteers, which can lead to exciting, rewarding jobs. From sound editors to subtitling experts, there are infinite uses for your talents in big companies.

The best thing about live arts is that they are alive in every city – including Glasgow! If you're looking for some inspiration, it may be a good idea to head to one of the many different music and film events at the CCA, or catch a play at the Tramway Theatre. They, along with a number of other organisations around the city, are at the core of new theatre, music and film. Even if you're not interested in the current events, the information provided within these centres will keep you posted on what's going on in the future. These centres are designed to be meeting grounds for people who are as interested in getting involved as they are in watching!

Getting started is the hardest part. But once you slam down the door, there's no stopping you! And you'll be surprised at how many corridors you see unfolding in front of your eyes. Steve Slater started out as a freelance writer and ended up as a Formula one commentator! And it's hard to see Simon Cowell being anything other than Mr Nasty, but can you believe he once worked in a mail room? It just goes to show that fairytale endings don't just happen in movies. If you've got the determination, you could be headlining T in the Park, founding a Glee-tastic production company like Apollo Players founder John Carlisle, or, if you're a creative writer – like me – you could end up writing the next big blockbusting script. So, what are you waiting for? Lights, camera, Action!