Performing Arts & COVID-19: Bouncing Back?

It’s no secret that the arts and theater industry have suffered a great deal over the past two years. With social distancing and mask requirements, it became challenging to safely put on performances and fill venues with audiences. While these health and safety limitations were put in place, Broadway and theaters across the country went dark, patiently waiting for the day on which they could welcome back performers and audiences.

The theater shutdowns resulted in a lack of employment opportunities for those pursuing careers in performing arts, from actors to writers and directors. It was, and still is, a challenging time for those working in the industry. In a 2020 interview, Matthew Smith, the chair of Stanford University’s Theater and Performance Studies department, pondered the impeding effects of the pandemic on the arts. Smith asserted that the pandemic “will almost certainly hasten what has already been a trend in theater performance – a trend toward the use of virtual media in concert with live performance” (Feder). What does this evolving virtual trend look like?

Over the past year, the arts industry has been returning to in-person activities, and developing more virtual opportunities. Some plays were performed over Zoom or through livestream channels, and some developers have even been using Virtual Reality to immerse audiences in a show. In September of 2021, Broadway shows began to return to the stage for masked and vaccinated audiences. Like with the rest of society, this is not necessarily a return to normalcy, but rather the start of a new era for the theater industry. How can students prepare for this state of hybridity in the arts, with both virtual and in-person experiences?

Students interested in a career in the arts might consider utilizing a virtual portfolio for their work. A virtual or online portfolio is a space for artists and creators to showcase their work and experiences in the industry. This is often a website created and maintained by the artist, and will have videos, photos, or descriptions of past performances, pieces, and experiences.

The arts industry is unique, because a description of a person’s past experiences will likely not be enough to be hired for another opportunity. A casting agent or producer needs to see and/or hear a person’s talent to determine if they are right for the role or position. This extends to careers beyond just actors or singers. Lighting directors, costume designers, artists and illustrators, writers, and many more may also choose to showcase their work in a virtual portfolio for future employers to see.

Linked below are several resources about creating a virtual portfolio. These are a great way to get started and familiar with the process. Students may also consider meeting with a Career Coach to talk about how to get set up for success in any industry and career path.

Photo by Michael Afonso on Unsplash