The latest from Ruthie: Making It

August 2003 I'm asked so many times for advice on getting into musical theatre, so I thought I would put my experience down on paper - or rather computer!

There is no sure-fire way to 'make it' in showbusiness, but having talent is probably a good start! If you feel your talent is for musical theatre, then is college necessarily your next choice? Well, I went to Laine Theatre Arts and although I had a 'voice' and could dance before I went, it was the best thing I could have done. I was able to work on my craft and also learn discipline which I needed. So, I would recommend training after leaving school, although I realise it is expensive, and the Government are not helping at all (don't get me started!). Just fight for funding wherever you can.

For me, the most important thing you will ever need is commitment. Commitment to being the best you can. Commitment to whatever job you're doing. Commitment, and wanting it more than anything else. For years I did everything I could: shows, charity shows, helping out friends, so for seventeen years I have really given my career my all. Now I am only able to take time to be with Lily and Tim because I have built a career with a strong base. I can dedicate time to my daughter and take the jobs that I want or need.

I come from a school of training where you do everything full out until told to mark it, and it makes me sad when I see the new school of thought which is mark it until told to do it full out. Dancing is such a short career and it can last a lot longer if we look after our bodies and work full out to the best of our ability.

The other thing that will help you enormously in musical theatre is being able to sing, dance and act. Being able to do all three will mean you are much more in demand.

When someone turns you down, don't take it personally. Find out why and work on those things. Also remember that sometimes you are just a square peg in a round hole and you just don't fit the job. Be courteous, work hard, and leave the diva in you behind. There is no need for bad behaviour and diva fits, that just makes life hard for everyone.

So, good luck! It's a wonderful business to be in, and we are all blessed to be given the gifts and opportunities. I've always thought if you want something enough, you can have it - it worked for me!

Love,


Ruthie xx