In the performing arts world, it’s easy to compare yourself to others. You might see someone in your class who learns choreography instantly, memorises lines after one read, or hits vocal runs as if they were born doing it. Meanwhile, you might need extra time to learn the same material.

In today’s industry, your brand is more than what you do on stage or screen – it’s also how you present yourself online. Casting directors, agents, and producers often look at social media before making decisions, so your digital presence can either work for you or against you.

At NAPA, we believe dance is far more than a sequence of steps and polished technique—it’s a living, breathing art form that tells a story without a single spoken word. When a dancer layers character, intention, and emotion over their technique, movement transforms into something magnetic. It’s the kind of performance that lingers in the audience’s mind and heart long after the curtain has closed. This, after all, is what performance and art are truly about—connection, transformation, and shared human experience.

In the world of performing arts, talent is your ticket in. Your skill, your presence, your artistry—they’ll get you noticed. They’ll land you the audition, the callback, maybe even the job. But talent alone isn’t what keeps you working. What truly sustains a career in this industry is who you are when the spotlight isn’t on you.

In the performing arts world, we’re often told to keep pushing forward — to train harder, chase the next role, perfect the next routine, and keep our eyes firmly on our goals. And while that drive is a big part of becoming a successful performer, it’s just as important to take moments to slow down, look around, and look back.

As performers, it's easy to focus on memorising lines — making sure every word is delivered perfectly. But true acting doesn’t live in the words alone — it lives in the space around them.
The pauses.
The thoughts.
The emotional shifts.
The reactions.

School holidays are the perfect time to rest, recharge, and reconnect with the world outside the stage lights — but that doesn’t mean letting your skills go cold. The best performers know how to stay show-fit and soak up real-life experiences that make their acting, dancing, and singing more truthful and rich. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of your break:

Rejection is part of every performer’s journey—no matter how successful they are today. Even professionals and Hollywood superstars face it regularly. Not getting the part doesn’t mean you aren’t talented, capable, or worthy of a career in the arts. It just means that this particular role wasn’t the right fit at this particular time. And that’s okay.

One of the most powerful tools an actor or performer can develop isn’t found in a script — it’s found in everyday life. Great characters don’t just come from imagination; they come from observation. Watching people closely — how they move, how they react, how they speak — is how you turn a character from words on a page into a living, breathing person.

In the performing arts, your body is more than just your physical presence—it's your instrument. Whether you're dancing, acting, singing, or doing all three, your body’s health, energy, and resilience are essential to your success. One of the most powerful ways to care for that instrument is through the way you fuel it: with food.

In the world of performing arts, perfection can sometimes feel like the ultimate goal. We watch polished performances on stage, in film, or online, and it’s easy to believe that great performers never make mistakes. But the truth is, everyone—even the most seasoned professionals—makes mistakes. It’s part of being human and part of the learning journey.

In the world of musical theatre, dance, and singing, the journey never really ends — and that's one of the most exciting parts of this career.

Even the most successful performers in Broadway, film, or concert stages continue to train, grow, and refine their craft. Why? Because staying curious and open to learning keeps your performances fresh, your skills sharp, and your passion alive.

Here’s how you can embrace the mindset of lifelong learning:

Following on from last week’s Performance Tip “Shine Together and Not Just Alone”, a truly compelling performance is never the result of one person alone. No matter the size of your role — whether you're delivering a key monologue or simply walking across the stage in a silent moment — your presence, energy, and intention contribute to the overall story. Theatre, film, and any form of ensemble performance are collaborative art forms, and their strength depends entirely on the commitment of every performer involved.

One of the most exciting things about performing is getting the chance to shine—to sing that big solo, nail a dance break, or fully step into character. But here’s something every great performer knows: the best performances happen when the whole cast shines together.

As the days grow colder and rehearsal rooms get chillier, performers of all kinds—dancers, vocalists, and actors—need to be extra mindful of self-care. Whether you're leaping across the stage, projecting your voice to the balcony, or embodying a character through hours of rehearsal, the change in weather can impact your performance if you’re not prepared. Here are some season-specific tips to help you stay healthy, energised, and performance-ready all winter long.

When you're passionate about performing, it’s easy to feel protective of your work — but remember: feedback is one of the greatest gifts you can receive! Every note, comment, or suggestion is an opportunity to grow stronger, sharper, and more connected to your craft.

As a performer, feedback is an invaluable part of your artistic journey—it’s a way to refine your craft, expand your abilities, and gain new perspectives. However, receiving feedback, whether positive or constructive, can sometimes feel challenging. The key is to approach it with an open mind and a growth-oriented mindset.

When choosing a song for your vocal audition, it’s important to consider several key factors to ensure you present your best self.

Auditions can be a nerve-wracking experience, but the more prepared and organised you are, the more confident you’ll feel walking into the room. Here are some key tips to help you stay on top of your audition game:

When bad weather keeps you stuck indoors, it’s easy to feel disconnected from your craft. But isolation doesn’t have to mean stagnation! Whether you're a singer, dancer, or actor, there are plenty of ways to train safely at home and keep your skills sharp.