The “triple threat” is the gold standard in the entertainment biz. These are the performers who can sing, dance, act, or even play an instrument—a skill set that allows them the greatest range of roles. They’re the ones who can play the lead in any musical or add a musical touch to any role on the silver screen.
But there’s a reason the performance world so values triple threats: becoming one isn’t an easy feat. That’s why we’ve collected our top tips for becoming a triple threat as a performer.
Focus on Developing Skills
There is a myth that some of us are just “born” dancers, musicians, or singers. While we all have things that we are naturally more gifted at, performers aren’t born. They’re made with hard work. That means you need to take the time to intentionally build skills in all three of your chosen disciplines. For instance:
- Take lessons online or in-person
- Find more-experienced mentors
- Attend workshops
- Find supplemental material like books and videos
- Watch other performers
But it isn’t enough just to put your name down for a lesson. Getting the most of your online music lessons or acting workshop means having the mindset of putting the work in yourself. That means practicing, asking questions, and being open to constructive criticism.
Broaden Your Horizons
The performing arts are all about self-expression, so you may have an idea of the styles you want to take part in. But as a triple threat performer, you need to be open to forms for a performing art that you may not have considered before.
For example, you may be incredibly gifted at hip-hop dance. It’s important to play to your strengths, but keep in mind that you should be open to developing your skills in classical or modern forms of dance as well. The same goes for genres of music you sing or play or the styles of theatre you act in.
Take Every Opportunity
The old saying “there are no small parts, only small actors” applies well to all the branches on the T3 tree. When it comes to becoming a triple threat performer, it isn’t enough to practice your skills in the dance studio or in front of the home piano. You need to practice performing in front of other people.
That means you can’t have the mindset of only looking for the performance opportunities that will be your “big break.” Those community theatre performances and small, independent film roles will not only build up your resume but also your skills. With enough persistence, you’ll be dancing, singing, playing, and acting your way into the hearts of bigger crowds.
