Do You Need to Live in NYC for a Musical Theatre Career?
Spoiler: The stage is bigger than Broadway.
The Truth About the “Broadway or Bust” Mindset
For decades, musical theatre performers were told that New York City was the only place to “make it.” I believed that, too. I grew up thinking success meant living near Times Square, auditioning every week, and hustling until I landed a show on Broadway.
But the truth? That version of success no longer fits our modern, digital world. You can absolutely build a sustainable, fulfilling performing career from anywhere — as long as you learn how to treat your career like a business.
Why New York City Was Once Non-Negotiable
Before 2020, the industry revolved around proximity.
If you wanted to be seen for Broadway or national tours, you had to live in New York City, wait in long lines for open calls, or be on the ground for callbacks. That made sense when everything happened in person.
But today, the rules have changed — and the gatekeepers have changed with them.
The Shift: A Post-2020 Performing Industry
The pandemic forced casting directors, producers, and performers to adapt fast. Online submissions became the norm — and they’ve stayed that way. Now, even Broadway and national tours accept self-tapes and digital submissions.
Regional theaters and creative teams across the country are embracing flexibility and accessibility.
In short, the performing arts world has gone hybrid and that’s great news for you.
Evolution in Auditions and Opportunities
You no longer need to stand in line at 5 a.m. in the snow. I did it. I did it but that was a different time with different circumstances.
You can record your audition, refine it, and submit from anywhere — whether that’s New York, California, Oklahoma, or your living room.
Casting platforms like Actors Access, Backstage, along with direct submissions have opened doors for performers everywhere.
And self-tape skills are now a performer’s superpower helping you reach opportunities across the country and even internationally.
🎥 Watch Next: The 12 Steps to Building a Musical Theatre Career
This free masterclass breaks down the actual roadmap to a sustainable performer life — from branding to booking.
Why You Don’t Need to Move to New York
Let’s unlearn the myth that “if you’re not in New York, you’re not serious.”
Your career success depends on clarity, consistency, and visibility — not location.
I’ve worked with performers who built thriving careers from small towns, big cities, and everywhere in between. The key is knowing how to market yourself online, keep your materials updated, and network strategically.
You can train with world-class teachers via Zoom, record high-quality auditions from home, and connect with casting professionals through social media.
Your Career, Your Terms
Before you decide to move, ask yourself:
What kind of work excites me right now?
What lifestyle do I want to live?
Do I want to perform, create, teach, or blend all three?
These questions matter more than your address.
Success isn’t defined by a Broadway credit — it’s defined by alignment, balance, and fulfillment in the work you do.
Redefining Success for the Modern Performer
Your zip code doesn’t define your worth, your commitment to your craft does.
Whether you live in New York, Los Angeles, or anywhere else, what matters most is that you’re showing up consistently, sharing your work, and creating opportunities.
Performing careers aren’t about chasing geography anymore, they’re about building digital presence, personal brand, and professional confidence.
Next Steps for Performers
⭐ Download my free guide: The 5-Minute Daily Performer Reset Ritual — to help you reset your mindset and refocus your goals.
💬 Book a 1:1 coaching session with me here
📺 Watch next on YouTube: “Why Most Performers Waste Time (and the 12 Steps That Actually Work)”
Ashlee Espinosa, MFA is a professional actress and career coach helping performers and artist-entrepreneurs build bold, burnout-free creative careers onstage and off. With two decades of experience and a unique bi-coastal perspective, Ashlee blends mindset, marketing, and business strategy to help multi-hyphenate artists grow their visibility and income without sacrificing their well-being. Through 1:1 coaching, free weekly resources, and digital tools, she helps creatives design careers that feel as good as they look — and pay them well too.
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