The 15-Step Guide To Becoming A Thespian
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| By
Harriet Wilson
(Updated on Sep 18, 2025)
If you are experiencing the Symptoms of Thespianism (unsure? Check out the symptoms here, and have decided to indulge in your new-found passion, here are 15 things that you can do to establish yourself fully within the world of theatre.
1. Accept that spare cash is a thing of the past.
Theatre tickets can be pricey. Sure, you’ll find great deals (London Theatre Direct has plenty of offers), but let’s be honest — any “saving” just means buying more tickets.
2. See the classics — and the new icons.
It’s a rite of passage: Wicked,The Phantom of the Opera, and Les Misérables. But don’t stop there — 2025 is buzzing with modern classics like Hadestown and stunning revivals such as Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club.
3. Get unreasonably annoyed at movie musical casting.
We won’t name names (…you know who you are), but sometimes Hollywood just doesn’t get it.
4. Learn to decode inside theatre references.
It’s practically a second language.
5. Find your tribe of fellow thespians.
You’ll need people to see shows with, swap cast-change gossip, or cry with when your favourite performer leaves.
6. Dive into amateur dramatics.
Whether it’s acting, props, costumes, or tech — nothing beats being part of the magic yourself.
7. See one show at least three times.
For me, it’s Wicked. For you, it could be anything — but trust me, it only gets better with repeat visits.
8. Visit the Phoenix Arts Club.
Grab a latte under a wall of signed posters and soak up the staginess.
9. Develop intense admiration for West End talent.
Whether it’s powerhouse vocalists, ingenious choreographers, or costume designers, you’ll quickly build your list of theatre icons.
10. When you fall in love with a musical, go all in.
Learn every lyric, quote it in daily conversation, and gush about it to friends who don’t really care. (They’ll learn to nod and smile.)
11. Sing all the parts.
Yes, that means Christine and the Phantom. Your shower is your stage.
12. (Re)discover the joy of cast albums.
Original Broadway Cast? West End Cast? London Revival? You’ll soon have them all on repeat.
13. Find the spot in your home where you can belt safely.
Because neighbours don’t always appreciate a full-volume “Defying Gravity” at 11 p.m.
14. Support your local theatres.
West End trips are magical, but your local stages will be where your love of theatre grows roots.
15. Be proud of your theatre trivia.
Yes, it’s “useless” that Elphaba’s name in Wicked comes from L. Frank Baum’s initials (L.F.B. → El-pha-ba). But that’s the stuff true thespians live for.