I have seen annual performances in the school. There are only Chinese dramas and English dramas. Does drama have only two types?

Our school dramas are the traditional ones. Writing a script, then actors perform on the stage. Drama has more than two types. There are a lot of different forms. Musicals are also a type of drama. Actors say something and sing songs which are related to the story, their feelings and attitudes and what they are thinking about. Apart from that, there are TV dramas such as Come Home Love: Lo And Behold produced by TVB, and Alpha Maria produced by RTHK. As long as there is a storyline and actors, the work can be defined as drama.

What personality is required if I want to become a drama performer?

No matter which types of drama performer you are, you should be compatible and humble. You have to work with others and follow the directors’ instructions. You need some creativity. After all, a good drama can be successful if the cast act creatively. People can easily step into the performers shoes to enjoy the whole drama.

How can a drama performer make a living?

A drama performer has more than one job. He or she sometimes works as a drama teacher in a primary school or a secondary school. They usually works as a performer in the morning or at night and work as a teacher in the afternoon. Drama performers sometimes have to work overnight so they lack sleep.

What should I study if I want to be a drama performer?

You have to study at HKAPA (Hong Kong Academy of Arts and Performance). If you are not interested in such drama programs provided by the HKAPA, you can study overseas. Many countries offer plentiful programs and courses about drama. After studying for a few years, you may consider returning to Hong Kong to begin your career.

How can repertory companies run their business?

They usually have a page on social media. They use Facebook to target their main audience. If a page is set up, Facebook will make a weekly report which shows which age group browse the page a lot. It will be easier for them to set the price according to the report.

Life may be as hard being a drama performer. You have to rush through different places in one day. If you have a passion to be a drama performer, why don’t you have a try? Although there many tough things, you can overcome them one day!

 

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