Chattanooga, TN – For students pursuing careers in the performing arts, the annual Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC) represents a crucial bridge between academic training and professional opportunity. This year, eleven students from Maryville College (MC), including four seniors, traveled to the Chattanooga Convention Center to participate in the multi-day event, seeking internships, jobs, and valuable networking connections. The conference, a cornerstone for aspiring theatre professionals in the region, offers a unique platform for students to showcase their talents and explore a wide range of career paths.
SETC isn’t simply a student conference. it’s a convergence of the entire theatrical ecosystem. As Andy Vaught, Assistant Professor of Theatre at MC, explained, the event draws participants from undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as professional companies like Dollywood and regional theatres actively seeking to fill positions. The Southeastern Theatre Conference aims to connect emerging talent with established organizations, fostering a pipeline of skilled professionals for the industry.
Navigating the Job Fair and Audition Process
Students attending SETC have two primary avenues for securing opportunities: the audition process and the job fair. Kat Wilson, a sophomore at MC, opted for the latter. “You’ll see two types of opportunities as a student that you can be provided with,” Wilson said. “You can do the audition process, but I did the job fair that’s provided by SETC, which is when professionals from across the country arrive in and offer positions for you to apply for.” The job fair allows students to directly engage with representatives from various theatre companies, theme parks, and cruise lines, handing over resumes and participating in on-the-spot interviews.
For those pursuing performance roles, the audition process requires submitting a 60-second monologue in advance. Successful applicants then perform their piece before a panel of recruiters, potentially leading to callbacks for positions at theatres, on cruise ships, and at theme parks. This intensive process provides invaluable experience in auditioning under pressure and receiving direct feedback from industry professionals. Summer stock opportunities, in particular, are a popular stepping stone for students, offering a speedy-paced environment to build a professional reputation.
From Intimidation to Confidence: The Value of Repeated Exposure
The sheer scale of SETC – with the potential to interview with up to 50 companies – can be daunting for students. Wilson acknowledged the initial intimidation factor. “It’s a little bit intimidating to have to go up to people for interviews and be like, ‘Hey, this is me. I’d like to apply for this job.’” However, she emphasized that even unsuccessful interviews are valuable learning experiences, helping students refine their interview skills and build confidence.
Ian Bailey, a graduating senior at MC, echoed this sentiment, noting that repeated attendance at SETC significantly reduces anxiety. “A lot of the nervousness has gone away by the third time,” Bailey said. “You get your feet under you and start to feel more confident, especially in interviews. You also get a better idea of what seminars look like and which ones might actually interest you.” Bailey highlighted how the conference has broadened his career prospects, making eight-month to year-long apprenticeships a viable option.
Success Stories: Internships and Contracts Across the Country
The benefits of attending SETC are not merely theoretical. Many MC students have successfully leveraged the conference to secure both summer and full-time positions. Bailey shared his own experiences, detailing internships secured through past SETC events that took him to Iowa and Nebraska. “I’ve been able to work in different theatres, meet a variety of people and work on a vast array of shows, from opera in Rep at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center to large-scale Disney Princess productions.”
Eden Carnes, a junior, recently received and accepted a summer position as the wig shop supervisor and designer at the Brevard Music Center, a role she attributes directly to her participation in SETC. This demonstrates the direct impact the conference can have on a student’s career trajectory.
Beyond Networking: Workshops and Skill Development
While job opportunities are a major draw, SETC also offers a robust program of workshops covering various aspects of theatre, including playwriting, acting, and technical theatre. These workshops provide students with opportunities to hone their skills, learn new techniques, and stay abreast of current trends in the industry. Vaught noted the conference’s comprehensive nature, catering to a diverse range of theatrical disciplines.
The experience extends beyond formal workshops. The conference environment itself fosters a sense of community and collaboration, allowing students to learn from their peers and established professionals. This informal networking can be just as valuable as the structured learning opportunities.
As Maryville College students prepare for the next steps in their theatrical journeys, the connections and experiences gained at SETC will undoubtedly prove invaluable. The conference continues to serve as a vital resource for aspiring theatre professionals, bridging the gap between education and a fulfilling career in the arts. The next SETC conference is scheduled for February 2025, offering another opportunity for students to connect with the industry and pursue their passions.
What are your thoughts on the importance of industry conferences for students? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below.
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