Musician looking for guidance on transition to theater

[DecemberDolphin]

Hope it is ok to post this. I am a local guitarist looking to gain more musical opportunities in theater. I have been doing live performance for many years but will be new to theater. I am hoping to get some auditions and am noticing that many casting calls are looking for a resume. Can any one share some guidance on the best way to format a resume that includes only local band experience ? (professionally, my day job has been as a teacher.) Any additional suggestions for a newbie making this transition would be most welcomed.

[trpguyy]

Are you looking to act in musicals, or play guitar [in the pit] for musicals?

[DecemberDolphin]

Not necessarily heavy on acting, but opportunities in which a guitarist has a role on the stage, ie; School of Rock, Rock of Ages, etc. Not opposed to pit work but enjoy the live on stage performance aspect very much.

[dramamama611]

I'm sure there IS hope, just not sure anyone here can help.  There aren't many roles like the OP is inquiring about currently running. 

[dannymajlak]

Every artist enjoy the high on stage for sure here. I think & agree for the fact that proper opportunities should be given to stage artists. 

[Ledaero]

DecemberDolphin said: "Not necessarily heavy on acting, but opportunities in which a guitarist has a role on the stage, ie; School of Rock, Rock of Ages, etc. Not opposed to pit work but enjoy the live on stage performance aspect very much."

It seems like the best thing you can try to do is to try and get into subbing for pits that play live on stage (Jagged Little Pill, Waitress, etc.). You need to get to know Broadway musicians, conductors, and music directors. Join the musicians union, AFM Local 802, and you can get access to these networks. There isn't a formal application process, it's 100% network and getting the right people to know that you're a guitarist that wants to play in pits. Do know that it's a very high caliber job and not something for the casual guitarist, and sight-reading/quick learning skills are essential.

[DooWahDiddy]

I made my living as a pit musician in New York for 12 years, and am happy to help you, but I too am confused about what you're looking for. It sounds like you're not interested in wearing black and being shoved under the stage (I say that tongue-in-cheek), but rather want to be playing guitar in the show and serve as one of the actors, is that right? If that's the case, then your options will be limited to the number of shows that require an actor/musician (Million Dollar Quartet, The Buddy Holly Story, etc). If I'm mistaken and you want to play in orchestra pits (and believe me, it can't be the kind of thing you're "not opposed to"; you either want to do it or you don't, because otherwise you'll be miserable), then I'll be happy to answer any specific questions you may have. Good luck!