Expert: Wanda Reinholdt - 4/2/2010

Question
Hi Wanda,

I am a 24 year old classically trained singer wanting to get a job as a singer on a cruise ship. I have some background in musical theatre, but not much. What do I need to do to get a singing job on a cruise ship? How competitive is it? How does the audition process work? Where do I look to find out about auditions? What songs are appropriate for auditioning (is it more pop or is traditional musical theatre rep accepted)? With a degree in voice, not much of a resume, a more classical background and no formal dance training, do I stand a chance? I really appreciate your advice!

Answer
Hi there, Elizabeth.  And thanks for writing.

I am not familiar with how to get work on cruise ships.  However, I have some ideas that might help:

1.  Get a list of all of the cruise lines that exist and their phone numbers and websites.  Or at least start with 5-10 of them.
2.  Go to their website to see if there are jobs listed on their websites for singers.  If not, give them a call and ask.

More than likely, auditions are posted and there will be indications of what they want for an audition.  

The other way to get auditions for cruise ships is to get an agent and tell your agent of your interest.  

Also, do some singing in other places so that you have a resume to show forth.  Find places around where you live to sing and to work.  That will provide you with references and also some experience.

If you prepare well, you should have a chance.  You have training and, therefore, you should be able to do well.  

Does that help you?  At least it can get you started.

Wanda