How to Become a Hair Stylist for Broadway Productions
It takes hundreds of dedicated people to make a Broadway production come together, from the actors and actresses to the set crew to the hair stylists. Behind the most elaborate of up-dos and the most simplistic of styles in a performance is a professional hair stylist. Just like the actors in a Broadway performance, Broadway hair stylists started out with a love for styling hair and worked their way to the top.
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Instructions
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Enroll in a cosmetology program. High school students may have the option for cosmetology training at a vocational or technical school, but you will most likely have to enroll at a beauty or cosmetology school. Completing the program usually takes between 10 and 18 months. You must complete 1,500 hours of training to be eligible to take the licensing exam.
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Take the cosmetology licensing exam, which will test your basic knowledge of hair styling and maintenance, as well as make-up artistry and nail care. Having your cosmetology license will allow you to work in any salon.
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Complete a cosmetology apprenticeship program; this usually takes 24 months to complete. You will work with a senior stylist to hone and perfect your hair styling skills and develop your own sense of style and finesse. The stylist you work with will be an invaluable reference for you as you continue your journey to becoming a Broadway hair stylist.
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Establish yourself as a professional hair stylist by working in a hair salon. The more knowledge and experience you gain, the more valuable you will be as a Broadway stylist. Work in a salon for at least two years to gain the necessary experience and set of skills.
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Volunteer with local theater companies, offering your services as a stylist. Theater performances often call for more dramatic hairstyles than everyday life situations; working with actors, actresses and directors will prepare you for the fast-paced work you will face in a Broadway hair and makeup room.
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Assemble a portfolio of your work, particularly work you have done with theater companies. Head shots of the various hair styles and looks you have created will prove that you have the experience and skills necessary to be a Broadway hair stylist.
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Scour job publications, such as "Back Stage," for new job openings for stylists in Broadway productions; submit your resume, cover letter and portfolio of work. Keep in mind that backstage employees are often card-carrying union members, and you may be required to join to secure the job.
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