Enroll in a university or college program that offers degrees in musical theater. Audition for choir groups, operas and musical theater productions offered by your educational institution or home town. Contact local performers or university theater arts departments and ask for recommendations for singing, dancing and acting coaches. You can also contact and join organizations like the National Association of Teachers of Singing for musical theater auditions and opportunities.
Take courses in music theater, dance, singing, acting and stage production at a college or through programs offered by your local community center. Hobbyists can consult with local performing arts institutions or performers for suggestions on instruction/performing opportunities and resources.
Prepare a portfolio of songs to sing for your auditions. These songs should showcase your diversity and highlight your singing strengths. Be prepared to act and dance in the style required by any parts you will be auditioning for.
Make friends with colleagues in your music theater program or from shows you do. These connections can help you later in life when these friends become professional musicians, producers, directors and actors.
Perform as often as possible to gain exposure and experience. Take as many acting, singing and dance lessons as you can afford.
Aspiring professionals should go to one of the main centers for musical theater. New York is a great place to gain exposure once you have developed a resume and have performance experience. California, especially Los Angeles, also provides opportunities for musical performers. If you don't want to make a move to the big city, try to get established in a smaller city that provides musical theater opportunities.