Breaking into the performing arts can feel like trying to crack a secret code. And that’s where Leesa Csolak comes in. She’s a career consultant who speaks the truth about what it takes to succeed on stage and screen. Leesa has guided more than 600 performers to find their place in this challenging industry.
Her advice comes from years of hands-on experience, not theory or wishful thinking. What makes Leesa different is her honest approach to helping performers at every stage of their journey. Parents of talented kids find clarity through her “Professional Kids & Teens 101” program. Meanwhile, adult performers gain practical skills from her “Professional Biz 201” course. She doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges, but she doesn’t leave you hanging either. Instead, she offers clear steps you can actually follow to move your career forward.
We had the opportunity to chat with Leesa, and dive into questions you’ve probably asked yourself many times if you’re looking to pursue a career in entertainment. How do I find an agent who won’t take advantage of me? Is it possible to follow my passion without going broke? What mistakes am I making that are holding me back? If you’ve ever felt lost or overwhelmed in your performing arts career, Leesa’s straightforward guidance might be exactly what you need right now.
Check out our full interview with Leesa below.
What specific experiences in your own career or behind-the-scenes work led you to become a career consultant, and at what moment did you realize you could make a significant impact by helping other performers navigate their professional journeys?
Leesa Csolak: Over the years, I’ve accumulated a wealth of experience, both as a performer and as a mother navigating the industry with my sons, who are successful actors, singers, and dancers. From managing their careers to working with clients directly, I quickly realized the need for more personalized and practical guidance in the performing arts world. I became deeply passionate about helping others avoid the mistakes I saw so many talented performers making, often due to lack of knowledge or direction.
I owned a large performing arts school for many years and the moment I realized I could make a significant impact was when I started to see my employees and clients consistently land representation and secure roles—knowing that my strategies and insights were truly helping them succeed.
With over 600 clients successfully launched in stage, film, and television, what’s the most common misconception you encounter about breaking into the performing arts industry?
Leesa Csolak: The most common misconception is that talent alone will guarantee success. Many aspiring performers think if they’re just good enough, someone will notice them. But the reality is that the industry is competitive, and talent must be paired with professionalism, business savvy, and the right network.
It’s not just about being talented; it’s about knowing how to present yourself, network effectively, navigate auditions, and build a sustainable career.
How has the performing arts industry changed since you first started consulting, and what advice do you give today that might have been different 10-15 years ago?
Leesa Csolak: The industry has become more digital and global, with self-tapes, social media presence, and online casting platforms playing a huge role. This has opened up more opportunities but also made the industry more crowded.
Today, I emphasize the importance of managing your online presence and understanding the business side of the industry—something I didn’t focus when I first started. My advice is now much more comprehensive, with a focus on digital branding and proactive career management.
Can you share a transformative success story that epitomizes the impact of your mentorship and strategic career guidance?
Leesa Csolak: One story that stands out is an adult triple threat actor, singer, dancer who came to me after years of struggling to get connected and noticed. With no representation, she had been doing everything on her own but wasn’t landing the right auditions. After working together adding top world class training, honing networking skills, refining self-presentation, updating self tape auditions, and building a portfolio that sits in the top 1-3% of what casting and agents and managers see, I helped her secure top representation.
Not long after, she booked a Broadway show which was her dream since she was a young teen performer. Her career trajectory completely changed, and it was incredibly rewarding to see her confidence and success grow.
What are the top three non-negotiable skills or qualities that performers must develop to stand out in today’s competitive landscape?
Leesa Csolak: Professionalism: This encompasses punctuality, respect, communication, and a strong work ethic. Being professional in all interactions sets you apart. Adaptability: The industry is constantly evolving, and successful performers can quickly adapt to new trends and technologies. Networking: Building relationships is crucial—whether it’s with agents, fellow performers, or casting directors. You can’t do it alone.
Many aspiring performers struggle with balancing creative passion and professional stability. What practical strategies do you recommend for navigating this challenge?
Leesa Csolak: It’s essential to set clear boundaries between your creative and professional lives. I recommend scheduling time for auditions, training, and creative work while also setting aside time to focus on the business side—building relationships, handling finances, and setting long-term goals. It’s all about finding balance so neither your artistry nor your stability is sacrificed.
Time management and a solid support system can make a huge difference. This is how I handled things with my own sons when they were minors performing on Broadway, in films and on television, commercials and more. We kept the business side, creative and training side and our family life time separate.
How do you help performers identify legitimate representation and avoid potential industry pitfalls?
Leesa Csolak: I guide performers to research agents and managers thoroughly, ensuring they have a reputable track record and a clear understanding of the performer’s goals. I also teach them how to spot red flags, like upfront fees or agents who promise too much too quickly. I emphasize the importance of a mutual relationship—representation should be a partnership, not a one-sided transaction.
In your experience, what separates successful performers from those who struggle to gain traction in the industry?
Leesa Csolak: Successful performers understand the importance of both talent and business acumen. They are proactive in their careers, consistently honing their skills, networking, and staying current with industry trends. They also manage their expectations and handle rejection with grace. Those who struggle often lack the business skills or the perseverance to stay the course during tough times.
For parents considering supporting their child’s performing arts aspirations, what initial steps would you recommend?
Start by educating yourself about the industry. It’s crucial to understand what the process involves, from training to representation, before you dive in. Then, assess your child’s genuine passion and talent and make sure they’re ready to commit.
I always recommend starting with a solid foundation—finding reputable training programs and working with professionals who can guide you through the early stages of the process. My online courses have become the groundwork for many new to the industry giving them the insight and tools necessary to navigate all aspects successfully.
The performing arts can be an emotionally challenging field. How do you help your clients build resilience and maintain mental well-being?
Leesa Csolak: I help clients manage expectations and develop strategies for dealing with rejection and setbacks. It’s vital to cultivate a growth mindset and remind them that failure is part of the journey. I also encourage a balance between work and self-care—taking time to recharge emotionally and mentally. Resilience comes from learning how to persevere while also caring for oneself.
What emerging trends in film, television, and stage production should performers be paying attention to right now?
Leesa Csolak: There’s a significant shift towards digital and streaming platforms, which has opened up more opportunities for actors and performers in various genres, including voice-over and digital media. Performers should also be aware of the rise in diverse and inclusive casting, which is a great opportunity for performers of all backgrounds. Virtual and hybrid performances are also emerging trends that can impact how performers train and audition.
For adult performers considering a career pivot or late-stage entry into performing arts, what unique advice would you offer?
Leesa Csolak: Don’t let age or past career experiences hold you back. Many adult performers are successful later in their careers because they bring valuable life experiences to the table. My advice is to focus on training, networking, and being realistic about the type of roles or projects you’ll target. It’s never too late to start, but you do need a clear strategy. My online course for adult performers gives comprehensive guidelines and detailed checklists to be sure adults align themselves with the ‘now’ of the industry.
If you could give one piece of universal advice to every aspiring performer, regardless of age or experience level, what would it be?
Leesa Csolak: Stay committed to both your craft and the business side of the industry. Talent alone isn’t enough. You need to understand how the industry works, be proactive in your career, and always keep learning and growing.
Lastly, is there a specific mantra, quote, or affirmation that you hold close to your heart?
Leesa Csolak: “Success is where preparation and opportunity meet.” This resonates deeply with me because I believe success in the performing arts is a result of constant preparation and being ready when the right opportunity comes your way.
And also Rita Pierson’s quote, ‘Every child needs a champion: an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connections and insists they become the best they can possibly be.’
Photos Cred: Kurt Csolak, Solarc Productions NYC
Emily Sprinkle, also known as Emma Loggins, is a designer, marketer, blogger, and speaker. She is the Editor-In-Chief for Women's Business Daily where she pulls from her experience as the CEO and Director of Strategy for Excite Creative Studios, where she specializes in web development, UI/UX design, social media marketing, and overall strategy for her clients.
Emily has also written for CNN, Autotrader, The Guardian, and is also the Editor-In-Chief for the geek lifestyle site FanBolt.com
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