Should I give up on my dream to perform in the West End and look for a ‘real job’?

APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady answers your careers questions, plus try our money-saving tips.

Here she gives advice to a reader whose dream is to perform in the West End but is worried opportunities are running out.

Q) It’s my dream to perform in the West End, and while I’ve been in a few amateur productions and I get paid to sing in local pubs regularly, I can’t seem to get the professional break I need.

I never went to stage school and I find it hard to compete. I’m only 23, but I already feel like the opportunities are running out for me and I’ve had to take on some retail work to make ends meet.

Should I give up on my dream and look for a “real job”?

A) It’s inspiring to hear you have a dream and a clear sense of what you want to achieve.

Don’t let setbacks deter you – they are all part of your journey to success.

I understand how discouraging it can be when facing challenges, especially in a competitive field like theatre and entertainment.

However, even the most successful people in the industry faced numerous rejections before landing their breakthrough roles.

Performing in local pubs and participating in amateur productions are significant milestones on your path to success, so be proud of your achievements.

Your concerns about not attending stage school shouldn’t diminish your confidence in your talent and dedication, but if you think it might help, you could research workshops, classes or private lessons to enhance your skills further, plus they can be great places to network.

Supporting yourself with retail work is a sensible decision to avoid getting into debt, and many performers do the same early in their careers.

You’re still young and have plenty of time – opportunities are definitely not limited by age.

Stay focused and determined, and I look forward to seeing you perform in the West End one day!

• Got a careers question for Karren? Email bossingit@fabulousmag.co.uk.