If your community has a local theater, this can be an excellent way to get involved in different productions throughout the year. Depending on how well funded the theater is and how seriously they take their work, small theater productions can be a step up from college theater. Joining a local theater group can help you better understand your competition, make important connections, sharpen your resume, and add to your experience. Additionally, many talent scouts will visit small local theaters to cast for indie roles or other non-blockbuster films.