My agent friend and others point out that it will probably take at least two trips to Germany to find a job. The first just to start to learn how the system works, from, including where and when to practice and how auditions work, to what it’s like to live there-where to shop and the like. The second time to be able to make effective use of your time and resources, as well as simply being available when something appropriate arises.
I’ve said it, and Agents say it unequivocably, and it only makes sense: ” YOU HAVE TO LEARN TO SPEAK GERMAN. Whether its Zauberflöte or operette or even My Fair Lady, there will be dialogue and you can’t make a hash of it. Imagine a heavily accented German performing Sweeny Todd or Hamilton in your local theater..Furthermore ZAV and most theaters will run their auditions in German. You have to be able to speak and understand their language. So one of the best things you can do with your time is study the language, not just in school but with German friends and acquaintances in bars, restaurants, etc.