If you’ve ever gotten pulled into a Reel of a performer switching between their “mic on/mic off” voice or documenting a chaotic Broadway backstage moment, odds are you’ve seen JJ Niemann in action. The “Hamilton” and “Back to the Future” actor has amassed more than 370,000 Instagram followers by sharing high-energy, behind-the-scenes content that feels both authentic and uniquely theatrical.
His success isn’t luck, it’s strategy: He shows his process, sticks to a niche, leverages trends, and builds a community that keeps coming back. If you’re wondering how to get more followers on Instagram, this guide (with examples from Niemann) breaks down 13 actionable, sustainable ways to do just that.
1. Optimize your profile and bio.
Before anyone follows you, they need to understand who you are. A well-structured Instagram profile is like your digital business card, so make sure to include:
- Profile pic: Use a clear headshot that matches your casting materials.
- Username: Keep it simple and searchable.
- Bio: Write a one-line pitch that reflects your performer identity. Niemann’s, for instance, is “Chaotic but like in a good way.” It can help to add niche keywords like “actor,” “dancer,” or “voiceover” to your bio, since these are searchable within the app.
- Link: Use Linktree to link to your Backstage profile, demo reel, or professional site.
2. Develop a signature content style.
Consistency (in terms of cohesion, not repetition) wins on Instagram, so pick a lane: behind-the-scenes snippets, day-in-the-life stories, actor humor, vocal tips, or whatever inspires you. Use this to build a recognizable aesthetic. Niemann’s style, for instance, blends high-energy dance and comedy with insider Broadway content. His audience knows what to expect, which keeps them coming back.
3. Post high-quality storytelling content.
Reels are now Instagram’s primary growth tool, and storytelling drives their success. Instead of random clips, think in arcs: setup, reveal, and reaction. Niemann’s famous “mic on/mic off” Reels do this brilliantly, walking viewers from serious rehearsal mode into playful performer antics.
What are Instagram Reels and Why Do They Matter?4. Leverage all of Instagram’s features.
Reels might drive reach, but other features deepen engagement:
- Stories: Show daily life, polls, Q&As, and backstage moments.
- Guides: Curate lists such as “top monologues,” “audition tips,” or “favorite theaters.”
- Highlights: Save key Stories in categories like “Training,” “Shows,” or “Reels.”
5. Use hashtags and geotags strategically.
Hashtags aren’t dead—they’re just smarter now. So don’t be outdated by copy-pasting the same 30 hashtags. Instead, rotate and test what gets you seen.
- Combine broad tags (#actorlife, #performer) with niche tags (#BroadwayTok).
- Use geotags to anchor your content in physical spaces like “Pearl Studios NYC,” “Ripley-Grier Studios,” or “The Muny” (if you’re one of the lucky few who get to work there!).
6. Engage authentically with your community.
The Instagram algorithm and your followers appreciate interaction, so be sure to:
- Respond to DMs and comments.
- Leave thoughtful replies on other creators’ posts (especially casting-related ones).
- Use “Add Yours” Stories and duet or remix others’ Reels.
Be human—it works! Just look to Niemann, who often answers comments with inside jokes, behind-the-scenes details, and followups, which builds deeper fan loyalty. It can help to think of the comment section as your encore. Reply to comments, tag collaborators, answer DMs thoughtfully, and create opportunities for your followers to interact—like polls, Q&As, or duet/remix prompts.
7. Collaborate with other creators.
Partnerships expose you to new audiences and can be a lot of fun.
Niemann’s rise was helped by cross-platform collaborations, such as his standout participation in “Ratatouille: The TikTok Musical.” Even a simple remix or guest appearance in a Reel can double your reach, so connect with fellow performers with similar audiences and pitch a concept. Keep it short, clear, and fun.
How to Become Instagram Famous8. Analyze your metrics and adapt.
Data matters, especially if you want to grow strategically. Use Instagram Insights to track:
- Follower demographics (age, location)
- Best posting times
- Top-performing content by reach and engagement
- Reels vs. static posts performance
Use these analytics to inform your next round of content, shifting strategies as needed.
9. Promote your profile beyond Instagram.
Think of your Instagram handle as part of your personal brand and promote it in the following ways:
- Add it to your Backstage profile.
- Include it on résumés, business cards, and press kits.
- Mention it in interviews, bios, or class directories.
- Post about it on other platforms like TikTok, YouTube Shorts, or Threads. If you’re making Reels, consider how they can be repurposed for those same platforms. A short audition diary might work great as a Reel, while a longer version could become a YouTube vlog.
Your social profile can be part of the package when submitting to casting calls.
10. Maintain consistency without burning out.
Every successful content creator posts regularly but not obsessively. Consider:
- Batch-creating content during show downtime
- Using saved drafts and notes
- Letting loose—many Reels are low-lift but high-energy
You don’t need to post daily—three to five times per week is ideal. Focus on value and voice, not perfection.
Also, unfollow accounts that make you feel “less than.” Protect your mindset while you build.
11. Tell a compelling story every time you post.
People follow creators who make them feel something. A clear story structure holds attention longer and increases shares.
Your content doesn’t have to be dramatic to tell a story, but it should always take your viewer somewhere. Whether it’s a quick behind-the-scenes look at your rehearsal, a “Get Ready With Me” before an audition, or a voiceover of what it’s really like to prep for tech week, think in terms of story arcs: setup, reveal, and reaction.
12. Use trends with intention.
Jumping on trends can feel like a shortcut, but the real value comes when you use them in a way that fits your brand. Look for trending audio, visual formats, or challenges that you can customize to reflect your life as an actor or creator. When you align these with your niche, you increase your chances of hitting both new and relevant audiences.
13. Own your niche and stick with it.
Whether you’re a musical theater performer, a commercial actor, or a triple-threat content creator, define your lane and show up consistently in that space. Your followers will start to associate your account with specific value, whether that’s audition prep tips, vocal warmups, or backstage humor. That way, you’ll attract followers who are genuinely interested in what you offer.
If you’re trying to figure out how to gain followers on Instagram as a performer, skip the shortcuts and seek to understand how real connection, community, and content build lasting success. Pick one or two of the strategies listed here and test them this week. Then check your Insights, adjust, and repeat. Now get posting!
