You may be able to audition for a Broadway show if you live in a major city which is hosting auditions, but if you really want to make it on Broadway, you should live in New York.  You will be more available to your agent and have many more auditions available to you.  New York can be very expensive.  Be sure that you have savings to last you for several months once you arrive.  The average monthly rent on a 900 square foot unit in New York City is  $2815.  Add utilities and the higher cost of food, and you can plan on needing at least $3500 per month. Many people live on the outskirts of the city in Queens or Brooklyn, and some even live across the river in New Jersey.  These can be cheaper options than living in Manhattan, and the public transit system makes the commute quick, easy and cheap. Actor’s Equity Association, also referred to as Equity and AEA, is a union for actors in America.  It’s purpose is to provide protection for the professional actor and enforce guidelines regarding pay, breaks, insurance and other professional needs.  On the other hand, many professional theater companies will only use Equity actors, especially in leading roles, as a way to weed out actors with less experience.  In order to join you must first be eligible.  You may be able to join if you are cast in a production under an Equity contract. You may be allowed to join Equity if you are a member of one of their sister unions, SAG-AFTRA, AGMA, AGVA, or GIAA.  You must have been a member for at least a year, remain in good standing and have performed a significant role under their jurisdiction. You can register as an Equity Membership Candidate, or EMC, to earn credit toward membership by working at an Equity theater.  The cost to register is $100, and you must work at least 50 weeks in an Equity house to become eligible to apply for membership. Broadway stages often only work with talent agencies when they are looking to cast important roles for a Broadway show.  Using a talent agent helps streamline their process, since the agent will knows their actors and can submit only the people who they know could fit the role.  Having a talent agent is going to be necessary to getting in the door of a Broadway audition if you want a lead role.  Submit your headshot and resume to agents in New York City along with a cover letter. Ask other actors which agent they use and if you can use that actor as a reference in your cover letter. Invite agents to come see you perform when you are in a show. Your performance onstage is very important, but your behavior off-stage is just as important if not more important.  Broadway professionals and casting agents all work in the same circles.  It is likely that someone who has not worked with you will consult others asking about their experience working with you before they offer you a role.  Protect your reputation by being on time, following direction, and being respectful to everyone on the cast and crew. Emotions are a large part of theatrical work.  Do your best to keep the emotions in the performance and stay logical and collected when you are dealing with others off-stage.
Make the move to New York City. Join Actor’s Equity Association. Acquire a talent agent. Work hard and get along with your directors and fellow actors.