What will I do?
People who work in theater work either on the stage or behind the scenes. There are many different behind the scenes jobs: costuming, play writing, lighting, sound, directing, or management.
Some people with theater degrees work in education, teaching others about acting. Theater majors can also work in theme parks, on cruise ships, or at historical re-enactment sites. People can also work behind the scenes at local or regional theaters, concert halls, or night clubs doing sound and lighting for concerts and other performances.
What classes will I take?
Schools usually offer two different tracks for theater: performance or technology.
If you specialize in performance, you will study acting.
If you specialize in technology, you can learn the technical aspects of theater such as sound and lighting, costumes and make-up. With both tracks you can also study theater appreciation and the history of theater.
What skills do I need to start school?
If you plan to study acting, you’ll need to be comfortable talking in front of people.
You’ll need to have good verbal and written communications skills. You will need to work well as part of a team.
If you want to go into the technical aspects of theater, you can’t be afraid of heights. You may have to walk high above the stage to hang lights.
What can I do with an associate’s degree?
Associate’s degrees prepare you to transfer to a 4-year school. In most places, actors and stagehands in community theater are not paid. You may be able to get a job working in a community or regional theater in the ticket office or in educational roles.
What can I do with a bachelor’s degree?
It all depends on what part of the country that you live in. In most places, actors and stagehands in community theater are not paid. You may be able to get a job working in a community or regional theater in the ticket office or in educational roles.
What are some challenges?
it may be easier to find jobs in some parts of the country than in others
Depending on where you live, theater jobs can be hard to find. The pay can be very low. The hours can be erratic. You may need to relocate to a large city.
How easy will it be to get a job?
It depends where you live. Overall, the field is growing faster than other occupations.
