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Am I being unrealistic in believing I can have a successful career in theater without having to be an actress?

Because there are so many things about theater that I love, I'm not convinced my career will be acting. It's possible that I may end up in costume design or playwriting. #theater

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Angela Theresa’s Answer

You have a much better chance if you do technical aspects of theatre! Costume Design, Stage Managing or Set Design.


Of course, most theatre professions are harder to make a lot of money doing. Acting is probably the hardest to be paid for doing.


Playwrighting is also very competitive and not as lucrative. Now, Producing can be good; or even becoming a Casting Director or Agent.


You are better off studying business; which will help you in all areas. Probably more money in television and film costuming, producing or writing. All competitive, nevertheless.


You are more realistic to focus on the technical side of theatre. "They always pay the crew."


Actors are often the only ones not paid.
Thank you comment icon I agree with Angela. Many people find stage management, casting or production to be the best of both worlds -- you get to work in theater on amazing projects, but the work is much more stable and well-paying. Having experience behind the scenes can also help you as an actor. Whenever I'm on a production team for a play, I usually watch actors audition. I always learn something about how to audition better when I watch a hundred other people do it. Good luck! Dan Kurtz
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Jeanne’s Answer

Five years have passed since you posted your question and I hope you have had success in your theatrical journey. I was a theatre major in college and worked both onstage as a dancer and actress as well as behind the scenes as an educator, choreographer and director. My theatre career has assisted me in all aspects of my many careers as well as my personal life. I was able to put my theatrical training and experiences to work as a drama teacher in two different private schools, in my work with local radio and television studios, and in my career as an educator. For 21 years, I owned my own Performing Arts Center which offered classes in dance, musical theater, acting, piano and vocal instruction.

In between, I was able to use my theatre experiences in my many jobs in sales and marketing.
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Linda’s Answer

Mallory, love your name.

You are so right about theater and all of the parts and pieces that make up a theater and company. My cousin has a master's in theater and opened a playhouse after graduation. I am an interior designer have been since birth lol any way my cousin is two years older and we were close growing up . We were in school close to the same time and she would solicit me for create help with her plays she is the most brilliant director and I would be assistant director, costume designer, and set designer . I did about 12 plays with her and had the time of my life. So much work but working with a group of creative people is so rewarding. My cousin was always trying to get me to act but I am a behind the scenes person and loved my participation and could clearly see a career in costumes and with a little more stage knowledge set design. You have all the tools to pursue either one and the network to begin. If this is your passion put one foot in front of the other and make your dreams come true. Break a leg.
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