What's it like being a theatre major?

Hi Ashley,

If you are considering majoring in Theatre, I strongly suggest that you participate in a local production, if you have not already done so. Check out nearby community theatre programs and ask how you could volunteer your services. There are several options for those with little to no experience such as ushering and ticket sales. If you have any type of artistic skills, consider helping out in the costume or scenic shop. And, of course ask about the next auditions...

While I loved my experience, many find that it's a lot harder than they expected and the hours can become very long and draining. You truly have to have the passion and drive to succeed as a major. That being said, you may find something else that you love even more and decide on another major. That does not mean that you still can't participate in your theatre program. We had several actors and techies that were not majors or minors in many of our productions.

Take your time and find what works for you. Once you land on a major there will still be plenty of room for other activities such as arts, sports and internships.

To give you an idea of a typical day as a theatre major here's one scenario:

• morning classes (starting around 8-10am)
• lunch break
• afternoon classes
• break
• on campus job
• dinner break
• rehearsal/ tech duty (usually runs 7-11pm)

It's not an easy schedule. You need to make time for studying, rest and taking care of yourself.

Best of luck to you!

Hi Ashley,

Theater is an art. The theater students have a love for drama, acting, and the production of theater in general. Not all majors need to be drawn toward acting, however. There are many other aspects of theater in which to specialize: lighting, staging, writing, for instance.

The required and elective courses you would take for Theatre majors vary considerably among institutions. Courses are listed here that are illustrative of the breadth of topics you are likely to experience were you to major in this field.

Acting
Art
Choreography
Dance
Design
Directing
History of the Theater
Management
Oral Interpretation
Physical Expression: Voice and Movement
Speech
Stagecraft
Survey of Dramatic Literature
Survey of Film History
Voice

Skills You Acquire With this Major
Theatre Arts majors develop great skills that are applicable to a wide variety of careers. These skills include:

Performance and presentation skills
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Ability to work under pressure
Project management skills
Leadership skills
Ability to work individually and collaboratively
Creative problem-solving skills
Listening, clarifying, questioning and responding skills
Critical thinking skills

In: https://www.mymajors.com/college-majors/theatre/

Watch a video about "What Can I Do With a Major In Theatre Arts" on:

https://cla.umn.edu/wcidwami/theatre-arts

Have a good choice!