5 answers
Elizabeth
Student
Mequon, Wisconsin
3
Questions
Asked
1588 views
What is a realistic career I could choose if I enjoy theater and acting?
Hey! I am in 9th grade and I am thinking about what careers interest me so I can start taking classes that apply to what I want to do, I am interested in theater and acting. What is a realistic career I could choose if I enjoy theater and acting?
Login to comment
5 answers
Megan McCoy
Career Coach
162
Answers
Lakeland, Florida
Updated
Megan’s Answer
Hi Elizabeth,
There are many things you can do with theatre and acting.
You could be a drama teacher
You could work on a cruise line as a theatre performer
You could work at a theme park like Disney or Universal as a performer
You could move somewhere like Atlanta, New York or LA to be an actor
You could work for a theatre company
Growing up I always wanted to be an actor and loved theatre too. I realized as I got older that I could never do a big move or deal with the unpredictable nature of the career. However, there are many awesome opportunities out there, and if it is what you really want to do I encourage you to live your dream.
I found a communication major to fit nicely with my enjoyment of acting. I actually took several theatre courses because they fell within the communications program. It is a lot about public speaking. As an actor, you are comfortable performing in front of others so speaking in front of others is very similar.
In high school, I would continue to do theatre at school or locally. Look into theatre summer camps that you can attend- some may be offered at colleges near you where you can spend a week on campus and see what college dorm life is like. Take a public speaking class or drama class.
I would suggest looking at the Disney College Program- you can be a character performer or a character performer attendant as an intern. They also offer Disney Professional internships which are more intense internships focusing on a certain interest. These could be helpful to you in college.
I hope this helps!
There are many things you can do with theatre and acting.
You could be a drama teacher
You could work on a cruise line as a theatre performer
You could work at a theme park like Disney or Universal as a performer
You could move somewhere like Atlanta, New York or LA to be an actor
You could work for a theatre company
Growing up I always wanted to be an actor and loved theatre too. I realized as I got older that I could never do a big move or deal with the unpredictable nature of the career. However, there are many awesome opportunities out there, and if it is what you really want to do I encourage you to live your dream.
I found a communication major to fit nicely with my enjoyment of acting. I actually took several theatre courses because they fell within the communications program. It is a lot about public speaking. As an actor, you are comfortable performing in front of others so speaking in front of others is very similar.
In high school, I would continue to do theatre at school or locally. Look into theatre summer camps that you can attend- some may be offered at colleges near you where you can spend a week on campus and see what college dorm life is like. Take a public speaking class or drama class.
I would suggest looking at the Disney College Program- you can be a character performer or a character performer attendant as an intern. They also offer Disney Professional internships which are more intense internships focusing on a certain interest. These could be helpful to you in college.
I hope this helps!
Thank you so much! Your answer was very helpful and is very appreciated!!
Elizabeth
Grant Brecheisen
Producer, Actor, Director
2
Answers
Weston, Florida
Updated
Grant’s Answer
I would suggest to keep performing, but also start to get involved with the other aspects of theatre. If your school offers theatre classes and/or shows, get involved in the other aspects of putting their shows on. For example, volunteer yourself for any need that your director or teacher would like help on. Doing so can help you identify what you are you good at and what you are not good at. More importantly, it will allow you to get experience on the things you might be not experienced.
Thank you for the advice! I'll try it!
Elizabeth
Ricardo Islas
producer
26
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Ricardo’s Answer
In addition to careers directly linked to the fields you mentioned, you might consider exploring alternative options that could bring you closer to your goal from a unique perspective. For instance, pursuing a career in Communications may lead to working behind the scenes in a theater or joining a public relations team for a company. Once you're in such positions, you can broaden your horizons and transition into your desired field, sometimes bypassing the usual barriers that others might encounter. Picture yourself not having to audition, but instead being part of the production team. Harrison Ford, for example, was a carpenter building sets when he landed the role of Han Solo in Star Wars. Plus, you can earn money while pursuing your passion on the side until you achieve your goal.
Thanks for the advice! I've never thought about that before and I kinda like it!
Elizabeth
Nikki Harmon
Playwright
3
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Nikki’s Answer
Theatre has many areas that lots of people don't even know about. I've been working in theatre for 60 years starting as a stage manger/lighting designer, and prop designer, stitcher, set builder, and sound tech, and for the last 40 years as a playwright.
My advice for you is to work on every production in school. Along with acting, volunteer for different jobs. Costumes, props, lights, sound, set, assistant to the director, painting posters, running lines with the actors. Everything! After High School, choose a university with the best theatre department. Some students go to a 2 college and then transfer and some go directly to university. Some of the best universities to aim for are Yale, UCLA, Duke, Northwestern, Columbia, Carnegie Mellon, DePaul, NYU, etc.
In the summer between semesters do an apprenticeship in summer stock where you'll work in all areas of theatre. And when you graduate, apply for an internship in a regional theatre. Throughout you'll be cast in roles, building set, costumes and props, working with the designers, stage managers and directors, not just learning everything about theatre, at the end you'll know what career you want to follow. And then apply to the union that covers that field. As a stage manger I'm a member of Actors Equity Association (AEA) as are actors. As a playwright I am a member of the Dramatists Guild). Lighting, Set, Sound, Costume Designers belong to United Scenic Artists (USA.); Directors and Choreographers to Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC), and Stagehands and Electrician to IATSE.
Theatre is an amazing world to spend your life. It's fun, it's hard work, it's exciting, but filled with rejection, there's absolute acceptance no matter what, and lots of ups and downs, but in the end it's the best place to be.
My suggestion is to GO FOR IT!
Break-a-leg!
My advice for you is to work on every production in school. Along with acting, volunteer for different jobs. Costumes, props, lights, sound, set, assistant to the director, painting posters, running lines with the actors. Everything! After High School, choose a university with the best theatre department. Some students go to a 2 college and then transfer and some go directly to university. Some of the best universities to aim for are Yale, UCLA, Duke, Northwestern, Columbia, Carnegie Mellon, DePaul, NYU, etc.
In the summer between semesters do an apprenticeship in summer stock where you'll work in all areas of theatre. And when you graduate, apply for an internship in a regional theatre. Throughout you'll be cast in roles, building set, costumes and props, working with the designers, stage managers and directors, not just learning everything about theatre, at the end you'll know what career you want to follow. And then apply to the union that covers that field. As a stage manger I'm a member of Actors Equity Association (AEA) as are actors. As a playwright I am a member of the Dramatists Guild). Lighting, Set, Sound, Costume Designers belong to United Scenic Artists (USA.); Directors and Choreographers to Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC), and Stagehands and Electrician to IATSE.
Theatre is an amazing world to spend your life. It's fun, it's hard work, it's exciting, but filled with rejection, there's absolute acceptance no matter what, and lots of ups and downs, but in the end it's the best place to be.
My suggestion is to GO FOR IT!
Break-a-leg!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6182
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Elizabeth,
Embarking on a Professional Acting Journey
Given your passion for theatre and acting, it's only fitting that you consider a career as a professional actor. As an actor, you'll have the opportunity to breathe life into stories through your performances, be it on stage, in films, or on television. Remember, this career path requires immense dedication, relentless hard work, and unwavering perseverance, as the competition is intense.
Essential Skills for an Actor
Effective communication and interpersonal abilities
Capacity to memorize scripts and comprehend intricate characters
Emotional expressiveness and creative flair
Physical endurance and adaptability
Readiness to work flexibly in terms of schedules and locations
Willingness to cooperate with directors, producers, and co-actors
Commitment to ongoing learning and enhancement through workshops, classes, and rehearsals
Roadmap to Becoming a Professional Actor
Start by gaining experience in high school theatre productions.
Join workshops, classes, and summer programs to hone your skills.
Pursue a degree in theatre or performance arts to refine your acting skills and build a solid foundation in related areas like voice, movement, and stagecraft.
Engage in local or community theatre productions to gain additional experience and establish industry connections.
Consider becoming a member of an acting union such as SAG-AFTRA or Equity for access to job listings, benefits, and protections.
Create an impressive portfolio showcasing your work, including headshots, resume, and video reels.
Network with industry professionals by attending workshops, seminars, or festivals to discover opportunities that can kickstart your career.
Audition for roles across various platforms - from local productions to regional or national tours or even film projects - to keep gaining experience and exposure.
Be ready to face rejection, a common occurrence in the industry, but remain persistent and resilient in your quest for acting opportunities.
Keep refining your craft by enrolling in additional classes or workshops, watching performances, and learning from industry professionals.
May God Bless You!
James Constantine Frangos.
Embarking on a Professional Acting Journey
Given your passion for theatre and acting, it's only fitting that you consider a career as a professional actor. As an actor, you'll have the opportunity to breathe life into stories through your performances, be it on stage, in films, or on television. Remember, this career path requires immense dedication, relentless hard work, and unwavering perseverance, as the competition is intense.
Essential Skills for an Actor
Effective communication and interpersonal abilities
Capacity to memorize scripts and comprehend intricate characters
Emotional expressiveness and creative flair
Physical endurance and adaptability
Readiness to work flexibly in terms of schedules and locations
Willingness to cooperate with directors, producers, and co-actors
Commitment to ongoing learning and enhancement through workshops, classes, and rehearsals
Roadmap to Becoming a Professional Actor
Start by gaining experience in high school theatre productions.
Join workshops, classes, and summer programs to hone your skills.
Pursue a degree in theatre or performance arts to refine your acting skills and build a solid foundation in related areas like voice, movement, and stagecraft.
Engage in local or community theatre productions to gain additional experience and establish industry connections.
Consider becoming a member of an acting union such as SAG-AFTRA or Equity for access to job listings, benefits, and protections.
Create an impressive portfolio showcasing your work, including headshots, resume, and video reels.
Network with industry professionals by attending workshops, seminars, or festivals to discover opportunities that can kickstart your career.
Audition for roles across various platforms - from local productions to regional or national tours or even film projects - to keep gaining experience and exposure.
Be ready to face rejection, a common occurrence in the industry, but remain persistent and resilient in your quest for acting opportunities.
Keep refining your craft by enrolling in additional classes or workshops, watching performances, and learning from industry professionals.
May God Bless You!
James Constantine Frangos.