4 answers
Julia
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
5
Questions
Asked
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What are different careers that and involved in theatre and acting?
I am 15 and theatre is one of the hobbies that I have. I am wondering what careers are in this direction.
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4 answers
Anna-Teressa Soto-Andujar
Stage Managment
3
Answers
Boca Raton
Updated
Anna-Teressa’s Answer
Hello Julia!
I would encourage you to explore the different departments and aspects of theater both on and off stage. If you love painting or being crafty props, scenic painting, costume creation, or carpentry might be right up your alley. If you love organization and collaboration being a Stage Manager, Assistant Stage Manager, or Wardrobe Supervisor also might interest you. If you are someone that likes computers, tech, or math then jobs in lights or sound is definitely an option. If acting is your main focus then I would encourage you to learn about stage combat, dialects (accents), different genres of theater, and film/stage acting classes. There are so many roles and responsibilities that the options really are endless and being young you have time to explore! As you get older and get more experience you can start honing in on what you like the most. Some of the most adaptable and experience actors I know have experience in technical theater as well as acting. Also if you are interested you could look at other avenues of performance as well such as film, art, dance, etc.
How can you learn-
Your community can be an incredible source of theater exposure and education. Children's theater and your school is an incredible place to learn basics as they can provide shows for you to be in as well as classes in singing, acting, dancing, theater tech. There are also wonderful summer acting programs all over the world that you can learn and get so much experience from in a short amount of time.
All throughout the country there are hubs of entertainment-
Florida is rich with community theaters that are well established and have wonderful programs for the young and old, shows, and festivals. There is also many forms of live entertainment businesses such as Disney, SeaWorld, Universal, Cruise lines, etc.
Georgia is becoming really popular for the films industry with shows like Stranger Things filming there and big movies like Black Widow filming there as well.
There is NY or LA, like stated above, which are full of opportunities but very competitive as well.
And similar to Broadway in NY there is also the West End in England if you're interested in international opportunities. England is also packed with other theaters like the Globe, and also quite a few only women performing Shakespeare theaters if your interested in that.
There are many others but these are just a few!
I hope this was helpful and best of luck!
I would encourage you to explore the different departments and aspects of theater both on and off stage. If you love painting or being crafty props, scenic painting, costume creation, or carpentry might be right up your alley. If you love organization and collaboration being a Stage Manager, Assistant Stage Manager, or Wardrobe Supervisor also might interest you. If you are someone that likes computers, tech, or math then jobs in lights or sound is definitely an option. If acting is your main focus then I would encourage you to learn about stage combat, dialects (accents), different genres of theater, and film/stage acting classes. There are so many roles and responsibilities that the options really are endless and being young you have time to explore! As you get older and get more experience you can start honing in on what you like the most. Some of the most adaptable and experience actors I know have experience in technical theater as well as acting. Also if you are interested you could look at other avenues of performance as well such as film, art, dance, etc.
How can you learn-
Your community can be an incredible source of theater exposure and education. Children's theater and your school is an incredible place to learn basics as they can provide shows for you to be in as well as classes in singing, acting, dancing, theater tech. There are also wonderful summer acting programs all over the world that you can learn and get so much experience from in a short amount of time.
All throughout the country there are hubs of entertainment-
Florida is rich with community theaters that are well established and have wonderful programs for the young and old, shows, and festivals. There is also many forms of live entertainment businesses such as Disney, SeaWorld, Universal, Cruise lines, etc.
Georgia is becoming really popular for the films industry with shows like Stranger Things filming there and big movies like Black Widow filming there as well.
There is NY or LA, like stated above, which are full of opportunities but very competitive as well.
And similar to Broadway in NY there is also the West End in England if you're interested in international opportunities. England is also packed with other theaters like the Globe, and also quite a few only women performing Shakespeare theaters if your interested in that.
There are many others but these are just a few!
I hope this was helpful and best of luck!
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1913
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Julia !
Great question and I am happy to see that you are exploring careers in theatre !
The following are possible careers in Theatre: Actor (primary and understudy), Director, Playwright, Stage Manager, Lighting and Sound Director, Costumer, Promotion and Management Administrator, Box Office Staff and Accountant and Payroll Staff, Theatre Reviewer (but this would fall under Journalism), Set Designer and Construction which includes Props, and some shows use Choreographers. Some very large theatres have staff for Audience Relations and Season Ticket staff (although many real large theatres use Ticket Master and TicketTron now). You can also become a Theatrical Agent for actors, obtaining work for them in theatre. You can also possibly work for Actor's Equity, that is the theatrical Union for stage workers. These individuals are active pre-production and during the run of the show and many are expected to work post-production, too. You can also teach Acting or one of the other disciplines by obtaining a Masters Degree and working extensively in your desired disciple. There are also Theatre Groups that form and bring their work to various theatres or open spaces.
The bulk of the employment for this career would be in and around New York City and in and around Los Angeles. There is no actual definite count on how many live professional theatres are in the U.S. right now, but it is estimated that there are about 3,893. The bulk of these theatres are located in New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago and many cities do have active live theatres. You would just pick a city and research their theatre community.
To take a professional Theatre path, you can attend college and train in any college that offers a robust Theatre Program and then decide where you'd want to live to work as a theatre professional once you obtain your degree. You would benefit by obtaining at least a Bachelors Degree in Theatre for most positions in that field.
Experience will help you discover if you want to take this hobby further. Keep being involved with stage productions and try to get experience backstage as well as onstage and see how you like it. Working backstage is always insightful if you eventually want to be an Actor. Take full advantage of all the resources at your high school right now.
I hope this is helpful and I wish you all the best as you further explore the awesome world of Theater !
Great question and I am happy to see that you are exploring careers in theatre !
The following are possible careers in Theatre: Actor (primary and understudy), Director, Playwright, Stage Manager, Lighting and Sound Director, Costumer, Promotion and Management Administrator, Box Office Staff and Accountant and Payroll Staff, Theatre Reviewer (but this would fall under Journalism), Set Designer and Construction which includes Props, and some shows use Choreographers. Some very large theatres have staff for Audience Relations and Season Ticket staff (although many real large theatres use Ticket Master and TicketTron now). You can also become a Theatrical Agent for actors, obtaining work for them in theatre. You can also possibly work for Actor's Equity, that is the theatrical Union for stage workers. These individuals are active pre-production and during the run of the show and many are expected to work post-production, too. You can also teach Acting or one of the other disciplines by obtaining a Masters Degree and working extensively in your desired disciple. There are also Theatre Groups that form and bring their work to various theatres or open spaces.
The bulk of the employment for this career would be in and around New York City and in and around Los Angeles. There is no actual definite count on how many live professional theatres are in the U.S. right now, but it is estimated that there are about 3,893. The bulk of these theatres are located in New York City, Los Angeles and Chicago and many cities do have active live theatres. You would just pick a city and research their theatre community.
To take a professional Theatre path, you can attend college and train in any college that offers a robust Theatre Program and then decide where you'd want to live to work as a theatre professional once you obtain your degree. You would benefit by obtaining at least a Bachelors Degree in Theatre for most positions in that field.
Experience will help you discover if you want to take this hobby further. Keep being involved with stage productions and try to get experience backstage as well as onstage and see how you like it. Working backstage is always insightful if you eventually want to be an Actor. Take full advantage of all the resources at your high school right now.
I hope this is helpful and I wish you all the best as you further explore the awesome world of Theater !
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Julia
You are very welcome for the advice, Julia ! Glad to know you found it useful.
Michelle M.
Dora Endre
Filmmaker and stage director, writer
12
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Dora’s Answer
Hello Julia,
I hope you are well! Instead of repeating what others have already said and suggested, I would say: find one or two friends who are similarly passionate about theatre and acting and start writing sketches or short movies together. By collaborating, wearing different hats (maybe this month you write something, next month you act in a friend's short) you will learn about yourself, gain different skills and most importantly: share your creative passion with others while making projects. Furthermore, if you enjoy working together, you might publish your projects online, submit it to festivals or perform it at local events. Hands-on experience is the best! I am sure you will find your way. Trust the universe and the creative power within you.
All the very best,
Dora Endre
I hope you are well! Instead of repeating what others have already said and suggested, I would say: find one or two friends who are similarly passionate about theatre and acting and start writing sketches or short movies together. By collaborating, wearing different hats (maybe this month you write something, next month you act in a friend's short) you will learn about yourself, gain different skills and most importantly: share your creative passion with others while making projects. Furthermore, if you enjoy working together, you might publish your projects online, submit it to festivals or perform it at local events. Hands-on experience is the best! I am sure you will find your way. Trust the universe and the creative power within you.
All the very best,
Dora Endre
Thank you!
Julia
Jennifer Jackson
Film producer/screenwriter
9
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Julia
That’s great to hear that you have a passion for theatre! There are numerous career paths in the field of theatre and acting, each offering different opportunities to express creativity and contribute to the performing arts. Here’s a list of various careers related to theatre and acting:
Performing Careers
1. Actor/Actress: Perform in plays, musicals, films, and television productions.
2. Voice Actor: Provide voices for animated characters, commercials, video games, and audiobooks.
3. Dancer: Perform in dance productions, musicals, or as part of theatre shows.
4. Musician/Singer: Perform music in live theatre productions, often as part of a musical.
Behind-the-Scenes Careers
5. Director: Oversee the creative aspects of a production, guiding actors and shaping the overall vision.
6. Producer: Manage the production process, including budgeting, scheduling, and coordinating various departments.
7. Stage Manager: Organize and manage all aspects of a theatrical production, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
8. Set Designer: Create the physical environment for a production, designing sets that reflect the story and themes.
9. Costume Designer: Design and create costumes that help define characters and contribute to the visual storytelling.
10. Lighting Designer: Design the lighting for a production to enhance the mood and atmosphere of the performance.
11. Sound Designer: Create the auditory elements of a production, including sound effects and music.
Technical Careers
12. Stagehand: Work behind the scenes to set up and operate equipment during performances.
13. Prop Master: Manage all props used in a production, ensuring they are available and in good condition.
14. Makeup Artist: Apply makeup to actors to create character looks and special effects.
15. Theatre Technician: Handle technical aspects such as sound, lighting, and stage equipment.
Administrative and Support Careers
16. Theatre Manager: Oversee the operations of a theatre, including scheduling performances and managing staff.
17. Box Office Manager: Handle ticket sales and customer service for theatre productions.
18. Marketing and Public Relations: Promote productions, manage social media, and engage with the community.
Education and Community Engagement
19. Drama Teacher/Instructor: Teach acting, directing, or theatre production at schools or community programs.
20. Theatre Therapist: Use drama and theatre techniques as a form of therapy to help individuals express themselves and heal.
Additional Opportunities
21. Playwright: Write plays and scripts for theatre productions.
22. Choreographer: Create dance routines for musicals and theatrical performances.
23. Casting Director: Manage the audition process and select actors for roles in productions.
Freelance and Entrepreneurship
24. Independent Filmmaker: Write, direct, and produce your own films or theatre productions.
25. Content Creator: Utilize platforms like YouTube or TikTok to create and share original theatre-related content.
Conclusion
As you explore your interest in theatre, consider trying out different roles in school productions or community theatre to gain experience. Each of these careers can lead to fulfilling opportunities in the performing arts. Whether you want to be in front of the audience or work behind the scenes, there are many paths to explore in the world of theatre!
Good luck!
Jennifer
That’s great to hear that you have a passion for theatre! There are numerous career paths in the field of theatre and acting, each offering different opportunities to express creativity and contribute to the performing arts. Here’s a list of various careers related to theatre and acting:
Performing Careers
1. Actor/Actress: Perform in plays, musicals, films, and television productions.
2. Voice Actor: Provide voices for animated characters, commercials, video games, and audiobooks.
3. Dancer: Perform in dance productions, musicals, or as part of theatre shows.
4. Musician/Singer: Perform music in live theatre productions, often as part of a musical.
Behind-the-Scenes Careers
5. Director: Oversee the creative aspects of a production, guiding actors and shaping the overall vision.
6. Producer: Manage the production process, including budgeting, scheduling, and coordinating various departments.
7. Stage Manager: Organize and manage all aspects of a theatrical production, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
8. Set Designer: Create the physical environment for a production, designing sets that reflect the story and themes.
9. Costume Designer: Design and create costumes that help define characters and contribute to the visual storytelling.
10. Lighting Designer: Design the lighting for a production to enhance the mood and atmosphere of the performance.
11. Sound Designer: Create the auditory elements of a production, including sound effects and music.
Technical Careers
12. Stagehand: Work behind the scenes to set up and operate equipment during performances.
13. Prop Master: Manage all props used in a production, ensuring they are available and in good condition.
14. Makeup Artist: Apply makeup to actors to create character looks and special effects.
15. Theatre Technician: Handle technical aspects such as sound, lighting, and stage equipment.
Administrative and Support Careers
16. Theatre Manager: Oversee the operations of a theatre, including scheduling performances and managing staff.
17. Box Office Manager: Handle ticket sales and customer service for theatre productions.
18. Marketing and Public Relations: Promote productions, manage social media, and engage with the community.
Education and Community Engagement
19. Drama Teacher/Instructor: Teach acting, directing, or theatre production at schools or community programs.
20. Theatre Therapist: Use drama and theatre techniques as a form of therapy to help individuals express themselves and heal.
Additional Opportunities
21. Playwright: Write plays and scripts for theatre productions.
22. Choreographer: Create dance routines for musicals and theatrical performances.
23. Casting Director: Manage the audition process and select actors for roles in productions.
Freelance and Entrepreneurship
24. Independent Filmmaker: Write, direct, and produce your own films or theatre productions.
25. Content Creator: Utilize platforms like YouTube or TikTok to create and share original theatre-related content.
Conclusion
As you explore your interest in theatre, consider trying out different roles in school productions or community theatre to gain experience. Each of these careers can lead to fulfilling opportunities in the performing arts. Whether you want to be in front of the audience or work behind the scenes, there are many paths to explore in the world of theatre!
Good luck!
Jennifer
Thank you for the advice.
Julia