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As a theatre major, what do you do post graduation?

I'm studying acting, and unfortunately the odds of success after graduation can be hit or miss. What the heck do I do after I graduate? Their are many questions on how to obtain a manager, agent, publicist, lawyer. And which one is the most important. It is so easy to be taken advantage of. #theatre #performing-arts #art #artist #career

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Ellen’s Answer

Hi Stephanie:

Best wishes on your career in theatre, but it things seem like they might not work out on stage, why not consider a career in teaching theatre? The theatre arts teachers I met in the schools I taught in were very happy with their careers, and they really enjoyed working with young thespians. I had a similar experience with visual art; I had kicked around in various "day jobs" and art-related jobs, but I really felt at home as an art teacher. I found it very creative and exhilarating working with young artists. I also enjoyed having a steady income with good benefits and my summers off to do my own artwork.


You might talk to some of your theatre arts teachers/professors about their experiences. Just a thought.
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Megan’s Answer

Great question! By now, 2 years later, you may have graduated - but food for thought (in addition to what Ellen mentioned above, in possibly pursuing a teaching route). I received my BFA in Theatre/Musical Theatre and was a NY-based Union Actress for 10 years, working consistently. It takes tons of passion & grit to pursue professional performing arts, but it can be accomplished and is done every day. And post-pandemic, theatres will reopen and flourish again :)

- Network with your College Professors. They should be from the business, or still active in the acting community, and they'll know other professionals in the space. As they nurture your education, they should also be able to guide you to coffee chats with working actors in NY, Chicago, FL or wherever your long-term vision lies. Ask them about audition opportunities/resources in the local theatres they may be aware of; or if you're heading out post-grad, see if they have guidance to a solid tax professional for you as a self-employed individual; research & explore audition events (like Backstage https://www.backstage.com/casting/open-casting-calls/theater-auditions/).
- Work hard and learn as much as you can. Craft a strong resume; align a good headshot photographer for professional photos. Take continued classes from reputable industry professionals; explore the intro program (called EMC) to pursue a long-term goal of becoming union AEA (https://www.actorsequity.org/)
- Keep an open mind. If you have multiple skills and interest for the stage, screen, design, backstage, production elements etc, be open to learning and seeing opportunities that may be a fit!

Best of luck!
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