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How to Start a Career in the Theater

For those who are drawn to the smell of greasepaint, or who get excited just thinking about the bright lights of a theater stage, a job in the theater could be the perfect way to turn a burning passion into a lifelong career.

In the theater, there is is something for everyone. Acting is certainly one option, but there is also directing, producing, writing, and music direction, not to mention make up, stage design, sound and lighting.

Whatever the specific trade, people who work in the theater all share common skills and traits — such as creative thinker, team player, and hard worker -— that fit in perfectly within the highly collaborative nature of theater work

Getting started in the theater

Getting experience in the theater usually starts in nonpaying church groups and local theater productions. Anyone still in school can often find some sort of theater happening there, as well.

These smaller venues are a perfect way to get basic experience. However, it can be difficult to find theater jobs that actually pay at this level, and very difficult to make a living at it.

To really have a lucrative career in the theater, job seekers must typically situate themselves in such meccas as New York, London, Chicago, or LA that that have a thriving theater scene where a career can be further developed.

Consider formal training

Meanwhile, formal theater training from recognized colleges and universities is another highly recommended option, since casting directors or hiring managers are known to actively seek out those who spell out their formal schooling and experience on their resumes, .

While a college degree isn't necessary in all cases for a professional career, there are certainly few in the industry who would discourage it.

Theater Jobs Outlook

The job outlook for this industry is about average, with growth expected to match the national average. Earnings for someone working in the theater will vary depending on the specific job and the type of venue, but typical salaries for an actor and actress in the US nationwide, for example, only average between $11 and $12 an hour.

More about theater careers around the Web:

American Theatre Wing - Career Guides - Video interviews with a dancer, actress, stage manager, stagehand, hair and makeup designer, musical director and dozens more professionals with been-there insights into Broadway and the modern theater scene.

Welcome to the Theater - Resources Page - The place to start for various roles and responsibilities including job descriptions for actor, producer and director, writers and designers, as well as related careers in the film and entertainment industry.

A Career Guide for Theater Majors - Sweeping guide to entering the profession from the University of Texas, with overviews of dozens of available positions including job descriptions, average wages, and pages of related resources. In PDF format (Adobe Format required).

Careers in Theater - Kid-friendly guide with tips on education and training, overviews and job descriptions for actors, directors, costume designers and stage managers, historical facts, and resources to more information.

How to Start an Acting Career Outside of Hollywood - Good advice on starting out in regional or local theater with advice on education, skills and tools including discussions on voice, movement and improvisation, resumes and audition tips.

Theater Arts - Backstage Resources - A good collection of resources with information on production assistant, wardrobe supervisor, stage managers, and related careers.

also see in Theater -> Dancing Jobs & Auditions | Tony Awards

Theater History | Performance Art | Theater Scripts

Show Listings | Theater Awards | Theater Publications

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