Overview

People work in theatre because they are passionate about it. Theatre is an unstable profession, but it offers some a thrill no other profession could. You can continue to hone your theatre skills after school through community theatre, theatre workshops, and summer theatre programs at colleges.

There are several different jobs for those who pursue theatre as a profession. One could become a playwright, writing scripts and attempting to sell them to producers. There are actors, who must go on auditions with a résumé and photograph and who must persevere through much rejection. There are directors, producers, stage managers, and designers. Designers each create or plan a specific part of a production. Their specialties include lighting, set design, sound, costume, and makeup. Their shared goal is to set a mood and give the show a “finished look.” One might also become a theatre teacher. It is important to keep in mind that fluidity can exist between many of these jobs.