Careers in Theatre

As a theatre major, you will learn the ins and outs of acting, stage production, design and more during your time at Concordia Nebraska. However, it can be difficult to imagine all the possibilities that the world of drama can offer even after graduation. Choosing to study theatre can not only lead you toward a career as an actor but working behind the scenes too – or even coordinating the activities of an entire theatre program! These eight career options are perfect for all types of students interested in the dramatic arts.  

Actor 

Actors are generally freelance workers who may take jobs onstage, in movies, commercials or many other locations. They may specialize in portraying a particular type of character, or they may be open to playing one of many types of roles. Although no higher education is required to pursue a career as an actor, many who wish to hone their skills and receive a well-rounded, liberal arts education choose to attend a four-year university program. Salaries for actors and actresses vary widely based on the scope of employment.  

Choreographer 

As a choreographer, you may work with actors or other groups of people who are required to perform a particular routine. Choreographers may work for dance or performing arts companies, or they may be self-employed. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most choreographers begin their career as dancers or actors. Then, they must synthesize the movements of a group of dancers according to an existing dance or a dance they create. Again, salaries vary widely based on the scope of employment.  

Director/Assistant Director 

Plays, movies and other dramatic productions require the expertise of directors to make creative decisions regarding many aspects of performances. From set design to the placement of actors onstage during a scene, directors oversee the process of production from beginning to end. They are, essentially, “in charge” of rehearsals and actor portrayals. Assistant directors may hold duties of their own or split some duties with a lead director. Median salaries are about $80,000 but vary based on location and specific tasks.  

Freelance Writer 

As a freelance writer, you’ll be self-employed and take jobs according to your availability and interests. For theatre majors, this could result in working in screenwriting or a theatre-related content area. From there, the possibilities are endless – you may be creating characters, writing dialogue, composing blog posts for a performing arts company or writing in a theatrical journal. Salaries, once again, vary widely. Some freelance writers hold other jobs to ensure that they maintain a steady income.  

Stage Manager 

Stage managers oversee most day-to-day operations within a theatre company or related to a theatrical production. They typically keep track of the most important aspects of a show, from scheduling rehearsals to documenting details on actor placement, sound and lighting. During performances, they often manage the “backstage” area and ensure that cues are called and timed correctly. The average stage manager earns around $50,000 annually.  

Drama Teacher 

Drama teachers may work in educational facilities at all levels, from public schools to performing arts schools and even universities. Here, they may teach courses on anything from acting technique to set design. Therefore, drama teachers most often need at least a bachelor’s degree in theatre, frequently alongside a valid teaching license. Some may choose to pursue graduate-level education as well. Salaries can vary but are typically about $65,000.  

Creative Director 

In the advertising and movie fields, creative directors – sometimes known as art directors – are responsible for the visual aspects of magazines, newspapers or other publications. They typically oversee the work of other artists and creative workers, meaning that their role is somewhat managerial. In addition, they can contribute directly to the creative processes of design firms, advertising agencies and more. Salaries are often over $100,000, making this career a lucrative one.  

Community Arts Coordinator 

The roles that fall under the umbrella term of “community arts worker” are many. They are usually freelance creative professionals who are hired by community groups to create art for a specific project or purpose. Painting murals, giving classes, managing community events and more are all possible projects that a community arts coordinator might lead or participate in. Salaries vary widely, as is common with freelance and contract-based work.  

The theatre department at Concordia Nebraska includes the theatre major and minor, as well as course and extracurricular options for students of other disciplines who are interested in participating. Learn more about theatre-related opportunities here.