Theatre Careers: Training in Performing Arts

Jobs in the performing arts can be exciting, but quite difficult as well. The performance arts industry employs professionals such as:
  • Actors
  • Directors
  • Musicians
  • Lighting specialists
  • Sound Technicians
  • Writers.
 
A creative and self-motivated individual is usually the best fit for most theater jobs. Most of these jobs require minimal education, although formal and technical training are an advantage if you're considering jobs in theater.

Jobs in the Performing Arts

The performing arts industry caters to many unique talents and abilities. From those who are open and artistic to individuals who are technologically savvy, just about anyone can find something. Some of the more popular jobs include the following:
  • Lighting techs work with stage lighting to ensure that actors and singers can be seen. Most are often responsible for special effects lighting. Installing or repairing lights often requires a fair amount of physical labor.
  • Producers, directors and actors work in a collaborative manner to direct and perform content. Some talented individuals may even choose to do all three. This job is generally extremely time-intensive and requires a lot of creativity.
  • Sound engineers use recording equipment to capture and edit performances, as well as provide sound for individuals performing onstage. Some reproduce, mix, and sell the music from a performance.
  • Stage managers are essentially in charge of the set. Most of the other performance arts professionals will report to the stage manager. She is responsible for making sure the set runs smoothly, including overseeing costume changes, lighting and cues.
 

Facts and Figures

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics states that job opportunities in the performance industry are expected to increase by 11 percent between 2006 and 2016. However, competition for theater jobs and acting jobs is usually very intense. Only the very best can expect to make good money in this industry. Others may spend quite some time trying to break in to the industry, usually working a second job for income. Salaries for some actors may be lower than minimum wage, while others may enjoy more than $50 per hour. Salary for other performance art jobs will vary similarly.

Education, Training, and Work Experience

Do you want to know how to become an actor? Education is rarely required in the performing arts. In fact, experience in jobs in theater and "know-how" are more valuable than formal education. However, having an education may help you to get the upper hand on breaking into the industry. Courses and certificate programs ranging from musical training to sound engineering vocational school can be beneficial.Having the proper training may make you more appealing to potential employers.

Related Associations And Groups

There are many associations aimed at educating amateur actors, musicians, producers, directors, technicians and engineers. Consulting with such organizations may give you some insight on how to break into the performance industry. Some of these groups are the following:
  • Acoustic Musicians Guild
  • Actors’ Equity Association
  • American Association of Community Theatre
  • American Guild of Music
  • Audio Engineering Society
  • Educational Theatre Association
  • International Association of Lighting Management Companies
  • Stage Management Association
  • Theatre and Performance Research Association
  • Young Musicians' Society.
 
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