9 answers
Ava
Student
Iowa City, Iowa
2
Questions
Asked
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How realistic is it to pursue a job in theatre management and what steps should I take to do this?
I am currently a freshman in college, and I am realizing that my passions lie in the theatre world, but more so in the management side. I would love to pursue a career in theatre management whether that be a project manager for a theatre or shooting for the stars to be the artistic director of a theatre. However, I'm not sure if this is a feasible goal, or if I should be more realistic and stick to my current plan of being an English & Creative Writing: Publishing major and pursue a career in publishing. I am also curious what I should major in if I do decide to switch majors and remove my English & Creative Writing: Publishing major. I currently attend the University of Iowa, and they do have a good Business school, but I also know that Iowa is known for their Writing programs and not necessarily their Business or Theatre programs. I definitely know that whatever I do, I am keeping Theatre Arts as a second major because I have a lot of college credits from high school that allow me to do so. Should I let theatre just be my "fun thing," or can I turn this passion into a realistic career? How would I get a job after college with a reasonable salary I can sustain myself off of? How difficult is it to actually pursue a theatre management career? How long will it take for me to climb my way up to a well-paying job? Basically, my biggest question is, is it worth it/realistic?
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8 answers
Michelle M.
Actress
3276
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello again, Ava !
Once again, I want to encourage you to follow your dream career to be an artistic director of a theatre. Yes, again, drop the Creative Writing Major and focus solely on theatre. If there's a theatre course not offered at your college, go to a community theatre to volunteer in that facet or a different department at the college. There is one thing that you will have to consider. It's great that you are at college in Iowa, but to pursue what you want, you will have to eventually relocate to either New York City, NY or Los Angeles, CA for the most choice of work. You can do it and I wish I can one on one career counsel you, but we don't do that here, so definitely ask more questions here.
Only major in Theatre as I've previously mentioned in your other post. Visit your campus Financial Aid office and ask them if you can apply for Work Study now or do you have to wait for the next school year. If you obtain Work Study, you can have a paid work experience working in your Theatre Department and that will benefit you greatly. It did for me. The thing is, for us theatre people, we need to live in the moment and throw all worry about the future out the window. You know why ? Because you will have opportunities. Your path in theatre will teach you how to have the career you want. You just need to give it some time and it will all make sense.
Start interacting with Riverside Theatre, your local professional theatre in Iowa City. Also venture into the Iowa City Community Theatre and Dreamwell Theatre which are community theatres and you may not get paid if you work there. There really aren't any professional theatres in Iowa. You will need to be around theatre people everyday for it to start seeming real and doable.
For writing, you would need to take Playwriting in college, either in your Theatre Department or if they don't offer it, explore the college's English or Literature Department for this course. You could always take playwriting classes online, too. Dedicate all your time to theatre -learn every aspect, light and sound, set construction, box office management, costuming, stage management, theatre graphics, one acting class, directing, etc.
So there are a lot of considerations that you'd have to think about. It will depend on how strong your passion is for theatre and if you're only thinking about a publishing career because you think it's an easier path for work. The choice is up to you.
Best wishes in all you do !
Once again, I want to encourage you to follow your dream career to be an artistic director of a theatre. Yes, again, drop the Creative Writing Major and focus solely on theatre. If there's a theatre course not offered at your college, go to a community theatre to volunteer in that facet or a different department at the college. There is one thing that you will have to consider. It's great that you are at college in Iowa, but to pursue what you want, you will have to eventually relocate to either New York City, NY or Los Angeles, CA for the most choice of work. You can do it and I wish I can one on one career counsel you, but we don't do that here, so definitely ask more questions here.
Only major in Theatre as I've previously mentioned in your other post. Visit your campus Financial Aid office and ask them if you can apply for Work Study now or do you have to wait for the next school year. If you obtain Work Study, you can have a paid work experience working in your Theatre Department and that will benefit you greatly. It did for me. The thing is, for us theatre people, we need to live in the moment and throw all worry about the future out the window. You know why ? Because you will have opportunities. Your path in theatre will teach you how to have the career you want. You just need to give it some time and it will all make sense.
Start interacting with Riverside Theatre, your local professional theatre in Iowa City. Also venture into the Iowa City Community Theatre and Dreamwell Theatre which are community theatres and you may not get paid if you work there. There really aren't any professional theatres in Iowa. You will need to be around theatre people everyday for it to start seeming real and doable.
For writing, you would need to take Playwriting in college, either in your Theatre Department or if they don't offer it, explore the college's English or Literature Department for this course. You could always take playwriting classes online, too. Dedicate all your time to theatre -learn every aspect, light and sound, set construction, box office management, costuming, stage management, theatre graphics, one acting class, directing, etc.
So there are a lot of considerations that you'd have to think about. It will depend on how strong your passion is for theatre and if you're only thinking about a publishing career because you think it's an easier path for work. The choice is up to you.
Best wishes in all you do !
Dr Lucas Txibamba
Humanitarian
19
Answers
Luanda, Luanda Province, Angola
Updated
Dr Lucas’s Answer
Pursuing a career in theatre management is definitely achievable. While it can be challenging and competitive, it's a real and important career choice. Every theatre, whether a small community playhouse or a big Broadway venue, needs people to handle budgets, organize projects, raise funds, market shows, and lead the team. These roles are essential for making art happen.
Success comes with having a plan, being patient, and understanding the field. Although it may not lead to instant riches, it can certainly provide a stable and rewarding career.
Success comes with having a plan, being patient, and understanding the field. Although it may not lead to instant riches, it can certainly provide a stable and rewarding career.
Elisa Amador
Customer Management and remote device configuration support
8
Answers
San José, Costa Rica
Updated
Elisa’s Answer
Hi Ava, what an honest and heartfelt exploration of your concerns. I have so many different ideas of how to respond to this - but mainly, stick to what you love and what your passion truly is - cause that will make you thrive. I liked your plan a lot, it's very wise and just smart - you can pursue something that aligns with this passion and have theater be a side project or hobby. This also works well and helps you have a little of both worlds and in fact I even like that idea more because of how much more you will broaden your network - best of luck!
David Robkin
Consulting
10
Answers
Monrovia, California
Updated
David’s Answer
Stage Management is one of those skills that transfers secretly to almost any other "regular" field but nobody wants to admit it. College is about learning as much as you can about as much as possible and should not be considered a "trade school" for a profession. Learning and practicing stage management now will make any future career path more successful, even staying in theater. Keeping your eyes open and experiencing as much as you can means when you get to graduate school you can choose to specialize in absolutely anything.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1186
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Ava!
You're ahead of most first-year students because you're considering both passion and practicality, and you're asking all the right questions.
A career in theater administration is completely possible, but like other creative fields, it requires patience, planning, and dedication to develop.
Fortunately, "luck in the arts" isn't the only factor. The managerial side of theater requires strong organizational, leadership, and communication abilities, all of which may be carefully prepared for. Theater is a business as well.
Here’s a breakdown of how to think about your next steps:
- Combine your creative and business skills. You already have a strong foundation in storytelling and communication, which are important skills in arts management, because you enjoy writing, publishing, and English. To complete your skills, you could continue with your present major and add a minor in marketing, business, or arts management. Or, if your institution offers it, consider taking classes in arts administration (often offered by the business or theater departments).
- Get hands-on experience early. Participate in stage management, production, or publicity for the theater productions at your university. Join community organizations, college arts centers, or local theaters as a volunteer or intern. When you start looking for a career, those connections and practical experiences will be more important than your specific major.
- Network within the theater community. Engage in professional associations such as the Association of Performing Arts Professionals (APAP) or the Theatre Communications Group (TCG), attend regional theater conferences, and speak with academics involved in the performing arts sector. Real doors are opened by these networks.
- Understand the career ladder. Assistant stage manager, development associate, or marketing coordinator are examples of entry-level positions. After years of experience and demonstrated creative leadership, you can eventually advance into department management, show production, or artistic director positions.
- Be realistic, but don’t shrink your dream. In particular, theater administration at colleges, local theaters, or nonprofit organizations dedicated to the arts can provide steady, fulfilling employment. As long as you approach it properly and develop your financial literacy along the way, it's not a "starving artist" career.
It's a good idea for you to continue studying theater arts as a second major because it provides you with a creative anchor as you try new things. Additionally, keep in mind that your profession doesn't have to be "practical" or "passionate." The best paths often combine the two.
You can surely transform your passion for theater into a long-term career if you maintain your interest, acquire experience, and network in the industry. Even while your progress is gradual, every step, rehearsal, project, and collaboration teaches you how to lead with both your heart and your intellect.
Best wishes!
You're ahead of most first-year students because you're considering both passion and practicality, and you're asking all the right questions.
A career in theater administration is completely possible, but like other creative fields, it requires patience, planning, and dedication to develop.
Fortunately, "luck in the arts" isn't the only factor. The managerial side of theater requires strong organizational, leadership, and communication abilities, all of which may be carefully prepared for. Theater is a business as well.
Here’s a breakdown of how to think about your next steps:
- Combine your creative and business skills. You already have a strong foundation in storytelling and communication, which are important skills in arts management, because you enjoy writing, publishing, and English. To complete your skills, you could continue with your present major and add a minor in marketing, business, or arts management. Or, if your institution offers it, consider taking classes in arts administration (often offered by the business or theater departments).
- Get hands-on experience early. Participate in stage management, production, or publicity for the theater productions at your university. Join community organizations, college arts centers, or local theaters as a volunteer or intern. When you start looking for a career, those connections and practical experiences will be more important than your specific major.
- Network within the theater community. Engage in professional associations such as the Association of Performing Arts Professionals (APAP) or the Theatre Communications Group (TCG), attend regional theater conferences, and speak with academics involved in the performing arts sector. Real doors are opened by these networks.
- Understand the career ladder. Assistant stage manager, development associate, or marketing coordinator are examples of entry-level positions. After years of experience and demonstrated creative leadership, you can eventually advance into department management, show production, or artistic director positions.
- Be realistic, but don’t shrink your dream. In particular, theater administration at colleges, local theaters, or nonprofit organizations dedicated to the arts can provide steady, fulfilling employment. As long as you approach it properly and develop your financial literacy along the way, it's not a "starving artist" career.
It's a good idea for you to continue studying theater arts as a second major because it provides you with a creative anchor as you try new things. Additionally, keep in mind that your profession doesn't have to be "practical" or "passionate." The best paths often combine the two.
You can surely transform your passion for theater into a long-term career if you maintain your interest, acquire experience, and network in the industry. Even while your progress is gradual, every step, rehearsal, project, and collaboration teaches you how to lead with both your heart and your intellect.
Best wishes!
Don Holland
Member Service Representative/Food Runner
244
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Don’s Answer
Hello Ava,
I would say that you should go for the career path that you most want to do in life. I know you worried about theatre management and how feasible it will be for your future but I think you should follow your passion and see where it goes. You don't want to live your life knowing you didn't go for something you wanted to do. It is possible to have a career in theatre management but it will depend on your job role, location and expertise you have. Make the best decision for yourself and best of luck to you!
I would say that you should go for the career path that you most want to do in life. I know you worried about theatre management and how feasible it will be for your future but I think you should follow your passion and see where it goes. You don't want to live your life knowing you didn't go for something you wanted to do. It is possible to have a career in theatre management but it will depend on your job role, location and expertise you have. Make the best decision for yourself and best of luck to you!
Joseph Ford
221
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
There are four main types of stage managers: West End, Touring, Regional theatre, and Theatre School. Each type of stage manager has different responsibilities, depending on the size and scope of the production they are working on. If this is your passion, then don't let anyone stop you from seeking it. Also don't expect a great salary at the start and the job will be somewhat stressful as people in this industry are very opinionative. Be willing to except criticism and have a strong character to defend your own suggestions.
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
819
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
This is the time to chase dreams! Find a local theater and speak with the manager there. Ask them about their journey and things they wish they had known while getting their education. If you can do a business degree with a minor in theater, you could possible chase your dream and still have some flexibility if you decide to go a different direction.