A Theater/Drama Degree: More Than Just an Act

There are more sides to this degree than what society thinks. You can use this degree to get work behind the scenes. What I meant as in behind the scenes is working putting together the costumes, hair styling, makeup, rigging, technical, stage management, etc. The job skills that you gain includes analysis, critical thinking, presentation, problem solving, research, oral and written communication.

Being a writer the theater industry is when you obtain this degree is more than just writing for the stage. Courses in English and journalism can be helpful if you want to position as a writer in the arts in general. You would become more well rounded that way. For those who are tech majors, some art courses can be very beneficial. If you are interested in the business side of theater, take some business courses or double major or minor in one of the business majors such as management, marketing, or business administration. Costumes and stylists should study some history courses because you observe clothing and styles depending on what time period a play takes play.

Try to get as much experience can you can during your undergrad years. Graduates of this degree can apply for positions in the business side of theater. Writing reviews for performances This side of theater includes clerical position in a studio and/or theater office Education positions with this degree is a good idea if you want to educate people about the art of theater. An advanced degree can open doors to leadership positions. Like what a professor I had for a stagecraft class, "Theater is a collaborative art." It means that there is a lot of teamwork involved. What I meant by teamwork, I meant a group of people constructing the set putting together the costumes, rehearsing and performing with other performers, styling hair and makeup and other tasks.

Behind the Scenes: Camera operator, crew, director, electrician, hairstylist, jewelry designer, photographer, producer, rigger, runner, scenic artist, set designer, special effects artist, stage manager, technician

Business: Agent, administrator, assistant, consultant, fundraiser, lawyer, manager, marketing, planner, sales, specialist

Education: Coach, historian, instructor, lecturer, motivation speaker, professor, teacher, trainer

Media: Announcer, broadcaster, critic, editor, host, journalist, playwright, press agent, publicist, researcher, radio DJ, writer

Performing: Actor, choreographer, comedian, circus performer, dancer, extra, magician, model, musician, stuntperson, voice over artist

Services: community worker, dramatherapist, nutritionist, religious worker, therapist, volunteer coordinator

In conclusion, no matter what anybody says about your degree you must believe in yourself. Especially when no one else does. In order to succeed in the arts in general, there are certain things you must have. First, you must have patience. Second, you got to have determination to make it in this business. Never give up when it gets hard because it will. Third and finally, you must have tough skin. You would face a lot of rejection in this business. Just cry and keep it moving. So, get out there in break a leg.

1. Vera Wang-Sarah Lawrance College
2. Bai Ling-Tisch School of the Arts
3. Samuel L. Jackson-Morehouse College