We know what you’re thinking — what are my job options as a theatre major? The good news is that you have plenty of options! The bad news is, well, there isn’t really any bad news. As a theatre major, you can take on several different positions in theatre, education or even the business world — that’s because Texas Wesleyan’s theatre degree sets you up to learn the business and education side of the theatre and builds upon skills like writing, critical thinking, planning and more. 

Get techy with it as a sound and video tech or lighting engineer 

Ever wondered what makes a good production? Sure, having good actors and a script are key components — but none of that could be brought to life without great lighting, camera work and audio production. No one goes to a theatre to look at a black screen and hear whispers.  

As an audio and video technician, it would be your job to set up and maintain microphones, speakers, mixing boards, video cameras and more. With a theatre degree in design & technology from Texas Wesleyan, you’ll learn all about the technology that helps make the stage vibrant. With those skills, you could also work to produce audio and video needs for other situations, such as concerts, conventions, presentations, podcasts, news conferences and sporting events. 

If becoming a lighting engineer gives you spark, our theatre degree in design & technology can help get you there. You’ll learn the ins and outs of controlling lighting and coloring on the stage and how to work with the camera to make sure everything looks top-notch. Your skills can be used in multiple settings, such as photography, television, film, video and live productions.  

Take center stage as a performer 

Love being center stage? Becoming a performer can be a thrilling experience. From being a character on the big screen to performing live on stage, there are plenty of ways to be under the bright lights. With our theatre degrees, you can pick your path to stardom. Take up acting and learn how to bring a character to life using different tools and techniques you’ll learn from the experts in your small classes or dive into your dancing or singing skills in musical theater and show off your talents on stage. Either way, you can narrow your focus and concentrate on the talent you need to land that dream career.  

Manage the show as a director or producer 

Can you imagine how a film will look, feel and sound? If you’re glued to the screen in fascination with the camera work, lighting, sound and acting, becoming a director can be a great career choice. You’ll manage the creative aspects of production, helping guide the camera work, stage settings and how the actors interpret the script.  
 
Producers, on the other hand, work on the business side of production. As a producer, it would be your job to initiate, coordinate and supervise the production of movies, TV shows, commercials and more. You’d help organize funding, find talent and manage fellow employees. Many big productions need multiple producers — think executive producers, co-producers, line producers and associate producers — to help keep the project running smoothly.   

Create a better future as a teacher or educator 

As a theatre arts teacher, you can open the door for students to not only gain acting, singing, dancing and performing skills, but also help them establish confidence in themselves. Whether it’s working with elementary aged kids in school or creating an adult program at a local theatre, teaching performers comes with the great reward of knowing you’re making a difference in the lives of others. You’ll work with people to show them how to think critically, analyze text, make quick and thoughtful decisions and overcome their stage fright — these skills can be valuable everywhere from the stage to the courtroom.  

Work in sales, programming or publications 

It’s not a production without an audience – your ability to capture people’s attention and keep it will be invaluable as performing arts organizations look to grow their audience. In your small classes, you’ll learn the ins and outs of the theatre industry and how to promote and manage a production. And if you’re looking to dive a little deeper, check out our business tracks. It’s a great way to go even more in-depth into the business world and add on to your theatre arts degree. 

You’ll be able to transfer your skills across a wide range of industries. Imagine working every day for places like Bass Performance Hall, Disney or Casa Manana. They all need help running their businesses — and someone with knowledge of both theatre and business can lead the way.  

Not sure where to get started? Check out our different theatre degrees. No matter which degree you choose, our engaging educators are here to help you grow your skills and get a leg up — or “break a leg” — in your career.