Careers in Theatre

Teaching drama brought with it many memories and experiences. I often wondered whether a child would be so inspired by Drama class that he would go on to making it into a career. I was never really able to brief them about the different roles they could take up in theatre. So here’s some valuable information that I would like to put on the blog as not only a guide but the fact that drama could be a very interesting career goal to pursue.

Careers in Theatre

1. Actor/Actress: If you have a passion for performing, becoming an actor or actress can be a rewarding career choice. You can work in theater, film, television, or even voice acting.
2. Director: As a director, you would be responsible for overseeing the creative aspects of a theatrical production. This role requires strong leadership skills and the ability to bring a script to life through staging, casting, and working with actors.
3. Playwright: If you have a talent for writing, you may want to explore a career as a playwright. Crafting compelling scripts that can be performed on stage can be a fulfilling and challenging endeavor.
4. Theatre Educator: Sharing your knowledge and passion for theatre with others can be incredibly rewarding. As a theatre educator, you could teach in schools, colleges, or community centers, nurturing the next generation of performers and theatre enthusiasts.
5. Set Designer: Bringing the world of a play or musical to life through visual elements is the role of a set designer. This career involves designing and overseeing the construction of sets, as well as collaborating with directors and other designers to create captivating stage environments.
6. Costume Designer: Costume designers are responsible for creating the wardrobe and costumes that actors wear on stage. This role involves research, design, and collaborating with the production team to ensure that the costumes align with the director’s vision.
7. Stage Manager: As a stage manager, you would be responsible for coordinating and overseeing all aspects of a production backstage. This involves organizing rehearsals, cueing the technical team during performances, and ensuring the smooth running of the show.

Theatre Schools

India is home to several renowned theatre schools that offer comprehensive training and education in the performing arts. Here are a few notable theatre schools in India:

1. National School of Drama (NSD): Located in New Delhi, NSD is one of the most prestigious theatre schools in India. It offers a three-year full-time residential course in dramatic arts, along with various short-term courses and workshops.
2. Film and Television Institute of India (FTII): Although primarily focused on film and television, FTII in Pune offers courses in acting and screenplay writing that can be beneficial for aspiring theatre artists.
3. Drama School Mumbai (DSM): Based in Mumbai, DSM offers a one-year diploma course in acting and theatre-making. The school focuses on imparting practical training and industry exposure to its students.
4. The Barry John Acting Studio (BJAS): Founded by acclaimed actor Barry John, this institution has branches in multiple cities in India, including Mumbai and Delhi. It offers acting courses suitable for both beginners and experienced individuals.
5. The Whistling Woods International School of Acting: Located in Mumbai, this institute provides comprehensive training in various aspects of acting, including stage performance, voice modulation, and improvisation.

Drama has always been a subject I placed great value to and it happened in time. While teaching I learnt the amazing outcomes it had in the students and it stopped being just an extra curricular subject for me. I think a career in drama would be challenging and thrilling at the same time. I’m hoping this informational blog is useful as well as inspires some to take an offbeat career path.