What can I do with a Theatre and Performance degree?

If your passion lies on stage, then a degree in theatre and performance is the perfect choice.

Whether you dream of performing, directing, or working behind the scenes, this degree offers more than just a job upon graduation. It offers a chance to explore what truly inspires you, whilst teaching you the transferable skills necessary for entering the workplace after you’ve finished your time at university.

Here’s your guide to the career paths you can take with a Theatre and Performance degree.

1. The obvious path: Performing

If performing is your primary pursuit, then there are plenty of performance prospects. You could become an actor in theatre or delve into comedy for example.

Whilst talent is key here, networking and building connections during your degree will help you to find opportunities. Thankfully, our teaching staff have the connections that could help you land your first gig.

Canterbury also has a thriving arts and comedy scene, and professionals from the Marlowe Theatre have helped with the development of this course, giving it both a creative and employability focus.

2. Behind the stage: Production and direction

If being behind the scenes is where you’re most comfortable, then you could pursue a career in stage production, management, or work as a set or lighting designer.

With an emphasis on gaining the practical skills that are essential to creating the most captivating performances, you’ll learn how to work within specialist and industry-relevant technical facilities.

3. The path to education: Teaching and outreach

Another option is to teach your passion for theatre and performance to children and young people. Embarking on a career in education not only inspires the next generation of performers but it gives you the opportunity to share your love of theatre.

Continuing your academic journey with a postgraduate teaching qualification could be a fantastic option for getting started.

4. The creative path: Entering industry

Your creativity doesn’t just stop on the stage. You could take your talents into a range of industries including marketing, PR, and events management. With your skills in teamwork, communication, and critical thinking, you would flourish in a range of sectors.

You could also explore becoming a talent agent, where you help to manage those who have chosen to continue their creative careers. With your in-depth knowledge of theatre and performance, as well as your ability to co-ordinate and network with others, working for, or even starting your own, talent agency may be your next career move.

5. The alternative path

Your degree isn’t just about acting and performing. It’s about storytelling, collaboration, and understanding people. That’s why theatre graduates can also find success in:

• Therapies: Drama therapy uses performance techniques to help people heal.
• Journalism: You can review shows, interviews stars, or write about arts and culture.
• Corporate roles: Use your presentation and people skills in HR, training, or sales.
• Tourism and heritage: Create engaging performances for museums, theme parks, or historical sites.

6. The academic path: Continue your studies

If you want to continue to specialise in a certain subject, then you can continue your university journey into postgraduate study.

Whether you want to pursue a Master’s degree or decide to fully commit to doctoral study, then a career in academia is another option.

Theatre and performance aren’t just about preparing for a specific job – they teach you how to communicate, create, and collaborate. These skills are in demand in every industry.

So, whether you end up on the West End or in the corporate boardroom, your degree will set the foundation.

If you’re ready to take centre stage, then apply for our Theatre and Performance degree.