Careers to Consider: Theatre and creative roles
This article is part of a series spotlighting HFC academic and workforce programs leading to great careers. To view all HFC programs, visit this link.
HFC’s Theatre program has undergone a resurgence in the past several years as Director of Theatre Dr. John-Michael Sefel and his colleagues have expanded and explored new spaces. He has overseen traditional plays and experimental theatre, and has showcased new, original work that made its debut at the College.
Our welcoming program provides a foundation in the theory and practice of theatrical arts, including acting, technology, design, history, and literature. By the time you finish our program, you will have the knowledge and experience to continue studying a 4-year educational institution, pursue entry-level theatre technology employment, or apply what you've learned to the many industries and careers that benefit from theatrical and creative skills. You can take classes, get involved with our production season, and even earn money while learning about the theatre industry through work study opportunities.
A vital part of our community
“I really want the entire campus – the entire community, if possible – to see us as a source of pride, as an entertainment and artistic feather in HFC’s cap. This includes really trying to drum up excitement for participation and attendance from all corners of campus and beyond,” said Sefel. “It also means finding ways to encourage the campus community to not only attend in droves, but to make it part of their standard college life experience. The arts are a vital part of any community.”
Your class schedule
Theatre Appreciation is the recommended first course in the program. It examines the components, methods, and history of theatrical production. Subject areas may include acting, directing, technical theatre, and more.
Acting I introduces basic acting techniques, theories of acting, and rehearsal procedures. It emphasizes modern and contemporary comedies and dramas. Students perform scenes from contemporary plays.
Review the full recommended sequence of classes and speak to your academic advisor before registering.
We always recommend you talk to one of our friendly, expert advisors to make sure you select the right courses, stay on track toward graduation, and prepare for transfer or employment.
The Performing Arts Academic Advisor is Sarah Krizan. To make an appointment with Krizan, contact her at 313-845-9889 or smkrizan@hfcc.edu.
Sefel is also available to answer any questions.
What skills will you learn?
You will learn the following skills in our theatre courses:
- Speaking and oral skills
- Creativity and vision
- Physical strength and stamina
- Audition strategies
- Physical fabrication
- Collaboration and cooperation on a timeline
- Organization and project management skills
- Resourcefulness (the ability to think on your feet and make decisions on the fly)
“The need for theatre skills is all around us,” said Sefel. “Theatre technology skills like lighting, sound, and constructing sets, costumes, and props aren't just used in plays and movies, but in theme parks, concerts, escape rooms, and all sort of exciting, immersive displays and experiences at business expos, showrooms, cruises, and festivals. Working as a stage manager on one of our productions, in which you end up being essentially the puppet master of an entire show, organizing, delegating, and calling every lighting and sound cue and running the entire arena, is better training for project management than any class I've ever seen. Even the actors are gaining extremely valuable skills. I know so many teachers, lawyers, and salespeople who prioritized theatre classes as part of their training. Even something like public speaking and the ability to think on your feet, which nearly every career requires, is something you develop in theatre. I've seen plenty of people overcome their fear of public speaking through one good acting class."
Possible career options
A degree in theatre can bring many different career opportunities, including:
- Acting
- Production management
- Scenery
- Lighting
- Sound
- Costuming
- Makeup
- Properties
- Special effects
- Technical support
- Communications
- Business
- Creative direction
- Mentoring and coaching
- Non-profit organization leadership
- Teaching (at the P-12 and college levels)
“Many students pursue theatrical skills for non-theatre jobs! From teaching to sales to communications and more, studying theatre is not just for people interested in the theatre industry, but for anyone who recognizes their career will be enhanced by presentation, improvisation, confidence, creative communication, and an understanding of one's ‘audience,’” said Sefel. “Earning a 2-year associate degree in liberal arts focused on theatre and then transferring to complete a bachelor’s degree in education, law, business, communications, or entertainment/non-profit management has offered many students a way to pursue stable careers while standing out from their peers and doing what they love.”
Transfer options
HFC maintains relationships with university transfer partners. Students who plan to transfer should work with an academic advisor to select courses that support their educational goals.
For questions or more information about the HFC Theatre program, contact Sefel at 313-845-6478 or jsefel@hfcc.edu.