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 and community to see us as a source of pride, as an entertainment and artistic feather in HFC’s cap. This includes engaging participation and attendance from all corners of campus and beyond,” said Sefel. “It also means finding ways to encourage the campus community to attend in droves, and to make it part of their standard college life experience. The arts are a vital part of any community, and I'm finding ways to cross-promote and engage in collaborations as all of HFC's Fine and Performing Arts programs grow and show ourselves as the cultural lifeblood of our campus.”
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)
“I’ve had students who were afraid of public speaking,” said Sefel. “Taking a theatre class helped them overcome that.”
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 who welcome our Theatre graduates. If you plan to transfer, please work with your academic advisor to select courses that support your educational goals.
Sefel is working on transfer agreements with additional 4-year educational institutions.
For questions or more information about the HFC Theatre program, contact Sefel at 313-845-6478 or jsefel@hfcc.edu.