BA, offered by the School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design
Step into the world of theatre with York’s Theatre program, a rigorous program that blends creative, practical, and critical training. In first year, all majors share Acting, Stagecraft, and Introduction to Theatre and Performance, building a solid foundation for careers in theatre, performance, and related fields. You’ll develop transferable skills—creative problem solving, leadership, teamwork, time management, and organization—while exploring directing, production & design, playwriting & dramaturgy, and theatre & performance studies. With state‑of‑the‑art facilities in Toronto, you’ll collaborate with peers, faculty, and industry professionals, access unique pathways, and experience a season of shows. In year two, you can audition into another stream or continue in the general program, with opportunities in extra‑curricular performances like the student‑run festival, PlayGround.
Career Options in Theatre (General)
Here are just some of the career options related to this major. As all degrees offer transferable skills, some jobs are more closely linked to this field, than others. Check Canada’s Job Bank for regional requirements.
- Actor
- Arts Administrator
- Audience Engagement Specialist
- Audience Services Coordinator
- Broadcast Coordinator
- Casting Assistant
- Broadway/West End Scout
- Content Creator
- Costume Designer
- Costume Supervisor
- Costume Technician
- Creative Director
- Development Associate
- Diagramming and Folio Coordinator
- Docent/Interpreter
- Drama Therapist (Note: Certification may vary by region)
- Event Coordinator
- Film/Video Editor
- Front-of-House Manager
- Grant Writer
- House Manager
- Inspiration/Program Coordinator
- Lighting Designer
- Marketing and Publicity Specialist
- Master Carpenter
- Motion Capture Technician
- Music Supervisor
- Podcaster/Radio Producer
- Prop Master
- Production Assistant
- Production Coordinator
- Stage Manager
- Stage Technician
- Theatre Critic
- Theatre Manager
- Theatre Rights/Publishing Assistant
- Theater Educator
- Theatre Technician
- Visual Designer
- Web Content Producer
- Writer/Playwright
- Youth Program Coordinator
- Zine/Content Creator
Some career choices may require further education, such as graduate studies or professional courses and exams. For detailed career descriptions and specific requirements, please check Canada’s Job Bank.
Entry-Level Positions in Theatre (General)
An undergraduate degree is typically sufficient for these positions, though some locations may require additional qualifications. For region-specific information, please check Canada’s Job Bank.
- Audience Services Coordinator
- Front Of House Manager
- House Manager
- Production Assistant
- Production Coordinator
- Stage Technician
- Stage Manager
- Stagehand
- Wardrobe Associate
- Workshop Assistant
- Box Office Associate
- Outreach Assistant
- Marketing Assistant
- Theatre Education Assistant
- Event Assistant
- Props Assistant
- Set Builder Assistant
- Costume Assistant
- Lighting Assistant
- Sound Technician Assistant
For career descriptions, visit Canada’s Job Bank. Some occupations may also be found on Career Cruising; for login information, navigate to the Career Centre’s homepage in Experience York.
Skills Developed through a Degree in Theatre (General)
Core Skills
- Stagecraft and Scenic Construction: Builds and installs sets, props, and rigging, integrating carpentry, painting, and safety with lighting/sound coordination.
- Costume Design, Construction, and Wardrobe Management: Creates and sources character-appropriate outfits, building and maintaining wardrobe, fittings, and care.
- Lighting Design, Operation, and Electrical Theory: Shapes mood and visibility through lights, cues, color, safety, and collaboration to support storytelling.
- Sound Design, Audio Production, and Live Reinforcement: Designs and runs production audio, including mic placement, mixing, and coordinating with performers.
- Front-of-House, Production Management, and Stage Management: Plans and oversees shows for smooth performances and audience experience, coordinating crews and logistics.
- Theatre History, Theory, and Criticism: Provides context and analytical approaches to interpret and inform practice, applying theory to design and performance decisions.
Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills
- Clear Verbal and Nonverbal Communication: Articulate ideas clearly, listen actively, and read body language to adapt messaging for diverse teammates.
- Written Documentation: Produce accurate notes, reports, and briefs to keep tasks aligned and traceable.
- Presentation and Public Speaking: Deliver concepts and pitches confidently with clear pacing and audience awareness.
- Professional Communication and Networking: Navigate industry conversations and materials to build professional connections.
- Collaborative Communication and Feedback Facilitation: Lead and participate in group discussions, giving/receiving constructive critique to reach a shared vision.
- Data Gathering, Research, and Archiving: Systematically collect, organize, and preserve sources and rehearsal/design notes for dramaturgy and production reports.
- Data Analysis and Synthesis for Production Decisions: Turn research and feedback into actionable design, scheduling, and rehearsal insights.
Management and Teamwork Skills
- Collaboration and Ensemble Building: Build trust and shared responsibility within an ensemble to realize a cohesive creative vision.
- Creative Problem-Solving and Adaptability: Brainstorm solutions collaboratively and adjust plans in real time while preserving momentum.
- Conflict Resolution and Negotiation: Resolve disagreements constructively to reach compromises that keep the project moving forward.
- Empathy, Inclusion, and Cultural Competence: Foster an inclusive process that respects diverse perspectives and addresses accessibility and power dynamics.
- Project Management and Accountability: Coordinate timelines, roles, and milestones with clear delegation and accountability.
- Information Management and Workflow Coordination: Centralize communications and documents with version control and clear handoffs across departments.
Professional Associations
Professional associations offer valuable insights into qualifications, industry trends, and career opportunities. They provide networking events, workshops, mentorship programs, and internships, as well as job boards and career development resources. Additionally, some associations offer professional licensing and regulatory oversight.
- Canadian Actors' Equity Association (CAEA): Represents professional actors, stage managers, and directors in live performance across Canada.
- Playwrights Guild of Canada (PGC): Advocates for Canadian playwrights, offering resources and professional development.
- Associated Designers of Canada (ADC): Represents Canada’s professional theatre, film, and television designers.
- Professional Association of Canadian Theatres (PACT): Supports the Canadian theatre community through advocacy, networking, and resources.
- International Theatre Institute (ITI): A global network fostering collaboration among theatre artists worldwide.
- Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists (ACTRA): Supports performers in live theatre, film, and television across Canada.