How do I become a theatre performer
Get qualified to work as a theatre performer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Theatre Performer.
Common questions
In Australia, a full time Theatre Performer generally earns $1,200 per week ($62,400 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
Courses.com.au Team
The number of people working in this industry has increased in recent years. There are currently 9,900 people working as a Theatre Performer in Australia compared to 5,100 five years ago. Theatre Performers may find work in all areas of Australia but are more likely to secure a role in larger cities where theatre productions are based.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
Courses.com.au Team
A Certificate III in Community Dance, Theatre and Events (Acting) is a great way to start a career as a Theatre Performer. This qualification covers a range of topics such as acting, audition and performance skills. You could also enrol in a Diploma of Professional Dance Performance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples or a Diploma of Musical Theatre.
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
What does an Occupational Therapist do?
15th September 2022
Most popular music and dance courses
17th May 2022All theatre performer courses
- 10508NAT Advanced Diploma of Art (Musical Theatre and Commercial Dance)
- 10906NAT Advanced Diploma of Performing Arts (Acting)
- 11052NAT Diploma of Professional Dance Performance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
- 21680VIC Diploma of Theatre Arts
- 22598VIC Diploma of Theatre Arts
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (Acting)
- Bachelor of Music (Performance/Voice)
- Bachelor of Music Theatre and Acting
- Bachelor of Theatre
- CUA30220 Certificate III in Community Dance, Theatre and Events
- CUA50220 Diploma of Musical Theatre
- CUA51520 & CUA60120 Dual Diploma of Professional Dance (Elite Performance) & Advanced Diploma of Professional Dance (Elite Performance)
- CUAWHS413 Incorporate anatomy principles into skill development
- Master of Fine Arts (Voice)
Theatre Performer careers
A Theatre Performer works in a role in theatre or musical productions to entertain an audience. You’ll perform an individual character role or might make up part of the larger ensemble cast. You may have to act, sing or dance in your role and you’ll spend a large amount of time learning your lines and rehearsing with other cast members. Theatre Performers are usually employed for a particular production and will have to be ready to audition for their next role.
Being a Theatre Performer requires a lot of confidence and the ability to perform in front of large crowds. You’ll need to be able to follow directions and should respond well to feedback. Theatre Performers have to be capable of memorising lines and sticking to their cues. It’s important that you are flexible and able to change your performing style to suit your current role.
