Im looking for a new line of work I like movies and plays I was wondering if I could be the lighting guy or the props guy or the person who picks out what the people should wear for a certain play or maybe someone who builds sets even. If any body knows how to get started in this line of work I would much apreciate it, and in Chicago please.
2007-12-11 15:23:33 · 4 answers · asked by Mike c 1 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Theater & Acting
If you call theaters up don't use the term "props specialist". That's not the correct term. It's Property Master.
You might be able to be put to use hanging lights, but with out extensive training you wouldn't be able to design a show.
If you have construction experience you might be able to get on a crew.
As for a costume designer, those people have had years of training and know everything there is to know about the history of clothing and fabric. They are also artists.
Chicago has a huge market for improvisational theater which doesn't require a lot of technical work.
If you have any skills, construction, sewing, or knowledge of stage lighting they might be able to use you. If not you might be able to get some work in a community theater. It's really best to be trained for this kind of work before you get a job professionally.
2007-12-11 17:22:42 · answer #1 · answered by Pants face 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Go to the local community theatres first. Most of it might be volunteer work at first, which means you might not be paid. You need to build a technical resume. Once you have some shows and experience under your belt then you might want to try going to the Steppenwolf theatre and apply for an apprenticeship.
Another route is actually going to college for theatre. Although, it isn't a requirement you will actually learn a lot and gain loads of experience. If you are interested in getting into design it really is a must to go to college. There is a lot more to designing a show than most people think. There is analyzing the script, research, drafting, drawing and sketching...the list goes on and on. Costuming a show can be a huge process. As far as lighting goes there is a lot to that field too, but you can learn that hands on and be trained to be a lighting technician.
Good Luck!
2007-12-12 08:51:09 · answer #2 · answered by mamabee 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Call the theaters in Chicago and ask if you can volunteer as a props specialist for their productions.
2007-12-12 00:55:16 · answer #3 · answered by newyorkgal71 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Start with an internship at a theatre in Chicago (there are so many there!)
2007-12-12 00:19:16 · answer #4 · answered by jefferson barnaby 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋