Employers
There are 152,400 producers and directors employed in the U.S. Stage directors work in a variety of theaters in various locations. These venues might include summer stock, regional theaters, Off Broadway, and Off-Off Broadway. Prospects become more difficult for individuals when they aspire to work as stage directors on Broadway or other first class productions.
While New York city is the major theatrical capital of the United States, the job market there is so competitive that it is often necessary to find work in other culturally active cities first to gain experience and build a reputation.
Starting Out
Stage directors often get their start by gaining experience in summer stock and dinner theaters around the country. Employment depends on a number of factors including the talent and experience of the individual. Other important factors include contacts and networking, being in the right place at the right time, and luck. Stage directors may also find employment opportunities in casinos and hotels which host stage productions.
- Actors
- Artist and Repertoire Workers
- Choreographers
- Circus Performers
- Clowns
- Comedians
- Composers and Arrangers
- Costume Designers
- Dance School Owners and Managers
- Dancers
- Lighting Technicians
- Magicians
- Makeup Artists
- Music Conductors and Directors
- Music Venue Owners and Managers
- Musicians
- Non-Fungible Token Artists
- Playwrights
- Pop/Rock Musicians
- Production Designers and Art Directors
- Singers
- Songwriters
- Stage Managers
- Stage Production Workers
- Stunt Performers
- Talent Agents and Scouts
- Theater Managers
- Writers