The Business of Show-Biz – Understanding the Business Behind the Art

How many times have you heard the word “show business” and wondered about the “business” part of the phrase? Whether high school students want to get into the business or simply enjoy the theatre and want to learn more about what goes into the business behind the scenes, they need to have a solid and well-rounded understanding of the entertainment industry. And there’s no better way to do that than by getting an undergraduate degree in the subject.

Are you wondering what preparing for this exciting career entails? Here’s what someone majoring in Theatre or Arts and Entertainment Management will likely learn along their educational journey.

There’s More Than Just Acting

Often, people tend to think that those majoring in theatre are just practicing and honing their acting skills. Those actors want to move on Broadway or Hollywood, getting jobs as paid actors. However, that isn’t always the case. There are many different skills that are needed to get the business of show business off the ground, and plenty of careers behind the scenes that are taught as a part of a theatre degree. Here are a few examples:

Producers – The producers of a play, musical, movie or television show do more than just find funding to get it off the ground. They also work to get the rights to the script that they want to use, ensure that everyone on the production is doing their jobs, and work with the director to make sure that their vision for the production is being met.

Directors – A director is in charge of taking the vision for the production and making it a reality. They lead rehearsals, guide actors through their lines and blocking, work with the choreographer to get the dance numbers correct, and help get the actors in the right mood for each scene. There’s a lot going on, and the director makes sure that it all gets done right.

Agents – On top of traditional show biz jobs like producers and directors, there are also agents. People in this career field work to find jobs for the actors and actresses that they represent. They keep an eye on both Broadway and Hollywood, looking for productions that might fit what their actors can do, and then send them on auditions. They also help their actors manage the technical aspects of their careers, such as negotiating contracts, handling media and publicity, and providing advice and guidance.

What Makes Show Business a Business?

Like other businesses, show business is designed to make money for the people who are in charge. The producers, studios and other stakeholders are the ones who want to make as much as possible by putting on a good production. In addition, those who work under the producer and director or within the production are looking for a paycheck as well, proving that they can have a steady career in theatre.

Students who want to learn more about show business or build a career working behind the scenes in the field will need a degree in Theatre or Arts and Entertainment Management. Interested in learning more?  Request more information about our performing arts programs, today.