There are many roles in theatre that don’t require any qualifications, where you can work your way up. However, if you are pursuing a career in theatre that requires a certain level of skill or safety qualifications – such as working with electrics or at height – this might mean you need qualifications, although not necessarily at degree level.

Take a look at the Careers in theatre blog for a full list of all jobs that are available in theatre.

Here are some examples of roles in theatre that you can go straight into without a degree. You can use these as a starting point to gain that vital experience for you to pursue your chosen career.

Entry level roles in the creative team:

You can start yourself straight away as a freelance Writer, Director or Performer and can approach small scale/fringe theatres/youth or community theatre groups to gain and build up your experience. This can then lead to further work, allow you to add to your CV/portfolio and open up further opportunities to approach larger-scale theatres or productions.

Alternatively, there can be opportunities to be an assistant or an intern for these roles. This will also give you great experience and the chance to work alongside other professionals while learning from them.

Search all theatre opportunities here

Entry level roles in the production team:

Starting as Stage Crew is great way to gain knowledge and understanding of backstage roles, if you're keen to pursue a career in stage management, lighting or sound.

To pursue a career in the wardrobe department, you can look at becoming a Wardrobe Assistant or Dresser.

Find more theatre careers advice here

Entry-level roles in the customer service team:

Front of house, Ushers and Box Office Assistants are perfect roles at entry level. You’ll gain strong experience in customer service for you to pursue a career in this side of theatre.

Sometimes Writers, Directors and Actors take on these roles to work in between their contracts, as they are often zero-hours and flexible.

Find theatre vacancies with The Stage Jobs here

Entry-level roles in the administration team:

If you're interested in producing or the logistical side of a production company, starting off in an administration role is a good place to start. You will get the chance to work alongside people working in these roles and it will give you the experience of an office environment to pursue those careers further.

Published: 04 March 2019

Updated: 13 Aug 2026