The musical theater conductor is one of the most important figures in any production. The conductor leads the orchestra or ensemble that accompanies the performances. The effort requires rehearsals with both the musicians and singers. A conductor must have a thorough knowledge of music theory, composition and the capabilities of various instruments (including the voice), as well as conducting technique. Many successful conductors hold Bachelor's and/or advanced degrees from respected music schools. A conductor must also have a gift for leadership and diplomacy in order to inspire confidence among singers and musicians who may have strong, idiosyncratic personalities or egos. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a conductor as of May 2008, was $41,270.
The director is in charge of every creative aspect of a show. He selects the actor/singers and works closely with the conductor, choreographer and production team to ensure his vision of the material is realized. He is responsible for seeing that all the elements come together--instrumental ensemble, solo musicians, singers, sound, lighting and design. A director must have a thorough background in the elements of theater, including acting, movement, writing and stagecraft, in addition to a background in instrumental and vocal music. He also needs to be able to relate well to both performers and production staff. Some directors pursue Bachelor's and Advanced degrees, while others jumpstart their careers by apprenticing to or assisting professional directors. College-educated or not, most musical theater directors pay their dues by heading up college, community and small theater productions before going professional. The average yearly salary for a U.S. director is nearly $87,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Because sound is one of the most important factors in the success of any show, the sound engineer is a critical member of the production team. Sound engineers maximize the quality of the sound in any musical theater production. This involves amplifying and ensuring adequate distribution of sound throughout the theater's seating area. It may involve mixing and modifying the sounds produced by the musicians and singers. Sound engineers need to understand how sound is produced. They must also master the use of digital and other sound equipment that allows for sound refinement, control and amplification. Some sound engineers start out as apprentices and work their way up by learning on the job. Others train at two- or four-year degree or certificate programs. In either case, remaining up to speed with the development of new sound technologies requires ongoing effort. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, salaries for sound engineers averaged $53,940 as of May 2009.
Lighting design is another critical component of musical theater. Good lighting can set a mood, contribute to a sense of tension or relief, and underscore the vision of the director. Lighting design, like sound design, requires a great degree of technical knowledge. It also demands a strong visual sensibility. A lighting designer must understand the effect of varied lighting colors--alone and in combination--and how lighting is best directed and distributed, in order to design a production. Many lighting designers learn the ropes by working in school or community productions before progressing to professional theater as their skills improve. They may also take individual courses or enroll in degree programs. However, even with a degree, nothing takes the place of practical experience in the theater. Theatrical lighting designers earn $29,000 to $47,000 on average, according to PayScale.com.
Acting and singing are among the most competitive of professions. Still, with talent, tenacity and training, it is possible to have a professional career in musical theater. Many actors learn their craft in school plays and musicals. Private vocal study from an early age is recommended for singers. Some actor/singers begin working professionally right after high school; others choose to pursue theater or vocal performance degrees at four-year colleges. Still others pursue Master's degrees in one of these fields. Actors must contend with the process of constantly having to display their skills through the audition process. They also have to deal with job insecurity and constant competition. On the other hand, a great camaraderie can develop among the cast and crew of a theatrical production. In addition, the adulation and satisfaction that comes with success can be enticing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly wage for an actor in the U.S. is about $29.00. The BLS does not cite annual salary figures because most actors do not work full-time all year long.