Chances are you remember the first concert you ever attended. Was it in a sold-out arena or an intimate coffee house? Did the performer go solo, propped aimlessly atop a stool while strumming a six-string, or did a quintet bellow stories of teenage romance whilst dancing in perfect unison with one another? Chances are you remember. Chances are, you didn't envy the guy with the guitar but the one who was hidden high above the action on stage, wearing black and helping orchestrate how the performer looked and sounded.
Opportunities abound for international students like you who are looking to study show production in the US. And it's not just concerts… you can learn what it takes to manage live shows, create the magic at major theme parks, and coordinate conventions that attract attendees from around the world.
About Show Production in the US
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for producers, directors, and other backstage artists is expected to grow as fast as any other occupation in the near future. As an international student, you will be able to get inspiration for your future by immersing yourself in the enormous concert circuit, Broadway Theater, spectacular amusement parks, and plentiful local fairs.
Lifestyle
The life of a behind-the-scenes artist is never boring. Depending on which type of event you are working on, your "office" could change every day as you reach a new venue. If you are calm under pressure, like working in teams, and enjoy creating solutions, this type of work could be for you. You could be hanging from a rafter, tucked in a back booth, or pacing the wings. You aren't just making the performer look good, you are creating an entire experience for those onstage and off. Wherever you are, you will need deep focus to reach the goal of a successful event. Hours and workdays will vary depending on the job you are assigned to. If you work for a specific company creating meetings and conferences, you can expect relatively normal working hours except for the events themselves. If you work on a concert tour, expect to work late nights. Your assignments could also depend on the length of the tour.
If you need additional funding to study show production, explore financial resource options like scholarships and loans.
Where to Study Show Production in the US
You could expand you repertoire by studying music business at Berklee College of Music, become fluent in the universal language of music at Full Sail University, or see what it takes to make it in the recording industry in Middle Tennessee State University's state-of-the-art studios. Wherever you choose to study, you are sure to take courses in media arts, recording, music history and business. A successful producer will also need to be able to communicate with and lead others, so courses in public speaking and written communication will also serve you well.
Types of Jobs in Show Production
As an international student, you are likely interested in learning of the many career paths you can take if you study show production in the US. Most producers and directors will have bachelors' degrees. Assistant, technician, and other positions can be attained through experience like acting, writing, or working backstage on production.
If you are interested in working on special events, then you could consider working in event or meeting planning. Many large firms in the US and throughout the world host conferences and meetings on a regular basis, and you could be the person to make sure that the flow of events, lighting, sound, and audio all works smoothly.
If you are interested in learning more about studying show production in the US, check back for a growing collection of articles. In the meantime, be sure to follow us on Facebook and ask any questions you might have through Twitter.
Show Production Programs
Visit the Study in the USA School search to find schools that offer programs of study in Show Production.
