Theatre Techniques & Design: Course Details, Admission 2025, Eligibility, Syllabus & Job Profiles
Pallavi Priyadarshini PandaContent Writer
Theatre Techniques and Design is a Specialized course that is taught under Theatre Courses and Dramatics Courses. Theatre and Techniques and Design Course explores the creative and technical aspects of stagecraft including set design, lighting, sound, costume design, and production management. It is ideal for individuals passionate about the performing arts and behind-the-scenes storytelling. This course is an excellent blend of creativity and technical skills for those passionate about the arts.
Theatre Techniques and Design Course is typically offered as a diploma, undergraduate, or postgraduate course. The Eligibility Criteria for Theatre Techniques Course varies from program to program. The UG programs require 10+2 with a minimum of 50%, while PG programs require a bachelor’s degree in a related field.
Admissions to Theatre Techniques Courses are often based on entrance exams such as CUET, CUET PG, or institutional tests and interviews. Top colleges in India offering this course include the Jawaharlal Nehru University, MIT School of Film and Theatre, MIT-ADT University, and Rabindra Bharati University. Course fees range from INR 50,000 to INR 5 Lakh depending on the Colleges.
Graduates can pursue careers as set designers, production designers, lighting technicians, costume designers, or stage managers. Entry-level salaries range between INR 3 LPA – INR 6 LPA, which can increase with experience. Renowned recruiters include theater production houses, entertainment companies like National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), Indian People's Theatre Association (IPTA), and film and TV production studios.
Theatre Techniques and Design Course Details: Highlights
Check key points related to various courses in Theatre in the table below which contains the highlights on course level, course duration, entrance exams, average salaries, course fees, top recruiters, and top job profiles. Candidates can refer to highlights for a quick reference:
| Highlights |
Details |
|---|---|
| Theatre Techniques &Design Course Level |
Certificate (6 months- 1 year) Diploma (1 year- 4 years) Undergraduate (3-4 years) Postgraduate (2 years) |
| Theatre Techniques and Design Popular Courses |
Certificate: Certificate in Acting, Certificate in Theatre, Certificate in Theatre Technique and Design Diploma: Diploma in Performing Arts(Drama), Diploma in Filmmaking and Acting, Diploma in Theatre Undergraduate: Bachelor of Performing Arts in Drama, Bachelor of Performing Arts in Theatre/ Dramatics Postgraduate: Master of Performing Arts in Acting and Theatre, Master of Performing Arts in Theatre |
| Theatre Techniques &Design Admission Process |
CUET, CUET PG/Merit/Direct Admission |
| Theatre Techniques and Design Examination Type |
Semester-wise |
| Theatre Techniques & Design Course Fee |
INR 2 lakh-INR 5 lakh |
| Theatre Techniques and Design Average Starting Salary |
INR 3 LPA-INR 9 LPA |
| Theatre Techniques & Design Job Positions |
Actor, Drama Artist, Theatre Director, Cinematographer, Theatre Teacher |
| Theatre Techniques and Design Top Recruiting Companies |
Film and Television Institute of India, Balaji Telefilms, YRF Studios, Universal Arts, Iris Media, |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
Quick Links About Theatre Techniques and Design Courses:
Acting Courses After 12th - Famous Institutions Offering Acting Courses, Classes & Training
Top Acting Schools in India: Offered Courses, Fees & Famous Alumni
Q: What is the difference between Film Making and Theatre?
Q: What is the fees required to pursue a course in Theatre?
Hi Jeenu,
The fees required to pursue a course in theatre can range from 10,000 to 1.5 lakhs depending upon the type of course i.e part time certificate course, weekend workshop, Advance weekend programme etc.
All the best!
Theatre Techniques and Design Admission 2025
Here is the general step-by-step guide for Admission to the Theatre Techniques and Design Course:
- Step-1 Choose the program: First Review the curriculum, specializations, faculty, and facilities after that check academic qualifications, entrance exam requirements, and any additional criteria.
- Step-2 Prepare Required Documents: Prepare all the documents beforehand so that no last-minute issues occur. The documents include academic mark sheets, certificates, University Entrance Test Scores (CUET, CUET PG, etc), and letters of recommendation.
- Step-3 Fill out the Application Form and Pay the Fees: Complete the application form provided by the institution. This may be done online or on paper and pay any required application fees.
- Step-4 Entrance Exams (if applicable): Register and Prepare for the entrance exam. Take the exam then wait for the result.
- Step-5 Submit Application: Submit all required documents along with the completed application form. Always ensure that all documents have been received and verify the status of your application.
- Step-6 Await Admission Decision: Monitor the admission portal or your email for updates on the results. If accepted, an official offer letter will be provided by the university.
- Step-7 Confirm Enrollment: Confirm your intention to enroll in the program and Pay the required enrollment or tuition Fees.
- Step-8 Prepare for the Start of Classes: Follow instructions for course registration and orientation. If needed, arrange for on-campus or off-campus housing and attend any orientation sessions to familiarize yourself with the campus and program.
- Step-9 Start Classes: Attend classes and start your academic journey.
Note: Be sure to check the specific requirements and deadlines for each program as they can vary. Some programs may also have additional steps or unique requirements.
Theatre Techniques & Design Eligibility Criteria
Below are some of the common eligibility criteria to pursue a Performing Arts Course:
| Course | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| UG Level |
|
| PG Level |
|
| Certificate-Level |
|
Note: This information is sourced from different sources and may vary.
Q: What is the eligibility criteria to pursue a course in Theatre?
Hi Rubel,
There is no stringent academic requirement to pursue a course in theatre, any graduate can opt for the course and there are even some of the certificate courses which you can opt for after 12th
All The best
Q: What qualification is required to do an acting course?
Eligibility criteria vary depending on the institution and the level of the course. Generally, most acting courses in India accept students who have completed their high school education (10+2) or equivalent. Some institutions may also require applicants to undergo an audition or interview process to assess their aptitude for acting.
Q: How can I enroll in Theatre courses after Class 12th?
Candidates can pursue various diploma courses in theatre and acting after 12th. Some of the Diploma courses are Diploma in acting, direction, dramatic arts, screenwriting etc. Candidates can pursue these courses either online which is a short-term course or pursue full-time undergraduate degree from recognised colleges and universities. Some colleges require candidates to appear in entrance examinations in order to be eligible for Bachelor's programme. They must also produce their Class 10th and 12th certificates in order to finalise their admission in their desired college.
Q: What is the admission process for PG courses in theatre techniques and design?
Some colleges give direct admission to the candidates while some conduct entrance exams to grant admission. Before taking admission in their preferred college, candidates should go through the official website of the college to know about the admission process.
Theatre Techniques and Design Course Entrance Exam 2025
Candidates are either given direct admission to the courses related to theatre techniques and design or through an entrance examination. The entrance exam consist of a written test and interview. Some of the top entrance exams for theatre techniques and design are as follows:
| Entrance Exam Name | Entrance Exam Dates | Entrance Exam Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| CUET 2025 | May '25 - Jun '25 (Tentative) | CUET Exam Date 2025 |
| CUET PG 2025 (for PG courses) | Mar' 25 (Tentative) | CUET PG Exam Date 2025 |
Note: This information is sourced from official website and may vary.
2 Jan ' 25 - 8 Feb ' 25 | CUET PG 2025 Application Process |
2 Jan ' 25 - 9 Feb ' 25 | CUET PG 2025 Application Process Online Fee |
13 Feb ' 25 | MAH AAC CET 2025 Application Last Date |
5 Apr ' 25 | MAH AAC CET 2025 Exam |
28 Jan ' 25 - 5 Feb ' 25 | NSD Exam 2025 Workshop cum interview |
10 Jan ' 25 - 15 Jan ' 25 | NSD Entrance Exam Registrations 2025 |
Feb '25 - Mar '25 | PUBDET 2025 Applications TENTATIVE |
Jun '25 - Jul '25 | PUBDET 2025 Admit Card TENTATIVE |
Q: Is CUET exam date announced?
National Testing Agency (NTA) will announce the CUET 2025 exam date anytime soon at nta.ac.in. It is expected that CUET UG 2025 exam will be held in May/June. The exam will be conducted in multiple slots each day. The number of CUET exam slots will depend upon the number of candidates registered for the exam.
CUET 2025 registrations will commence at cuetug.ntaonline.in. Candidates willing to appear for the CUET for admission to UG courses of Central, State, Private or Deemed universities must fill the online application form to appear for the CUET 2025 exam. Only registered candidates will be able to appear for the exam as per the schedule.
Q: What is the difficulty level of CUET PG exam?
The CUET PG exam difficulty level is depicted in the range of moderate to high. CUET PG examination is conducted into various streams and master's subjects, therefore it is difficult to say the difficulty level of the examination subject wise. However, the difficulty level of the exam varies from subject to subject.
The difficulty level of the exam also differs from subject to subject. As compared to the other national level entrance exam like IIT JAM, ISI Admission Test, GATE-B, IISER Entrance exam, JEST, NEST examination, the level of CUET PG examination is comparatively low-level. Candidates can expect the high difficulty level of the examination in comparison to State level entrance examinations like- GNDU, UPCATET, SHIATS, MCAER-CET, RUASAT, OUAT.
Q: How is CUET exam centre allocated?
CUET exam centre is allocated on the basis of the preferences entered by the candidate while filling the CUET application form. NTA allotes exam centre as per the preference entered and is subject to availability and logistical consideration.
While filling the CUET application form, candidates can select two cities of their choice. Choice of CUET exam centre cities will be limited to the State of permanent address or State of present address only. In case, there are very few candidates from a city, the NTA reserves the right to merge one, two, or more cities.
CUET 2025 exam will be held in May-June 2025 in computer based mode over a 15 days window. The exam will be held across more than 300 exam cities in India. Candidates will be able to know the alloted exam centre on issuance of CUET intimation slip or CUET admit card.
Syllabus For Theatre Techniques and Design Course
The syllabus of the various courses related to theatre techniques and design revolves around the topics like fundamentals of theatre and design, technical expertise for theatre, acting, lighting design, scenic design, costume design, set design, playwriting, direction, make-up design, mask-making, model making, carpentry etc. Candidates can pursue courses like MA in Arts and Aesthetics, MA in Theatre Arts, BVoc in Theatre and Stage Craft, Certificate in Theatre Arts and Holistic Development etc to make a career in theatre techniques and design. The syllabus of some of the courses are given in detail below:
BVoc in Theatre and Stage Craft
Given below is the semester-wise syllabus for BVoc in Theatre and Stage Craft:
| Semester I |
|
|---|---|
| Introduction to Indian Theatre |
Theatre Techniques and Designing (Theory & Practical) |
| Communication Skills in English-I |
Punjabi Compulsory/Basic Punjabi |
| Semester II |
|
| Tradition of Theatre & Designing (Theory) |
Theatre Techniques and Designing (Theory & Practical) |
| Communication Skills in English-I |
Punjabi Compulsory/Basic Punjabi |
| Semester III |
|
| Forms of Theatre |
Stage Craft-III |
| Personality Development – I |
Production Management (Theory & Practical) |
| Semester IV |
|
| Fundamentals of Direction |
Stage Craft-IV |
| Personality Development-II (Practical) |
Production Management (Theory & Practical) |
| Semester V |
|
| Punjabi Theatre |
Theatre (Creativity & Innovations) |
| Performing Arts -V (Musical Nukkad Play) |
Indian Television |
| Semester VI |
|
| Theatrical Costumes |
Theatre (Critical Study of Indian & Western Theatre) |
| One Production |
Event Management |
MA in Arts and Aesthetics
Here the students can get information about all the Subjects in MA in Arts and Aesthetics:
| Semester I |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Film Studies (Compulsory) |
Introduction to Theatre and Performance Studies (Compulsory) |
Methods, Materials and Meaning in Visual Art (Compulsory) |
Critical Writing for the Arts (Compulsory) |
| Semester II |
|||
| Indian Cinema Past and Present (Compulsory) |
History of Performance: The Indian Context (Compulsory) |
Indian Art and Architecture from Proto-history to the Eighteenth Century (Compulsory) |
Optional Course |
| Semester III |
|||
| Film/ Media: Theory and Aesthetics (Compulsory/Optional) |
Theatre and Performance Studies: Theory and Aesthetics (Compulsory/Optional) |
Visual Studies: Theory and Aesthetics (Compulsory/Optional) |
Optional Course |
| Semester IV |
|||
| Note: Students take four optional courses in the final semester. The list of optional courses is given below: |
|||
| Visual Culture and the Representation of Difference |
Bhakti Movement: Texts Contexts and Performance |
Indian Dance: Theory and Practice |
Art of Indic Asia |
| World Theatre Scene: Theory and Practice Interface |
Actor and his Art: Body-Mind Dynamics |
The Indian Temple: Development & Form |
Film and the Historical Imagination |
| Science Fiction Cinema |
Shakespeare on Indian Stage |
Textual Sources of Indian Art |
Global Art Cinema |
| Advanced Research Seminar in Cinema Studies |
Indian Temple Sculpture and Architecture 350 AD to 1350 AD |
Arts of the Mughal Court |
The Cultural History of Modern Indian Theatre |
| Music and Modernity: The Case of North India 1850-1960 |
Indian Terracotta Art |
Cinema and Modernity |
Buddhist Visual Culture: From Theravada to Neo-Buddhism |
| Sound Theories and Practices |
India Through the Lens: Photographic Practices |
Vijayanagara-Nayaka Art and Architecture |
The Arts of the Rajput World |
| Aspects of Musical Performance |
The Comic Traditions in Performance |
Folklore and Oral Tradition |
Museums and the Representation of Culture |
| Film Genres – Theories and Histories |
Asian Cinemas |
Contemporary Indian Cinema |
Cinema and Television in the Digital Age |
| The Indian New Wave |
Political Theatre in 20th Century |
Modernism & Critical Revisions |
Contemporary Indian Theatre: Movement & Institutions |
| Dance, Body and Society : Functional Perspective & Changes |
Music and Community |
Living Traditions of Indian Performing Arts |
Adaptation and Staging of Texts |
| Cultural Studies and Performance |
Asian Art: Post-colonial Paradoxes |
Non-Fiction Film Practice |
-- |
Note: In the III semester, students are expected to take any two of the Theory and Aesthetics courses as compulsory courses as well as two optional courses. If they wish, they may take the third Theory and Aesthetics course as an optional course.
Relevant links to the Theatre Techniques and Design Course:
Know the syllabus and other details about Masters in Performing Arts
Q: Is there a Bachelor's course in acting?
A list of the best Bachelors courses in acting is listed below:
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Degree
- Bachelor of Arts in Drama Degree
- Bachelor of Arts in Film Degree
- Bachelor of Arts in Musical Theater Degree
- Bachelor of Arts in Costume Design Degree
- Bachelor of Arts in Stage Management
- Bachelor of Arts in Screenwriting Degree
- Bachelor of Arts in Directing/Theater Production
- Bachelor of Arts in Theater History Degree
- Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies Degree
I hope this will help you.
Q: How are actors trained and prepared in Theatre and Acting courses?
The candidates who pursue undergraduate or postgraduate courses in Theatre and Acting have to complete Actor Preparation Training which is an essential part of their curriculum. The lessons taught under this area are as follows:
- Physical Movements
- Face Expression Exercise
- Stages of Hand and Leg Movement
- Acting Movement
- Stage Acting
Q: Are there any internships or placement opportunities available after Theatre Techniques and Design course?
Since success in fields such as Theatre and Drama requires individual qualities such as talent and creativity, candidates are advised to join a theatre group during the course itself. It gives them the experience to perform on stage and learn the nuances of dramatics.
Theatre Techniques & Design Colleges in India
There are various good Colleges that provide Courses related to Theatre which include Master of Theatre Arts, MA in Theatre, BA in Dramatics, BVoc in Theatre and Stage Craft, etc. These Theatre Techniques & Design Colleges provide excellent infrastructure and experts in the fields of acting, theatre, and filmmaking, which makes these colleges popular for pursuing Theatre courses. Here is the list of some Colleges that provide Theatre related Courses:
| Best Theatre Techniques and Design Colleges | Total Fees |
|---|---|
| INR 2,400 |
|
| INR 432 |
|
| NA |
|
| INR 3.62 Lakh |
|
| NA |
|
| Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Coimbatore |
NA |
| NA |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website/counseling body and may vary.
Theatre Techniques and Design Course topics you might be interested in:
CUET Performing Arts Syllabus: Get Important Topics, Exam Pattern
Q: Which are the top 5 acting schools in India?
Top 5 acting schools are:
- FTII, Pune Film and Television Institute of India
- The Barry John Acting studio,Mumbai
- National School of Drama (NSD), Delhi
- Anupan Kher’s, Actor Prepares
- Subhash Ghai’s, Whistling Woods International
Q: Which are the popular colleges to pursue a course in theatre techniques and design?
There are many colleges offering course in theatre techniques and design. Some of the popular courses are mentioned below:
- Jawahar Lal University (JNU)
- Central University of Jharkhand
- Central University of Punjab
- Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University
Popular Private Theatre Techniques & Design Colleges in India
Theatre Techniques and Design Career: Scope, Job Profiles, Salary, Top Recruiters
Like most professions, career opportunities in theatre techniques and design are also promising. Though you may have to struggle a bit as a newcomer as you gain experience, you will find ways to move forward. Below are the various job roles that exist in this sector along with the salary after pursuing Theatre Techniques & Design Course:
| Job Profile |
Job Description |
Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Actor | Theatre actors are often referred to as seasoned actors because they perform in front of a live audience. They must completely immerse themselves in their characters and display a variety of emotions. Effective facial expressions, posture, tone, body language, and confidence are the strengths of a good actor. | INR 2.2 - 20 LPA |
| Theatre Director | The role of theatre directors is not limited to directing, but they also write plays. Many theatre directors also act. A candidate can work for a big production house or even open his/her own venture. | INR 8 LPA - 98 LPA |
| Stage Manager | A stage manager organizes the various groups involved in a theater production's day-to-day operations. He/she coordinates with the cast and other crew members working on the same project and handles the responsibilities related to registration. | INR 2.2 - 10 LPA |
| Arts Administrator | A candidate with an artistic mind and an interest in business can become an arts administrator. They can work for art galleries, museums, ballet companies, musical groups, symphony orchestras, etc. Arts administrators working for theatres have responsibilities that include budgeting, fundraising, advertising, marketing, and PR. | INR 3.9 - 7.6 LPA |
| Art Director | An art director along with his team takes care of the natural requirements, graphics and construction of the set and makes the set impressive and attractive. The background of the play provides the real essence of the play's timeline, themes, experiences, etc. | INR 3.9 - 20 LPA |
| Set Designer | The set designer works closely with the directors and the design team to create the set. He/she takes care of the furnishings and other overline qualities. A set designer makes the set attractive by adding elements such as a miniature three-dimensional design to the set. | INR 3.3 - 4.1 LPA |
| Prop Designer | As the name suggests, a prop designer takes care of the smallest details on the set and delivers the right prop. His main job is to provide adequate supply to the set. | INR 2.4 - 6.3 LPA |
| Lighting/Sound Technician | Lights and sound bring the play to life and engage the audience with the story. Lighting and sound technicians play a key role in producing a successful show. | INR 2.2 - 5.6 LPA |
Note- The above salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.
Theatre Techniques and Design Top Recruiters
Theatre, as one of the popular courses in Performing Arts, is experiencing a growing demand in the media and entertainment industry. Furthermore, professionals trained in this art form are also employed by training institutes to teach.
Top recruiters for graduates of Theatre Techniques and Design courses in India are mentioned in the table below:
| Top Recruiting Companies for Theatre Graduates |
|
|---|---|
| Prithvi Theatre |
National School of Drama Repertory Company |
| Doordarshan and Other Broadcasting Networks |
Saregama India Limited |
| Zee Theatre |
HT Media |
| Iris Mediaworks |
Balaji Telefilms Limited |
| Ramoji Film City |
MTV |
Relevant Link for Theatre-Related Course:
Q: What are the job roles after Theatre Arts?
Various jobs options for graduates in Theatre Arts are in the field of Performing Arts are manifold and also offer exciting remuneration of around INR 3-7 LPA. Some of these job profiles include:
- Movie Director
- Playwright
- Set and Costume Designer
- Professional Stage Manager
- Drama Therapy
- Theatre Education
Q: What is the salary offered after completing Theatre course?
Candidates who have recently completed Theatre courses can expect to earn somewhere between INR 2-4 LPA. The salary and perks increase with experience and portfolio diversification of the candidate. This career option requires candidates to socialise and also showcase their talents through freelance projects. After gaining experience, they can earn between INR 8-15 LPA based on their number of projects and theatre shows.
FAQs related to Theatre Techniques and Design Course
Here are some important Questions Related to Theatre Techniques and Design Course in India:
Q: What are the top institutes to learn Theatre and Drama outside India?
Many candidates after completing their formal training in Theatre from India choose to learn it from top institutes outside India. Some of these institutes are as follows:
- Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, UK
- National Institute of Dramatic Art, Australia
- Tisch School of the Arts, USA
- Juilliard School, USA
- Guildhall School of Music & Drama, UK
- Oxford School of Drama, UK
- California Institute of the Arts, USA
Q: Who are the famous Theatre Artists in India?
There are many people who have excel in Theatres and are very renouned in this field. Following is the list of some of the famous Theatre Artists in India:
- Naseeruddin Shah
- Makarand Deshpande
- Girish Karnad
- Mahesh Dattani
- Dolly Thakore
- Rajit Kapur
- Lillette Dubey
- Sunil Shanbag
- Manav Kaul
- Akarsh Khurana
Popular Theatre Techniques & Design PG Courses
PG Courses
- M.A.
5 Colleges
News & Updates
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Taking an Exam? Selecting a College?
Find insights & recommendations on colleges and exams that you won't find anywhere else
On Shiksha, get access to
- 64k Colleges
- 968 Exams
- 627k Reviews
- 1500k Answers
- Ballet
- Ballroom Dance
- Bharatnatyam
- Hip Hop
- Jazz
- Kathak
- Kuchipudi
- Modern Dance
- Nattuvangam
- Odissi
- Salsa
- Editing
- Electronic Cinematography
- Calligraphy
- Computer Graphics
- Illustration
- Printmaking
- Typography
- Accordian
- Cello
- Flute
- Folk Dance
- Guitar
- Harmonium
- Hindustani Classical Vocals
- Khayal
- Mridangam
- Percussions
- Piano
- Ravindra Sangeet Shastra
- Sarod
- Saxophone
- Sitar
- Synthesizer
- Tabla
- Thumri-Kheyal
- Veena
- Violin
- Western Contemporary
Filmmaking and theatre are both art forms that tell stories through the use of visual images and dialogue. However, there are some key differences between the two mediums.