We CU Performing at Centenary University!
Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts: Musical Theatre
Combine acting, singing, and movement training while building a professional performance portfolio for stage and entertainment careers.
Working on a Broadway style musical requires talent and passion, but there’s no substitute for training
In Centenary University’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre concentration, you will explore both the performance and production sides of working on a musical. You will receive pre-professional training in voice, dance and acting, while becoming skilled at the technical aspects of theatre — from set design and lighting to stage management.
As with all of Centenary’s Theatre Arts programs, Musical Theatre combines conservatory quality training with the University’s broad-based liberal arts curriculum. Our Musical Theatre students graduate with a well-round education — able to take on whatever roles are ahead.
Students also have the exceptional opportunity to work alongside guest professional artists from theatre and dance through the Centenary Stage Company, a not-for-profit professional equity theatre company based on campus.
With attendance at Broadway musicals at all-time highs, it’s an exciting time to pursue a career in the theatre.
Work with the pros
Centenary’s Musical Theatre program offers students many diverse opportunities to hone their performing skills, including:
Two fully-staged musicals during the school year at the David and Carol Lackland Center, northwest New Jersey’s premier performing arts center, located on the Centenary campus.
Touring musicals at community venues as part of the University’s Young Audience Series.
Your Future
Academic Advancement:
Next steps include MFA/MA in Theatre, arts administration, stage management, design/production certificate, teaching certification, or nonprofit management credential.
Career Pathways:
Lighting Technician, Set Designer, Sound Engineer
Industry Outlook:
Technical roles in theatre are in demand due to advancements in digital stage technology and event production.
Regional employers include
NJPAC; Paper Mill Playhouse; McCarter Theatre Center; George Street Playhouse; Two River Theater; State Theatre New Jersey; Count Basie Center; New Jersey Ballet; regional production companies; school districts.
Salary Outlook:
$45,000 – $75,000
Getting Started
For New Jersey entry-level roles aligned to BFA in Theatre Arts: Musical Theatre Performance, a reasonable starting range is approximately $35,000–$52,000, depending on role, licensure/certification, employer type, and prior experience.
Early Career and Progression
Approx. $60,000 midpoint at about five years, with higher earnings in specialized, licensed, technical, supervisory, or high-demand settings.
Approx. $85,000 average or attainable mid-career benchmark around ten years, especially for advanced credentials, management responsibility, or specialized practice.
*Salary and Outlook Data