I agree with [user]metti[/user]; if you are looking for ways to use your computer science degree in theater, lighting is not your field. You could work for one of the manufacturers of control desks and equipment, but that's just another desk job. However, media is a great way for computer programmers. I know the projection designer for the Ring Cycle, and he is quite brilliant at programming. He spends his free time experimenting with his lab at home so that the designs he ultimately comes up with are amazing.
The other thing you may consider is the rental/staging market that supports conferences. They are often in need of qualified IT professionals. Networking skills (for computers, not people) are highly valueable, especially in this economy where more conferences are webcast to provide for less travel. It will also be difficult for you to know if this is the industry for you unless you actually work in it. The difference between educational theater, regional theater, and corporate (for profit) theater are immense. When you spend years of your life in the industry and want to consider a career change, you will probably not be taken seriously as our industry does not have a positive stereotype. Even opportunities to teach will be limited if you don't have your degree in the field; colleges will often require a master's degree in the field to be considered.
Your parents have a legitimate concern. This is an industry that will chew you up and spit you out. You will need confidence and thick skin to survive, and persistence to take the abuse time and again. If you can do it, it can be turned into a wonderful career, but the failure rate is much higher than success.
Life in this industry in regards to travel does not always equate to seeing the world. Often times you end up in many different cities around the world and only get to see different venues, but not the cities themselves. But, definitely spend your time here on the forums. Read the threads mentioned above and use the search function. ControlBooth has been a resource for many in your situation, whether they end up in the industry or not.
The other thing you may consider is the rental/staging market that supports conferences. They are often in need of qualified IT professionals. Networking skills (for computers, not people) are highly valueable, especially in this economy where more conferences are webcast to provide for less travel. It will also be difficult for you to know if this is the industry for you unless you actually work in it. The difference between educational theater, regional theater, and corporate (for profit) theater are immense. When you spend years of your life in the industry and want to consider a career change, you will probably not be taken seriously as our industry does not have a positive stereotype. Even opportunities to teach will be limited if you don't have your degree in the field; colleges will often require a master's degree in the field to be considered.
Your parents have a legitimate concern. This is an industry that will chew you up and spit you out. You will need confidence and thick skin to survive, and persistence to take the abuse time and again. If you can do it, it can be turned into a wonderful career, but the failure rate is much higher than success.
Life in this industry in regards to travel does not always equate to seeing the world. Often times you end up in many different cities around the world and only get to see different venues, but not the cities themselves. But, definitely spend your time here on the forums. Read the threads mentioned above and use the search function. ControlBooth has been a resource for many in your situation, whether they end up in the industry or not.