The mission of the Theatre program is to give interested students the opportunity to study the practical, historical, and theoretical elements of live theatre. A well-rounded study of Theatre involves traditional classroom research as well as practical applications in performance and production. Work in the major is balanced between classes in theatre history, workshop-style classes in acting and directing, and hands-on classes in stagecraft and lighting. The student can pursue either acting or technical tracks.
Students selecting to major or minor in Theatre will find a program both diverse and practical in nature. The program integrates academic coursework and practical workshops with an active, professional caliber production schedule, which includes two mainstage productions a year and a variety of student projects. Scholarships are available for dedicated Theatre majors. Students should contact the Department of Fine Arts for details.
The Theatre curricula combine history, theory and practice while also providing opportunities to develop individual talents and interests. Study in Theatre serves as an excellent preparation for professional careers and continued education not only in theatre but also in the fields of teaching, law, politics, communication, sales and management. For non-majors, the Theatre program includes experience and courses in fundamental methods and content.
Theatre Major Specializations
Each theatre major may select a specialization which reflects the student’s theatre interests and educational goals. Following are Theatre Specializations:
- Acting Specialization; B.F.A. and B.A. degrees
- Technical Theatre Specialization; B.F.A. and B.A. degrees
- Dance Theatre Specialization; B.F.A. and B.A. degrees
Degrees in Theatre
The major in Theatre offers two degree programs:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.), requiring 18 credits of the Theatre Core, plus a minimum of 42 credits of specialization subcore requirements and electives.
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), requiring 18 credits of the Theatre Core, plus a minimum of 18 credits of specialization subcore requirements and electives.
In addition, students interested in non-major study in Theatre may choose:
- Minor in Theatre requiring 21 credits of TH theatre courses.
In order to fulfill requirements for graduation, students seeking the B.F.A. or B.A. in Theatre must participate in mainstage productions and must complete a Theatre comprehensive examination and integrative experience during their final year. A minimum grade of C is required in all major and minor courses.