Theatre Arts
Chair, Department of Performing Arts: Professor Rubeck
Professors: McNeela, Wahl
Associate Professors: Otos, Sabo, J. Smith, M. Smith, Webb
Assistant Professors: K. Green, McGuire, Shawyer, Spensieri, Taylor-Hart
Adjuncts: Flannery, Hill, Johnson, J. Jones, Morgan, Sommers, West
The study of theatre arts can be a vital part of a liberal arts education. Creativity, collaboration, problem solving, communication skills and critical thinking are all enhanced by this study, regardless of the student’s eventual career goals.
The Department of Performing Arts offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) degree in Theatre Arts with an acting emphasis, a Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) degree in Theatrical Design and Production and a Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) degree in Drama and Theatre Studies. Two minors are available one in Theatre Arts; one in Theatrical Design and Production. The B.F.A. degree in acting is intended for the student who wishes to pursue a professional career in theatre. Students who complete this degree may also pursue further graduate training. The A.B. degree in theatrical design and production is intended for the student who wishes to pursue a career in professional theatrical production or design. Students who complete this degree may also pursue further graduate training. The A.B. in drama and theatre studies uses the interactive and interdisciplinary dramatic art of theatre to challenge students to reveal, understand, and communicate the human condition.
Please note that an audition is required for entry to the B.F.A. acting program and an interview/portfolio showing is required for entry to the A.B. theatrical design and production program. The A.B. in drama and theatre studies is open-enrollment — no interview or audition is required.
The course of study within all three degrees emphasizes a thorough grounding in fundamental areas of the theatre (acting, design and production, and theatre history and literature.) The B.F.A. degree in acting then explores script analysis, directing and intense training in acting. The A.B. degree in theatrical design and production explores script analysis, directing and a full range of courses in design and production. The A.B. degree in drama and theatre studies requires students to become proficient in textural analysis, theatre history, hands-on theatre performance, dramatic theory and independent research. To provide practical application of coursework, students are expected to participate actively in department productions. For those interested in a career in theatre, regular opportunities exist for contact with the professional world through master classes, guest artists and participation in regional and national conferences, conventions, auditions and competitions.
The minor in Theatre Arts is designed for the general theatre enthusiast. Students complete a study of the base-level skills in performance, production and theory, followed by advanced study in a selected area. The purpose of this study is to create more informed audience members and avocational participants.