Theatre Arts
Dr. Justin P. Cowan, Chair
cowanj@wcsu.edu
VPA 017, Westside campus
(203) 837-8476
Joni Johns Lerner, Associate Chair
lernerj@wcsu.edu
VPA 236, Westside campus
(203) 837-3984
Victoria Hunter, Department Secretary
Hunterv@wcsu.edu
VPA 143, Westside campus
(203) 837-8404
(203) 837-8912 (fax)
Faculty
J. Cowan, Chair, Musicianship, MT Rep, MT History, Musical Director, Director
J. Johns-Lerner, Associate Chair, Costume Design, Costume Technology, Costume History
M. Freedman, Scenic Design, Scenic Art, Technical Theatre
D. Gagnon, Theatre History, MT History, Play Struct. & Analysis, Senior Portfolio, Dramaturgy
T. Howard, BFA Musical Theatre Coordinator, MT Workshop, Audition Techniques, Director
P. McDaniel, BFA Acting Coordinator, Directing, Acting, Performing Shakespeare, Acting II, III
S. Trapani, Acting, Directing, Devised Theatre, Theatre History, Director
O. Wason, BFA Design/Tech Coordinator, Lighting Design, Design Fund., Technical Theatre
Adjunct Faculty
Michael Bartoli, Acting, Voice and Diction
Gabriel Bennett, Sound Design
Chris Bolan, Acting, Voice and Diction, Audition Techniques
John Bonanni, BFA Stage Management Coordinator
Donna Baldwin-Bradby, Director
Scott Cally, Lighting Designer
Clifton Chadick, Scenic Design, Computer Drafting
Anthony DePoto, Acting, Playmaking with Children, Directing
Arielle Edwards, Sound Design
Phillip George, Scene into Song, Directing
Kevin Geraghty, Video Production
Kori Hansen, Production Lab Supervision, Technical Coordinator
John Hickok, Performance Techniques, Acting, Meisner
Andrew Levine, Theatre Management
Mary Ann Lamb, Choreography, Tap, Modern, Combination Class
Jan Mason, Intro to Theatre Arts
Matt Newton, Acting for the Camera
Megan Osterhaus, Applied Voice
Elizabeth Parkinson, Musical Theatre Dance, Ballet, Choreography
Brenda Phelps, Costume Technology, Stage Makeup
Jeremy Powell, Applied Voice
Janelle Robinson, Applied Voice
David Sexton, Lighting Design
Jennifer Ture,y, Choreographer
Scott Wise, Choreography, Tap
University Assistants
Christina Beam, Costume Shop Supervisor
John Bonanni, University Assistant
Ann Gerschefski, Pianist/Musical Theatre Coach
Howard Kilik, Pianist/Musical Theatre Coach
Sarah Fay, Pianist/Musical Theatre Coach
VPA Support Staff
Chris Farell, Piano Technician
Eric Gomez, SVPA Events Coordinator
Kori Hansen, Technical Coordinator
Chip Machokas, Audio and IT Coordinator
Overview
Our NAST-accredited Department of Theatre Arts provides a strong professional training approach to the study of the art and craft of theatre. Students who pursue a BFA in Theatre Arts prepare for a myriad of professional careers as they relate to the student’s personal interests in Acting, Design/Technology, or Stage Management through our specialized and rigorous curriculum. Students pursuing a BFA in Musical Theatre prepare for professional performance careers through the BFA program’s intensive curriculum and training. For students interested in a broader/liberal arts theatre education, the BA in Theatre Arts program is the perfect place for a more expansive, less specialized, approach. While there is no audition or interview process for the BA in Theatre Arts Degree, the BFA in Musical Theatre degree, as well as all concentrations within the BFA in Theatre Arts degree do require an in-person audition/interview for admittance into those programs.
The WCSU Department of Theatre Arts produces six MainStage productions every year in our state of the art, 98-million dollar Visual and Performing Arts Center. Our productions include both musicals and traditional plays, and range in style and genre from classic to contemporary. All students in our department, regardless of degree program, are heavily involved in all aspects of these productions. Whether performing on stage, building scenery, hanging lights, running sound, contributing to dramaturgical research, or stitching costumes…upon graduation, our students will have had hands-on experience in multiple areas of production. Our students leave WCSU not only well-equipped with a plethora of skills in a diverse and expansive array of theatrical disciplines.
Our proximity to NYC (one hour to midtown Manhattan) gives us a unique opportunity to make excellent use of its vast resources, including hiring well-known casting directors & agents for our annual Senior Showcase, Broadway choreographers for our staged productions, and various guest artists for master classes. Many faculty members have worked extensively in the Broadway and TV community, and have received Tony, Drama Desk and Emmy awards. The theatre faculty also maintains close ties with professional organizations, activities, and research facilities within the greater tri-state area. Opportunities such as professional training workshops and performances by guest artists are regularly planned to introduce students to the professional environment through these connections.
Additionally, the Theatre Arts Department at WCSU has participated in The Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival (KCACTF), and has received many top national awards from the festival. Design/Technology students also have the opportunity to attend the national USITT conference annually, gaining access to the latest technology being developed specifically for the stage. Keeping our students up to date on the latest technology and trends is something for which we as a department take great pride.
Mission
The theatre department keeps consistent with the university’s mission to serve as an accessible and responsive intellectual resource for the people and institutions of Connecticut. The department provides a thorough, modern education in the theory, skills and technology of theatre production and performance that is tailored to the individual student’s background and career objectives.
The department believes in fostering a diverse student environment with an emphasis on professionalism and a commitment to excellence.
Objectives
To accomplish this mission the Department of Theatre Arts:
- Offers its students the highest quality undergraduate programs in performance, theory, theatre technology and design by professors that have worked professionally in their field and maintain high academic credentials in their respective areas.
- Emphasizes performance and production techniques, writing and theatre management throughout the undergraduate curriculum to develop students’ ability to understand and deliver appropriate performance and theoretical concepts and to apply and utilize these techniques in a professional setting.
- Provides studio and theatrical experiences using public and classroom productions to entertain live audiences. Our season each year consists of two main stage productions, two large-scale family shows, studio productions, and a variety of workshops and readings which enhance the cultural environment of the university and its programs.
- Organizes a New York showcase for our graduating seniors in both the BFA Theatre Arts – Acting and BFA Musical Theatre degrees.
- Organizes opportunities for students to perform off-campus at such venues as the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival.
- Provides a personalized learning environment for students through faculty mentored undergraduate research/creative projects and internships.
- Prepares students for graduate education in multiple areas of theatre arts and the entertainment industry.
- Assists students in discerning appropriate careers through diligent advising.
- Provides students with connections and references to professional organizations (such as USITT), internship programs and job placement opportunities.
- Arranges for New York theatre professionals to travel to our campus to conduct workshops in all aspects of theatre training.
- Provides and fosters the growth and development of faculty by encouraging research, attendance at professional meetings, publication and presentation of scholarly work and creative performance.
- Collaborates with organizations and institutions in all areas of the entertainment industry within the tri-state area to support professional growth of faculty as well as internship opportunities for students.
- Expresses its strong commitment to the community by collaborating with regional elementary, junior and senior high school educators to further our programs in children’s theatre.
Learning Outcomes for General Education
As per NAST standards and the stated goals for this degree, students enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and in the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre degree program are expected to demonstrate the following competencies upon graduation:
- To develop understanding and practice of theatre arts by focusing on the verbal, physical, visual and research aspects of the craft.
- To understand script analysis in order to develop an understanding of the relationship of production process to the period and style, content and structure of a script.
- To provide exposure to a wide variety of theatre repertory through the study of the history of theatre, its major dramatists, attending performances, and through the production of a variety of theatre works.
- To prepare students for entry-level positions in theatre performance, design and/or technology, theatre arts management and other entertainment industry-related fields, as well as, for continuation with graduate studies, and/or teaching.
- To encourage students to explore breadth and variety in their educational pursuits to enhance their understanding of the world around them and to give them greater career versatility as a post-graduate.
General Education at Western Connecticut State University combines course-based competencies with opportunities to explore a wide range of disciplines outside of a student’s major. The university has identified 10 competencies that support academic success and prepare students for life-long learning. There are shared learning outcomes for each competency, which are embedded in courses across the curriculum.
Competencies may be satisfied in the major, minor or any other area of interest. There are no rules about how many competencies can be satisfied in the major. The only rules are:
- All competencies must be satisfied (as listed here).
- All students must complete at least 40 credits outside of their major discipline.
With this approach, the university has created the opportunity for students to develop essential skills and habits of mind in disciplines where they are most engaged with the material. It is important that students explore ideas from several areas of curriculum outside their major, but without an arbitrary limit on that exploration.
Transfer Admissions
All students wishing to transfer into any degree program in theatre at WCSU must meet the criteria listed for each program, including those currently attending institutions holding articulation agreements with WCSU. All applicants will be assessed in the areas of their selected option for matriculation and appropriate prerequisite placement in courses within the major.
Transfer Review Process and Transfer Articulation Policy (TAP)
Western Connecticut State University, as part of the Connecticut State Colleges & Universities (CSCU), accepts credits for non-theatre courses as per the Transfer Articulation Policy for students with an earned Associates Degree. Information regarding this specific classification of transfer credits can be found at the CSCU website. For the 2016-2017 academic year there are no approved “pathways” for community college students to utilize TAP and seamlessly enter Western’s Department of Theatre Arts at the junior level.
Awarding of Credit
Credit Hour: A semester hour of credit is an amount of work represented in intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally established equivalency that reasonably approximates not less than:
- One hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out-of-class student work each week for approximately 15 weeks;
- Or the equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time;
- Or at least an equivalent amount of work as required in paragraph 1 of this definition for other academic activities as established by the institution including laboratory work, internships, practica, studio work, and other academic work leading to the award of credit hours.
Degree Programs in Theatre Arts
Bachelor of Arts
Theatre Arts
Bachelor of Fine Arts
Musical Theatre
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts
concentrations in:
Acting
Design/Technology
Stage Management
Minor
Theatre Arts
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN THEATRE ARTS (B.A.)
Description: This degree is appropriate for students who wish to study theatre within the broader context of a liberal arts education and to emphasize areas of concentration such as performance, design/technology, theatre arts management or theatre studies. Students are encouraged to explore breadth and variety in their educational pursuits to enhance their understanding of the world around them and to give them greater career versatility as a graduate.
Degree Requirements
All degrees at WCSU require 120 semester hours (SH). This includes major requirements, general education requirements, cognates (where applicable), and free electives. This structure provides room for minors, internships, and study abroad.
Required Courses in the Major: 45 SH.
| THEATRE ARTS CORE | |
| THR 100 Introduction to Theatre Production (FY) | 1 SH |
| THR 105 Social Issues/Justice in Theatre | 2 SH |
| THR 107W Play Script Analysis (W2) | 3 SH |
| THR 110 Theatre Management | 3 SH |
| THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) | 3 SH |
| THR 182 Technical Theatre I | 3 SH |
| THR 201 Playmaking with Children OR THR 289 Children’s Theatre Practicum | 3 SH |
| THR 202 Technical Theatre II OR THR 306 Costume Technology II | 3 SH |
| THR 279 History of the Theatre | 3 SH |
| THR 284 Costume Technology for Theatre | 3 SH |
| THR 286 Theatre History II | 3 SH |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab (at least 1 SH for 6 semesters). Course may be taken for 1-3 SH each semester. Students must still participate for 6 semesters | 6 SH |
| THR 383 Methods of Scenic Arts & Crafts | 3 SH |
| THR 387 Devised Theatre Workshop | 3 SH |
| THR 490 Senior Portfolio in Theatre Arts (CE, W3) | 3 SH |
| Minimum GPA for the BA in Theatre Arts = 2.5 in the major and a 2.0 overall. | |
General Education: All students must complete the General Education curriculum. General Education Requirements include both competency and breadth requirements. In some cases, major courses will satisfy competencies. These are indicated in the parentheses after the course title. For a complete description of the General Education program, follow this link. https://catalogs.wcsu.edu/ugrad2021/academic-programs-degrees/
Cognates: In some programs there are courses outside of the major that are required as pre-requisites or enhancements to the major course work. These courses may satisfy competencies and they will count toward the general education breadth requirement. If cognate courses are required, they are included in the list of courses required in the major.
Electives: All degrees require 120 semester hours. Elective credits are opportunities for minors, internships, study abroad, and just following general interests. We encourage all students to speak with their advisors about great opportunities for their elective courses.
Sample Four Year Plan: BA Theatre Arts
Four-year plans are suggestions. Plans change. Consult your advisor to adjust your plan.
| Semester 1 | SH | Semester 2 | SH |
| THR 100 Intro to Theatre Prod. (FY) | 1 | THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 |
| THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) | 3 | THR 110 Theatre Management | 3 |
| THR 182 Technical Theatre I | 3 | THR 105 Social Issues/Justice in Theatre | 2 |
| Gen Ed: Oral Communication (OC) | 3 | Gen Ed: Critical Thinking (CT) | 3 |
| MAT 100 Intermediate Math OR Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) | 3-4 | Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) OR Gen Ed: Breadth Elective | 3 |
| WRT 101 Composition I (W1) | 3 | THR 107W Play Script Analysis (W2) | 3 |
| Semester 3 | SH | Semester 4 | SH |
| THR 202 Technical Theatre II OR THR 306 Costume Technology II | 3 | THR 286 Theatre History II | 3 |
| THR 201 Playmaking with Children (CP) OR THR 289 Children’s Theatre Practicum | 3 | THR 284 Costume Technology for Theatre | 3 |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 | THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 |
| THR 279 History of the Theatre | 3 | Gen Ed: Information Literacy (IL) | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Intercultural Comp.* (IC) | 3 | Gen Ed: Intercultural Comp (IC, Rpt. 1) | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Breadth | 3 | Free Elective | 3 |
| Semester 5 | Semester 6 | ||
| THR 383 Methods of Scenic Arts & Crafts | 3 | Gen Ed: Breadth | 3 |
| THR 387 Devised Theatre Workshop | 3 | THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 | Gen Ed: Repeat Competency 3 | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Scientific Inquiry (SI) | 4 | Gen Ed: Health and Wellness (HW) | 2 |
| Gen Ed: Repeat Competency 2 | 3 | Free Electives | 6 |
| Semester 7 | Semester 8 | ||
| THR 490 Senior Portfolio (CE, W3) | 3 | Free Electives | 15 |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 | ||
| Free Electives | 9 | ||
| Total Credits Required for the BA in Theatre Arts = 120; 2.5 in the major and a 2.0 overall. | |||
* All Bachelor of Arts degrees at WCSU require that students complete a language at or above the elementary II level. Students who have completed three years of a foreign language at a minimum of a C average in high school have met this requirement. However, they must still complete at least one Intercultural Competency course.
Program Learning Outcomes
This degree is appropriate for students who wish to study theatre within the broader context of a liberal arts education and to emphasize areas of concentration such as performance, design/technology, theatre arts management or drama studies.
Specific goals related to the B.A. in Theatre Arts include:
- To develop understanding and practice of theatre arts by focusing on the verbal, physical, visual and research aspects of the craft.
- To understand script analysis in order to develop an understanding of the relationship of production process to the period and style, content and structure of a script.
- To provide exposure to a wide variety of theatre repertory through the study of the history of theatre, its major dramatists, attending performances, and through the production of a variety of theatre works.
- To prepare students for entry-level positions in theatre performance, design and/or technology, theatre arts management and other entertainment industry related fields, as well as, for continuation with graduate studies, and/or teaching.
- To encourage students to explore breadth and variety in their educational pursuits to enhance their understanding of the world around them and to give them greater career versatility as a post-graduate.
BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS IN MUSICAL THEATRE (B.F.A.)
Description: This degree offers students knowledge of and training in all aspects of musical theatre within a liberal arts context in order to compete for employment opportunities in the entertainment industry where musical talent is utilized.
Degree Requirements
All degrees at WCSU require 120 semester hours (SH). This includes major requirements, general education requirements, cognates (where applicable), and free electives. This structure provides room for minors, internships, and study abroad.
Required Courses in the Major: 80 SH.
| THR 100 Introduction to Theatre Production (FY) OR THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 SH |
| THR 103 Fundamental Ballet for Musical Theatre | 2 SH |
| THR 113 BFA Performance Studio (0 SH for 8 semesters) | 0 SH |
| THR 165 Stage Makeup | 1 SH |
| THR 171 Musical Theatre Workshop | 3 SH |
| THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) | 3 SH |
| THR 182 Technical Theatre I | 3 SH |
| THR 183 Applied Voice BFA Mus Theatre (1 SH for 8 semesters) | 8 SH |
| THR 207 Dance for Musical Theatre: Jazz | 2 SH |
| THR 208 Dance for Musical Theatre: Tap | 2 SH |
| THR 209 Dance for Musical Theatre: Modern | 2 SH |
| THR 260 Voice and Diction | 3 SH |
| THR 279 History of the Theatre OR THR 286 History of Theatre II | 3 SH |
| THR 281 Acting II: Scene Study (CP) | 3 SH |
| THR 284 Costume Technology for Theatre | 3 SH |
| THR 295 Musicianship for Musical Theatre I | 3 SH |
| THR 296 Musicianship for Musical Theatre II | 3 SH |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab (1 SH for 6 semesters) | 6 SH |
| THR 305 Dance Combination Class (1 SH for 2 semesters) | 2 SH |
| THR 372 Advanced Musical Theatre Workshop | 3 SH |
| THR 388 Acting III: Period Styles | 3 SH |
| THR 389 Auditioning Techniques – Actor | 3 SH |
| THR 392 Scene into Song | 3 SH |
| THR 401 Musical Theatre Repertoire | 3 SH |
| THR 402 Special Topics in Theatre Arts | 3 SH |
| THR 403 Transition Workshop | 1 SH |
| THR 490 Senior Portfolio-Theatre Arts (CE, W3) | 3 SH |
| THR 495 Senior Showcase | 2SH |
| Musical Theatre Electives: THR 244 Playwriting, THR 252 Acting for the Camera, THR 298 Performing Shakespeare, THR 386 Directing 1 (CT), THR 387 Devised Theatre | 3 SH |
| COGNATES | |
| THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) | 3 SH |
| THR 204 Musical Theatre History I: Pre-1943 (IC) | 3 SH |
| THR 214: Musical Theatre History II: 1943-Present (IC) | 3 SH |
| Minimum GPA for the BFA in Musical Theatre = 2.0 and a “C” or better in all courses within the major to count toward graduation. | |
General Education: All students must complete the General Education curriculum. General Education Requirements include both competency and breadth requirements. In some cases, major courses will satisfy competencies. These are indicated in the parentheses after the course title. For a complete description of the General Education program, follow this link. https://catalogs.wcsu.edu/ugrad2021/academic-programs-degrees/
Cognates: In some programs there are courses outside of the major that are required as pre-requisites or enhancements to the major course work. These courses may satisfy competencies and they will count toward the general education breadth requirement. If cognate courses are required, they are included in the list of courses required in the major.
Electives: All degrees require 120 semester hours. Elective credits are opportunities for minors, internships, study abroad, and just following general interests. We encourage all students to speak with their advisors about great opportunities for their elective courses.
Sample Four Year Plan: BFA Musical Theatre
Four-year plans are suggestions. Plans change. Consult your advisor to adjust your plan.
| Semester 1 | SH | Semester 2 | SH |
| THR 100 Intro THR Prod Lab (FY) | 1 | THR 113 BFA Performance Studio | 0 |
| THR 103 Fundamental Ballet for Musical Theatre | 2 | THR 182 Technical Theatre I | 3 |
| THR 113 BFA Performance Studio | 0 | THR 183 Applied Voice BFA Mus Theatre | 1 |
| THR 171 Musical Theatre Workshop | 3 | THR 207 Dance for Musical Theatre: Jazz | 2 |
| THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) | 3 | THR 296 Musicianship for Musical Theatre II | 3 |
| THR 183 Applied Voice BFA Mus Theatre | 1 | THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 |
| THR 295 Musicianship for Musical Theatre I | 3 | WRT 101 Composition I (W1) | 3 |
| MAT 100 Intermediate Math OR Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) | 3-4 | Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) OR Gen Ed: Breadth Elective | 3 |
| Semester 3 | SH | Semester 4 | SH |
| THR 113 BFA Performance Studio | 0 | THR 113 BFA Performance Studio | 0 |
| THR 183 Applied Voice BFA Mus Theatre | 1 | THR 165 Stage Makeup | 1 |
| THR 209 Dance for Musical Theatre: Modern | 2 | THR 183 Applied Voice BFA Mus Theatre | 1 |
| THR 260 Voice & Diction | 3 | THR 208 Dance for Musical Theatre: Tap | 2 |
| THR 281 Acting II: Scene Study (CP, Rpt. 1) | 3 | THR 284 Costume Tech for Theatre | 3 |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 | THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 |
| THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) | 3 | THR 372 Adv. Musical Theatre Workshop | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Oral Communication (OC) | 3 | THR 204 MT History I: Pre-1943 (IC) | 3 |
| Semester 5 | SH | Semester 6 | SH |
| THR 113 BFA Performance Studio | 0 | THR 113 BFA Performance Studio | 0 |
| THR 183 Applied Voice BFA Mus Theatre | 1 | THR 183 Applied Voice BFA Mus Theatre | 1 |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 | THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 |
| THR 305 Dance Combination Class | 1 | THR 305 Dance Combination Class | 1 |
| THR 392 Scene into Song | 3 | THR 388 Acting III: Period Styles | 3 |
| THR Elective | 3 | THR 279 Theatre History OR THR 286 Theatre History II | 3 |
| THR 214 MT History II: 1943-Present (IC, Rpt. 2) | 3 | THR 402 Special Topics in Theatre Arts | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Breadth | 2 | Gen Ed: Scientific Inquiry (SI) | 4 |
| Semester 7 | SH | Semester 8 | SH |
| THR 113 BFA Performance Studio | 0 | THR 113 BFA Performance Studio | 0 |
| THR 183 Applied Voice BFA Mus Theatre | 1 | THR 183 Applied Voice BFA Mus Theatre | 1 |
| THR 300 Theatre Activity | 1 | THR 403 Transition Workshop | 1 |
| THR 389 Auditioning Techniques-Actor | 3 | THR 495 Senior Showcase | 2 |
| THR 401 Musical Theatre Repertoire | 3 | HPX Online Lecture (HW) | 1 |
| THR 490 Senior Portfolio-Theatre Arts (CE, W3) | 3 | Gen Ed: Information Literacy (IL) | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Critical Thinking (CT) | 3 | Gen Ed: Repeat 3rd Competency | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Breadth | 3 | ||
| Total Credits Required for the BFA in Musical Theatre = 120; Minimum GPA = 2.0 | |||
Program Learning Outcomes
The Bachelor of Arts in Musical Theatre degree is a specialized professional training degree that provides students with knowledge of, and training in, all aspects of musical theatre in order to compete for employment opportunities in the entertainment industry where musical theatre talent is utilized. Students will develop the following skills:
- Vocal production and techniques for musical theatre sufficient to present complete roles in full productions.
- Vocal interpretation and role preparation skills that enable understanding and performance of roles in a wide variety of styles and formats.
- Musicianship, aural, keyboard, and analytic skills.
- Theatrical skills, acting competence, script analysis, stage movement, voice and diction for the actor, auditioning techniques, and related physical skills such as ballet, jazz, modern dance, tap and dance repertoire.
- Understanding of basic production elements such as make-up, costume, sets and props, and lighting.
- Knowledge of the musical theatre canon, along with its history and development within the theatre.
- Understanding of the entertainment business, its agents, and practices.
- Portfolio preparation of musical and non-musical repertoire for professional auditions and/or advanced studies.
In addition to Musical Theatre specialization, students will also develop the following skills:
- Students will demonstrate, through engaging with verbal, physical, visual, and research aspects of the craft, the value of Theatre as a profession. This will be assessed in courses like The Transition Workshop, Senior Portfolio, and through their production assignments.
- Students will understand the value of secondary theatre disciplines as they pertain to professional collaboration in their field and potential avenues for supplemental work in the field of Theatre. This will be assessed through courses within the BFA core, as well as any courses that provide supplemental skills and training outside of the student’s chosen concentration.
- Students will apply theoretical concepts through hands-on/practical applications of skill. This will be assessed through production assignments, casting, auditioning, and other practicum experiences.
- Students will analyze scripts, both contemporary and classic, and evaluate their merits and contributions. This will be assessed through courses such as Play Structure and Analysis, Design Courses, Management Courses, and Acting Courses.
- Students will create meaningful theatrical experiences as they pertain to their concentrations. Acting students will create roles, Design/Tech students will create scenery and/or realize their designs, Management students will create processes and procedures for successful rehearsal and performance of productions. This will be assessed through courses in Acting, Design, and Management. As well as through production assignments and casting.
Students will create professional portfolios and audition packages to advance their careers post-graduation. This will be assessed through courses in Transition Workshop, Senior Portfolio, and Senior Showcase.
Admission Auditions for Musical Theatre Degree Program
Students wishing to pursue a BFA in Musical Theatre degree in the Department of theatre Arts must adhere to the following criteria for admission:
Perform and pass a prescreen audition, and an in-person audition, for members of the faculty. The student, through this audition process, must exhibit the standards and skill sets required for entry into the Musical Theatre program, including:
- Ability to effectively perform with accompaniment two songs, one ballad and one uptempo. One song should be written prior to 1970. This song can be either the uptempo or the ballad (student’s choice). One song should be written after 1970 and contrast the style of the first.
- Ability to perform a 60-90 second contemporary monologue (written during the 20thCentury-present) from a published play.
- Ability to learn and perform a short dance phrase that demonstrates movement skills. (On Site Audition Only)
- Provide three copies of a picture and resume at the time of your audition.
- Fulfill general admission guidelines found in the catalog for the university, school, and department.
Information regarding audition dates and specific audition requirements can be found online or by contacting the Department of Theatre Arts at (203) 837-8250.
BFA Theatre Arts: Acting
Description: The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts at WCSU is the newest degree in our nationally-recognized Department of Theatre Arts. Within a liberal arts setting, this professional program provides students with knowledge of, and training in, all aspects of theatre while offering three distinct concentrations in which students can hone their specific skills. Those three options are: Acting, Design/Tech, and Stage Management.
Degree Requirements
All degrees at WCSU require 120 semester hours (SH). This includes major requirements, general education requirements, cognates (where applicable), and free electives. This structure provides room for minors, internships, and study abroad.
Required Courses in the Major: 80 SH.
| BFA THEATRE ARTS CORE (30 SH) | |
| THR 100 Introduction to Theatre Production Lab (FY) | 1 SH |
| THR 105 Social Issues and Justice in Theatre | 2 SH |
| THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) | 3 SH |
| THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) | 3 SH |
| THR 182 Technical Theatre I | 3 SH |
| THR 279 History of Theatre | 3 SH |
| THR 284 Costume Technology for Theatre | 3 SH |
| THR 286 Theatre History II | 3 SH |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab (at least 1 SH for 6 semesters). May be taken for 1-3 SH each semester. Students must still participate for 6 semesters. | 6 SH |
| THR 490 Senior Portfolio in Theatre Arts (CE, W3) | 3 SH |
| Acting Option (50 SH) | |
| THR 113 BFA Performance Studio (0 SH for 8 semesters) | 0 SH |
| THR 150 Performance Techniques | 3 SH |
| THR 165 Stage Makeup | 1 SH |
| THR 201 Playmaking with Children OR THR 289 Children’s Theatre Practicum | 3 SH |
| THR 202 Technical Theatre II OR THR 306 Costume Technology II OR THR 383 Methods of Scenic Arts and Crafts | 3 SH |
| THR 252 Acting for the Camera | 3 SH |
| THR 260 Voice and Diction | 3 SH |
| THR 261 Dialect for the Stage | 2 SH |
| THR 271 Meisner Technique | 3 SH |
| THR 281 Acting II: Scene Study (CP) | 3 SH |
| THR 293 Stage Combat | 2 SH |
| THR 386 Directing I (CT) | 3 SH |
| THR 387 Devised Theatre Workshop | 3 SH |
| THR 388 Acting III: Period Styles | 3 SH |
| THR 389 Audition Techniques-Actor | 3 SH |
| THR 403 The Transition Workshop | 1 SH |
| THR 488 Acting IV: Performing Shakespeare | 3 SH |
| THR 495 Senior Showcase | 2 SH |
| THR Electives | 6 SH |
| COGNATE | |
| HPX 150 Dance Workshop | 3 SH |
| Minimum GPA for BFA Theatre Arts = 2.0 and a “C” or better in all courses within the major to count toward graduation. |
General Education: All students must complete the General Education curriculum. General Education Requirements include both competency and breadth requirements. In some cases, major courses will satisfy competencies. These are indicated in the parentheses after the course title. For a complete description of the General Education program, follow this link. https://catalogs.wcsu.edu/ugrad2021/academic-programs-degrees/
Cognates: In some programs there are courses outside of the major that are required as pre-requisites or enhancements to the major course work. These courses may satisfy competencies and they will count toward the general education breadth requirement. If cognate courses are required, they are included in the list of courses required in the major.
Electives: All degrees require 120 semester hours. Elective credits are opportunities for minors, internships, study abroad, and just following general interests. We encourage all students to speak with their advisors about great opportunities for their elective courses.
Sample Four Year Plan: BFA Theatre Arts: Acting
Four-year plans are suggestions. Plans change. Consult your advisor to adjust your plan.
| Semester 1 | SH | Semester 2 | SH |
| THR 100 Intro to Theatre Prod Lab (FY) | 1 | THR 284 Costume Tech. for Theatre OR THR 182 Tech Theatre I | 3 |
| THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) | 3 | THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 |
| THR 182 Tech Theatre I OR THR 284 Costume Tech. for Theatre | 3 | THR 165 Stage Makeup | 1 |
| THR 113 BFA Performance | 0 | THR 105 Social Issues and Justice in Theatre | 2 |
| THR 150 Performance Techniques | 3 | THR 260 Voice and Diction | 3 |
| HPX 150 Dance Workshop | 3 | THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Writing Tier 1 (W1) | 3 | THR 113 BFA Performance | 0 |
| 3 | Gen Ed: Oral Communication (OC) | 3 | |
| Semester 3 | SH | Semester 4 | SH |
| THR 279 History of Theatre | 3 | THR 286 Theatre History II | 3 |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 | THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 |
| THR 261 Dialects for the Stage | 2 | THR 201 Playmaking w/ Children (CP) OR THR 289 Children’s Pract. | 3 |
| THR 271 Meisner Technique | 3 | THR 281 Acting II: Scene Study (CP, Rpt. 1) | 3 |
| THR Elective | 3 | THR 113 BFA Performance | 0 |
| THR 113 BFA Performance | 0 | Gen Ed: Intercultural (IC, Rpt. 2) | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Intercultural (IC) | 3 | Gen Ed: Information Literacy (IL) | 3 |
| Semester 5 | SH | Semester 6 | SH |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 | THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 |
| THR 388 Acting III: Period Styles | 3 | THR 293 Stage Combat | 2 |
| THR 252 Acting for the Camera | 3 | THR 488 Acting IV: Performing Shakespeare | 3 |
| THR 202 Tech Theatre II OR THR 306 Costume Tech. II OR THR 383 Methods of Scenic Arts & Crafts | 3 | THR 386 Directing I (CT) OR THR 387 Devised Theatre Workshop | 3 |
| THR 113 BFA Performance Studio | 0 | THR 113 BFA Performance Studio | 0 |
| Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) | 3 | Gen Ed: Scientific Inquiry (SI) | 4 |
| Gen Ed: Health & Wellness (HW) | 2 | ||
| Semester 7 | SH | Semester 8 | SH |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 | THR 403 The Transition Workshop | 1 |
| THR 490 Senior Portfolio (CE, W3) | 3 | THR 495 Senior Showcase | 2 |
| THR 389 Audition Techniques- Actor | 3 | THR Elective | 3 |
| THR 387 Devised Theatre Workshop OR THR 386 Directing I (CT) | 3 | THR 113 BFA Performance Studio | 0 |
| THR 113 BFA Performance Studio | 0 | Gen Ed: Breadth | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Repeat 3rd Competency | 3 | Gen Ed: Breadth | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Breadth | 3 | ||
| Total Credits Required for the BFA in Theatre Arts = 120; Minimum GPA 2.0 | |||
Program Learning Outcomes
The BFA in Theatre Arts degree offers students knowledge of and professional training in three specific areas of theatre within a liberal arts context in order to compete for employment opportunities in the entertainment industry where theatrical talent is utilized. These three areas of concentration are: Acting, Design/Technology, and Stage Management.
Students will develop the following skills:
- Students will demonstrate, through engaging with verbal, physical, visual, and research aspects of the craft, the value of Theatre as a profession. This will be assessed in courses like The Transition Workshop, Senior Portfolio, and through their production assignments.
- Students will understand the value of secondary theatre disciplines as they pertain to professional collaboration in their field and potential avenues for supplemental work in the field of Theatre. This will be assessed through courses within the BFA core, as well as any courses that provide supplemental skills and training outside of the student’s chosen concentration.
- Students will apply theoretical concepts through hands-on/practical applications of skill. This will be assessed through production assignments, casting, auditioning, and other practicum experiences.
- Students will analyze scripts, both contemporary and classic, and evaluate their merits and contributions. This will be assessed through courses such as Play Structure and Analysis, Design Courses, Management Courses, and Acting Courses.
- Students will create meaningful theatrical experiences as they pertain to their concentrations. Acting students will create roles, Design/Tech students will create scenery and/or realize their designs, Management students will create processes and procedures for successful rehearsal and performance of productions. This will be assessed through courses in Acting, Design, and Management. As well as through production assignments and casting.
- Students will create professional portfolios and audition packages to advance their careers post-graduation. This will be assessed through courses in Transition Workshop, Senior Portfolio, and Senior Showcase.
BFA Theatre Arts: Design/Tech
Description: The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts at WCSU is the newest degree in our nationally-recognized Department of Theatre Arts. Within a liberal arts setting, this professional program provides students with knowledge of, and training in, all aspects of theatre while offering three distinct concentrations in which students can hone their specific skills. Those three options are: Acting, Design/Tech, and Stage Management.
Degree Requirements
All degrees at WCSU require 120 semester hours (SH). This includes major requirements, general education requirements, cognates (where applicable), and free electives. This structure provides room for minors, internships, and study abroad.
Required Courses in the Major: 80 SH.
| BFA THEATRE ARTS CORE (30 SH) | |
| THR 100 Introduction to Theatre Production Lab (FY) | 1 SH |
| THR 105 Social Issues and Justice in Theatre | 2 SH |
| THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) | 3 SH |
| THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) | 3 SH |
| THR 182 Technical Theatre I | 3 SH |
| THR 279 History of Theatre | 3 SH |
| THR 284 Costume Technology for Theatre | 3 SH |
| THR 286 Theatre History II | 3 SH |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab (at least 1 SH for 6 semesters). May be taken for 1-3 SH each semester. Students must still participate for 6 semesters. | 6 SH |
| THR 490 Senior Portfolio in Theatre Arts (CE, W3) | 3 SH |
| Design/Tech Option (50 SH) | |
| THR 125 Design Fundamentals for Theatre | 3 SH |
| THR 202 Technical Theatre II | 3 SH |
| THR 210 Stage Management | 3 SH |
| THR 283 Scenic Design | 3 SH |
| THR 302 Costume Design | 3 SH |
| THR 304 Computer Drafting/Design for Theatre | 3 SH |
| THR 306 Costume Technology II | 3 SH |
| THR 307 Allied Craft in 3D for Stage | 3 SH |
| THR 308 Sound Design | 3 SH |
| THR 312 Evolution of Fashion | 3 SH |
| THR 383 Methods of Scenic Arts and Crafts | 3 SH |
| THR 384 Fundamentals of Stage Lighting | 3 SH |
| THR 390 Play Production | 3 SH |
| THR 394 Adv. Stage Lighting and Design | 3 SH |
| THR 403 The Transition Workshop | 1 SH |
| THR Electives | 7 SH |
| COGNATE | |
| ART 100 Hist. & Appr. of Art Beg. to Ren. OR ART 101 Hist. & Appr. of Art Ren. to Present | 3 SH |
| ART 141 Drawing I (CP) | 3 SH |
| Minimum GPA for BFA Theatre Arts = 2.0 and a “C” or better in all courses within the major to count toward graduation. |
General Education: All students must complete the General Education curriculum. General Education Requirements include both competency and breadth requirements. In some cases, major courses will satisfy competencies. These are indicated in the parentheses after the course title. For a complete description of the General Education program, follow this link. https://catalogs.wcsu.edu/ugrad2021/academic-programs-degrees/
Cognates: In some programs there are courses outside of the major that are required as pre-requisites or enhancements to the major course work. These courses may satisfy competencies and they will count toward the general education breadth requirement. If cognate courses are required, they are included in the list of courses required in the major.
Electives: All degrees require 120 semester hours. Elective credits are opportunities for minors, internships, study abroad, and just following general interests. We encourage all students to speak with their advisors about great opportunities for their elective courses.
Sample Four Year Plan: BFA Theatre Arts: Design/Tech
Four-year plans are suggestions. Plans change. Consult your advisor to adjust your plan.
| Semester 1 | SH | Semester 2 | SH |
| THR 100 Intro to Theatre Prod Lab (FY) | 1 | THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) | 3 |
| THR 182 Technical Theatre I | 3 | THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) | 3 |
| THR 105 Social Issues and Justice in Theatre | 2 | THR 284 Costume Technology for Theatre | 3 |
| THR 125 Design Fundamentals for Theatre (CP) | 3 | THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 |
| ART 100 Hist. & Appr. Of Art Beg. To Ren. OR ART 101 Hist. & Appr. Of Art Ren. To Present | 3 | THR 383 Methods of Scenic Arts and Crafts | 3 |
| COM 146 Basic Video Production (CP Rpt. 1, IL) | 3 | Gen Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Writing I (W1) OR Gen Ed: Breadth | 3 | ||
| Semester 3 | SH | Semester 4 | SH |
| THR 279 History of Theatre | 3 | THR 286 Theatre History II | 3 |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 | THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 |
| THR 202 Technical Theatre II | 3 | THR 304 Computer Drafting/Design for Theatre | 3 |
| THR 210 Stage Management | 3 | THR 306 Costume Tech II | 3 |
| THR 384 Fundamentals of Stage Lighting | 3 | THR 307 Allied Craft in 3D for Stage | 3 |
| ART 141 Drawing I (CP) | 3 | Gen Ed: Critical Thinking (CT) | 3 |
| Semester 5 | SH | Semester 6 | SH |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 | THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 |
| THR 283 Scenic Design | 3 | THR 394 Adv. Stage Lighting and Design | 3 |
| THR 312 Evolution of Fashion | 3 | THR 302 Costume Design | 3 |
| THR 308 Sound Design | 3 | THR 390 Play Production | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Intercultural (IC) | 3 | Gen Ed: Intercultural (IC, Rpt. 2) | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Health & Wellness (HW) | 2 | ||
| Semester 7 | SH | Semester 8 | SH |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 | THR 403 The Transition Workshop | 1 |
| THR 490 Senior Portfolio (CE, W3) | 3 | THR Elective | 3 |
| THR Elective | 4 | Gen Ed: Repeat Competency 3 | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Oral Communication (OC) | 3 | Gen Ed: Breadth | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Scientific Inquiry (SI) | 4 | Gen Ed: Breadth | 3 |
| Total Credits Required for the BFA in Theatre Arts = 120; Minimum GPA 2.0 | |||
Program Learning Outcomes
This degree offers students knowledge of and professional training in three specific areas of theatre within a liberal arts context in order to compete for employment opportunities in the entertainment industry where theatrical talent is utilized. These three areas of concentration are: Acting, Design/Technology, and Stage Management. Students will develop the following skills:
- Students will demonstrate, through engaging with verbal, physical, visual, and research aspects of the craft, the value of Theatre as a profession. This will be assessed in courses like The Transition Workshop, Senior Portfolio, and through their production assignments.
- Students will understand the value of secondary theatre disciplines as they pertain to professional collaboration in their field and potential avenues for supplemental work in the field of Theatre. This will be assessed through courses within the BFA core, as well as any courses that provide supplemental skills and training outside of the student’s chosen concentration.
- Students will apply theoretical concepts through hands-on/practical applications of skill. This will be assessed through production assignments, casting, auditioning, and other practicum experiences.
- Students will analyze scripts, both contemporary and classic, and evaluate their merits and contributions. This will be assessed through courses such as Play Structure and Analysis, Design Courses, Management Courses, and Acting Courses.
- Students will create meaningful theatrical experiences as they pertain to their concentrations. Acting students will create roles, Design/Tech students will create scenery and/or realize their designs, Management students will create processes and procedures for successful rehearsal and performance of productions. This will be assessed through courses in Acting, Design, and Management. As well as through production assignments and casting.
- Students will create professional portfolios and audition packages to advance their careers post-graduation. This will be assessed through courses in Transition Workshop, Senior Portfolio, and Senior Showcase.
BFA Theatre Arts: Stage Management
Description: The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts at WCSU is the newest degree in our nationally-recognized Department of Theatre Arts. Within a liberal arts setting, this professional program provides students with knowledge of, and training in, all aspects of theatre while offering three distinct concentrations in which students can hone their specific skills. Those three options are: Acting, Design/Tech, and Stage Management.
Degree Requirements
All degrees at WCSU require 120 semester hours (SH). This includes major requirements, general education requirements, cognates (where applicable), and free electives. This structure provides room for minors, internships, and study abroad.
Required Courses in the Major: 80 SH.
| BFA THEATRE ARTS CORE (30 SH) | |
| THR 100 Introduction to Theatre Production Lab (FY) | 1 SH |
| THR 105 Social Issues and Justice in Theatre | 2 SH |
| THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) | 3 SH |
| THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) | 3 SH |
| THR 182 Technical Theatre I | 3 SH |
| THR 279 History of Theatre | 3 SH |
| THR 284 Costume Technology for Theatre | 3 SH |
| THR 286 Theatre History II | 3 SH |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab (at least 1 SH for 6 semesters). May be taken for 1-3 SH each semester. Students must still participate for 6 semesters. | 6 SH |
| THR 490 Senior Portfolio in Theatre Arts (CE, W3) | 3 SH |
| Stage Management Option (50 SH) | |
| THR 110 Theatre Management | 3 SH |
| THR 201 Playmaking with Children (CP) OR THR 289 Children’s Theatre Practicum | 3 SH |
| THR 210 Stage Management | 3 SH |
| THR 281 Acting II: Scene Study (CP) | 3 SH |
| THR 283 Scenic Design | 3 SH |
| THR 293 Stage Combat with Children | 2 SH |
| THR 298 Special Topics ASM | 2 SH |
| THR 298 Special Topics ASM | 2 SH |
| THR 302 Costume Design | 3 SH |
| THR 304 Computer Drafting/Design for Theatre | 3 SH |
| THR 308 Sound Design | 3 SH |
| THR 310 Stage Management II | 3 SH |
| THR 384 Fundamentals of Stage Lighting | 3 SH |
| THR 386 Directing I (CT) | 3 SH |
| THR 390 Play Production | 3 SH |
| THR 402 Special Topics PSM | 3 SH |
| THR 403 The Transition Workshop | 1 SH |
| THR Electives | 4 SH |
| COGNATE | |
| MUS 195 Concert chorale (2 semesters) | 1 SH |
| MGT 250 Organizational Behavior (CT) | 3 SH |
| MIS 155 Information Technology OR 260 Information Systems Concepts (IL) | 3 SH |
| Minimum GPA for BFA in Theatre Arts = 2.0 and a “C” or better in all courses within the major to count toward graduation. |
General Education: All students must complete the General Education curriculum. General Education Requirements include both competency and breadth requirements. In some cases, major courses will satisfy competencies. These are indicated in the parentheses after the course title. For a complete description of the General Education program, follow this link. https://catalogs.wcsu.edu/ugrad2021/academic-programs-degrees/
Cognates: In some programs there are courses outside of the major that are required as pre-requisites or enhancements to the major course work. These courses may satisfy competencies and they will count toward the general education breadth requirement. If cognate courses are required, they are included in the list of courses required in the major.
Electives: All degrees require 120 semester hours. Elective credits are opportunities for minors, internships, study abroad, and just following general interests. We encourage all students to speak with their advisors about great opportunities for their elective courses.
Sample Four Year Plan: BFA Stage Management
Four-year plans are suggestions. Plans change. Consult your advisor to adjust your plan.
| Semester 1 | SH | Semester 2 | SH |
| THR 100 Intro to Theatre Prod Lab (FY) | 1 | THR 181 Acting I: Character Study (CP) | 3 |
| THR 182 Tech Theatre I OR THR 284 Costume Tech. for Theatre | 3 | THR 284 Costume Tech. for Theatre OR THR 182 Tech Theatre I | 3 |
| THR 105 Social Issues and Justice in Theatre | 2 | THR 300 Theatre Production Lab – Props Asst. or Other | 1 |
| THR 107W Play Structure and Analysis (W2) | 3 | THR Elective | 1 |
| THR 110 Theatre Management | 3 | MUS 195 Concert Chorale | .5 |
| MUS 195 Concert Chorale | .5 | MIS 155 Information Technology OR MIS 260 Information Systems | 3 |
| Gen Ed. Writing Intensive 1- (Only if W1 is needed) | 3 | Gen. Ed: Quantitative Reasoning (QR) | 3 |
| Semester 3 | SH | Semester 4 | SH |
| THR 279 History of Theatre | 3 | THR 286 Theatre History II | 3 |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 | THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 |
| THR 210 Stage Management | 3 | THR 201 Playmaking w/Children (CP) OR THR 289 Children’s Theatre Practicum | 3 |
| THR 281 Acting II: Scene Study (CP, Rpt. 1) | 3 | THR 304 Computer Drafting/Design for Theatre | 3 |
| THR 384 Fundamentals of Stage Lighting | 3 | THR 310 Stage Management II | 3 |
| MGT 250 Organizational Behavior (CT) | 3 | Gen Ed: Scientific Inquiry (SI) | 4 |
| Semester 5 | SH | Semester 6 | SH |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 | THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 |
| THR Elective | 3 | THR 298 Special Topics – ASM | 2 |
| THR 283 Scenic Design | 3 | THR 293 Stage Combat | 2 |
| THR 298 Special Topics – ASM | 2 | THR 302 Costume Design | 3 |
| THR 386 Directing I (CT) OR THR 390 Play Production | 3 | THR 390 Play Production OR THR 386 Directing I (CT) | 3 |
| Gen Ed: Health and Wellness (HW) | 2 | Gen. Ed: Oral Communication (OC) | 3 |
| Gen. Ed: Intercultural (IC) | 3 | Gen Ed: Intercultural (IC, Rpt. 2) | 3 |
| Semester 7 | SH | Semester 8 | SH |
| THR 300 Theatre Production Lab | 1 | THR 403 The Transition Workshop | 1 |
| THR 490 Senior Portfolio (CE, W3) | 3 | Gen Ed: Breadth. OR THR 402 Special Topics – PSM | 3 |
| THR 308 Sound Design | 3 | Gen Ed: Breadth | 3 |
| THR 402 Special Topics – PSM OR Gen Ed. | 3 | Gen Ed: Breadth | 3 |
| Gen Ed. Repeat Competency 3 | 3 | Gen Ed: Breadth | 3 |
| Total Credits Required for the BFA in Theatre Arts = 120; Minimum GPA 2.0 | |||
Program Learning Outcomes
This degree offers students knowledge of and professional training in three specific areas of theatre within a liberal arts context in order to compete for employment opportunities in the entertainment industry where theatrical talent is utilized. These three areas of concentration are: Acting, Design/Technology, and Stage Management. Students will develop the following skills:
- Students will demonstrate, through engaging with verbal, physical, visual, and research aspects of the craft, the value of Theatre as a profession. This will be assessed in courses like The Transition Workshop, Senior Portfolio, and through their production assignments.
- Students will understand the value of secondary theatre disciplines as they pertain to professional collaboration in their field and potential avenues for supplemental work in the field of Theatre. This will be assessed through courses within the BFA core, as well as any courses that provide supplemental skills and training outside of the student’s chosen concentration.
- Students will apply theoretical concepts through hands-on/practical applications of skill. This will be assessed through production assignments, casting, auditioning, and other practicum experiences.
- Students will analyze scripts, both contemporary and classic, and evaluate their merits and contributions. This will be assessed through courses such as Play Structure and Analysis, Design Courses, Management Courses, and Acting Courses.
- Students will create meaningful theatrical experiences as they pertain to their concentrations. Acting students will create roles, Design/Tech students will create scenery and/or realize their designs, Management students will create processes and procedures for successful rehearsal and performance of productions. This will be assessed through courses in Acting, Design, and Management. As well as through production assignments and casting.
- Students will create professional portfolios and audition packages to advance their careers post-graduation. This will be assessed through courses in Transition Workshop, Senior Portfolio, and Senior Showcase.
Minor in Theatre (18 S.H.)
Eighteen semester hours in theatre which must include at least 12 semester hours above the 100-level and at least 3 semesters of THR 300. Emphasis must be on Theatre Arts.