BA Theatre

The Theatre Department’s combined historical, theoretical and applied curriculum develops a wide range of knowledge and practical skills in a collaborative environment. Theatre studies prepare students to use innovative thinking for a variety of professional careers and to enrich many aspects of their lives.

Specialize in one of four Theatre concentrations.

Acting for Theatre, Television, and Film: Student actors will be guided through foundational to advanced technique in Stanislavsky-based forms as well as targeted skills in acting for television and film, classical acting, improvisation, and comedy. Actors are developed through classes, public performances, and private coaching during their time at ESU. In addition to acting in our main stage season, students have the opportunity to perform in numerous student film projects throughout the year.

Musical Theatre: To meet the interest of our students, courses in Musical Theatre are offered in the theatre department for general education requirements. Additionally, students may major in theatre and select the Musical Theatre track. The Musical Theatre track combines courses in theatre, music and dance, as meets the demands of this unique American art form. In addition to a broad study of theatre techniques, students will study vocal performance, music theory and piano, as well as classes in important dance forms. The department regularly produces full scale musicals and other theatre productions that include music and dance.

Directing: Students may enter the program as directors or add directing later in their studies as an emerging interest. Student directors develop knowledge and skill in all aspects of theatre as the coordinators of all artistic aspect of the production. Directors are developed through directing class, independent studies in Directing II, ESU and outside assistant directing, and by taking advantage of student directing opportunities through stage II and student cabarets.

Design/Technical Theatre: Students in this concentration are guided through foundation through advanced courses in all areas of design (scenic, costume, lighting, and sound) and technology. Students will develop their craft through classes, workshops and live performances. Advanced students will have main stage design and production shop employment opportunities. This concentration is very hands on with one on one faculty mentorship.