The generalist program in theatre provides a comprehensive background in this multifaceted discipline. The study of theatre illuminates, enriches, and interprets human existence. It allows the student the opportunity to gain knowledge of both the process of theatre production and the ideas explored in the literature of the theatre. The goals of the theatre program are:

• To introduce students to the multiple and varied arts which comprise the theatre.
• To engender in students an understanding and respect for the discipline of the theatre.
• To develop a knowledgeable and appreciative audience for live theatre through course offerings and theatrical productions.
• To produce, in as professional a manner as possible, important pieces of dramatic literature.

A student is required to explore three basic areas of theatre: Its historical and literary foundations, the techniques of translating theory into action, and the translation itself that is production. The course work will be applied in practice through production assignments under the close supervision of faculty.

Recent productions include Henry V, Eurydice, Lysistrata, and Chicago.

Why The Theatre Program is Unique:

• The college has two well-equipped theatres, with houses of 1300 and 270

• Students have the opportunity to act and design at the undergraduate level

• Students are offered internship opportunities

• Class sizes are extremely small

• A large variety of elective courses are offered

• The department has its own rehearsal space

• Students are offered on-campus employment in the scene and costume shops

• The department attends ACTF annually, which allows students to learn, compete, and network

• The Margaret Hill Visiting Artist Series occurs annually, with master classes, lectures, and student lunches with renown artists such as Audra McDonald, Sigourney Weaver, Glenn Close, and Lilly Tomlin

• Each senior theatre major has the opportunity to fully produce a play

• Students have a multitude of acting opportunities every year, including directing scenes, senior comprehensive projects, and The Madrigal Dinner

• The theatre department works closely with the music and dance departments

• The department produces a large-scale musical every four years

• A study tour course to New York City and a study abroad course to Europe are offered every other year