Our Program

We offer a rigorous exploration of historic and contemporary theatre practice within a vibrant liberal arts tradition. Our curriculum includes applied studio courses in acting, directing, and technical production and design as well as course work in dramatic literature, theatre history, and theory. Each year the theatre major applies classroom and studio knowledge to a robust six-production season of contemporary and classic plays.

Breadth and Depth
The Bachelor of Arts degree allows you to gain a broad understanding of theatre art while honing your skills in a specific area of emphasis.

Acting
The acting emphasis offers you the benefits of individualized attention in a safe yet challenging training environment. Studio courses, workshops, and master classes are complemented by a variety of performance opportunities.

Directing
The directing emphasis is designed to equip directors with both foundational and intimate knowledge of the theatrical process. Directors apply course work in directing theory, acting, design, and technical production to studio work as well as a fully-mounted Capstone Project.

Technical Production and Design
The technical production and design emphasis assists students in developing an aesthetic perception of their art. With a combination of classroom, production and design experiences, students learn the communication skills necessary to enable them to work effectively with actors, directors, designers, and technicians.

The Capstone Project
During the second semester of the junior year theatre majors propose a Senior Capstone Project. This portfolio-building project represents the culmination of the student’s training and serves as a bridge to graduate programs, professional theatre, or other job opportunities.

Scholarships

* Messiah College does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, color, age, disability, or national or ethnic origin.