Theater Studies

The field of theater combines studies in history, theory, and critical analysis with practical experiences in production techniques and creativity. Its scope includes diverse representations in dynamic time and space. Among its shared subjects are performance studies, and techniques for directing, designing, writing, and performing for stage.

The curriculum in theater, studies encourages students to interrogate representations on stage toward an understanding of their historical, cultural, and artistic significance. Additionally, we provide opportunities for students to produce their own works and to collaborate on projects with faculty members and other students.

The department offers minors in theater studies. Students interested in fulfilling a minor should consult with a faculty member in TFMS.

Production Opportunities

The Department of Theater supplies the resources for a diverse range of production work on stage. Live performance opportunities include stage productions and dance concerts directed by faculty members, guest artists, and students, performed in a variety of spaces, including the Bruce Davis Theater (main stage), the dance studio, and the White Room. Performance roles, design, and technical positions are open to all students, regardless of their majors. Theater production seasons are formulated to maximize opportunities for working on or attending productions that represent the diversity of theatrical activities across cultures and history.

Detailed, regularly updated information about our theater and arts seasons and about production opportunities is available on the department website.

Learning Outcomes

Generate innovative works of theater and performance
Develop well-supported interpretations of theater and performance from various historical periods
Implement at least one of the practical or scholarly skills of theater and performance to communicate with audiences
Design projects that clarify how theater and performance can engage with the vital concerns of communities
Clarify the significance of modes of theater and performance from a wide range of local and global cultures
Construct clear, specific and complex written arguments about theater and performance
Demonstrate oral presentations that are clear, organized, appropriate and engaging for a chosen audience

Degree Requirements for the Theater Studies Minor

Degree Requirements for the Minor in Theater Studies

Students choosing to minor in theater studies are responsible for designing a cohesive area of study in consultation with a member of the department faculty. The minor in theater studies is 20 credit hours. Each course is four credit hours, unless otherwise indicated.

Required Courses:

TFMS 130: Idea into Performance
TFMS 200: Theater in History or TFMS 300: Modern Theater

Additional 12 Credit Hours

An additional 12 credit hours chosen from the following course offerings in the theater studies focus area. Four credit hours must be at the 300- or 400-level. Students may include a maximum of four credit hours of TFMS 290/490: Practicum.

TFMS 170: Stagecraft
TFMS 171: Elements of Design
TFMS 200: Theater in History
TFMS 230: Acting I
TFMS 250: Movement I
TFMS 290: Practicum (1-2 credit hours)
TFMS 300: Modern Theater
TFMS 340: Directing for the Stage
TFMS 350: Movement II
TFMS 374: Lighting Design
TFMS 375: Costume Design for Stage and Screen
TFMS 376: Scenic Design for Stage and Screen
TFMS 490: Practicum (1-2 credit hours)
TFMS 493/494: St. Mary’s Project (a theater studies- or production-related project)

Faculty

David M. Smith, Amy Steiger; Sherry Ocker