Drama Studies | Academic Requirements | Production Options
The Junior Seminar and Senior Project | Courses | Faculty

The Drama Studies B.A. Program

Drama studies is a liberal arts program for the scholar/artist. Our students study what theatre and performance has been, explore what it is now, and think about what it might be. They acquire knowledge of world drama and performance and often choose to experiment with their own creativity as performers, directors, and playwrights.

Exploring the Relationships Between Theatre, Performance, and Society
The drama studies major combines a liberal arts education in dramatic literature, theatre history, and performance theory with experience of theatre as an art form. The primary goal is to develop each student’s ability to articulate, both artistically and intellectually, the relationships between theatre, performance, and society. Although drama studies is not a professional training program, workshops and limited production opportunities are offered in acting, playwriting, and directing. Three areas of focus within the broad range of courses help prepare students for careers in theatre and related fields or for graduate study in theatre, performance studies, and related disciplines.

The Relationship Between the Drama Studies and Acting Programs
While the goals of the Drama Studies Program differ from those of the Acting B.F.A. Program in the Conservatory of Theatre Arts & Film, members of the acting faculty teach some courses offered to drama studies students and some drama studies courses are required for students in the Conservatory. There are also opportunities for advanced drama studies students to work as dramaturges and assistant directors during the Conservatory’s theatre season. This option is strongly encouraged in the junior year for students who will be directing a production as a senior project.

Performance Venues and Opportunities
There are many performance venues and opportunities at Purchase. Professional companies perform at The Performing Arts Center, and the Conservatory of Theatre Arts & Film offers performances at the Center and in the Dance Theatre Lab. The Drama Studies Program contributes to this wealth of performance on campus by sponsoring, supervising, and providing technical support to approved senior projects and faculty-directed shows. These are usually staged in the Humanities Theatre, although some senior projects may be appropriately staged in other venues. The drama studies faculty also encourages students to participate in the Drama League, a student club, and in other clubs and organizations to develop a variety of student-based performances. Multiple acting spaces are available for student groups and individuals on campus.

Updated June 27, 2008