The BA program in theatre and performance offers a world-class liberal arts education in the theatre, where students combine scholarship and artistic practice to create original and socially engaged performances.


From global classics to cutting-edge interdisciplinary work, the theatre and performance major encourages creativity, intellectual curiosity, and social engagement through a hybrid “liberal arts within a conservatory” degree program. Learning from award-winning instructors who are professional artists and published scholars, students gain practical experience while enriching their understanding of diverse theatre traditions across eras and cultures.

Strong Foundation

The core requirements provide students with a strong foundation in theatre history, dramatic literature, and stagecraft, with opportunities to focus on applied theatre, devised theatre, directing, dramaturgy, ensemble creation, performance, playwriting, scholarship, and theatre production. Topical courses offer deep dives into subjects such as Asian American Theatre, Black American Drama, Contemporary US Latinx Theatre, Documentary Theatre, Dramatic Theory, LGBTQ Drama, Satire, Solo Performance, Transmedia, and Women in Performance.

Experiential Approach

Our robust production calendar offers numerous opportunities to be involved in theatrical performances. Whether working with a professional director on a Mainstage production or creating original performances for their senior projects, theatre and performance students are engaged in making vibrant theatre that emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and social change.

Inside the Classroom

A look inside Commedia and Pantomime with Lenka Pichliková

Students in a group wearing masks

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