major in theatre
Bachelor of Arts in Theatre
Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Program Overview
Discover FHU’s Theatre Major for an immersive educational journey. Hone your performance talents, explore dynamic dramatic storytelling, and master diverse acting techniques. Our experienced faculty and supportive environment ensure you acquire the essential skills for a successful theatre career. Explore FHU’s Theatre Major today.
Department:
Department of Creative and Communication Arts
Department chair name:
Margaret Payne
B.A., M.A., Ph.D.
Program Coordinator:
Dr. Cliff Thompson
Learning at FHU
Why Major in Theatre at FHU?
A student should consider majoring in Theatre at FHU due to the unique blend of artistic expression and spiritual growth the program offers.
FHU’s Theatre major goes beyond traditional theatre education by emphasizing the integration of faith and art, allowing students to explore how their Christian beliefs can enhance their creative work.
Program Highlights:
- Nurture Artistic Talents
- Explore Faith-Based Expression
- Impact the Industry
- Personal Growth
- Diverse Opportunities
Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Degree Four-Year Plans
Embark on your theatre journey with a tailored four-year roadmap meticulously designed to guide your progress. FHU’s Theatre program is strategically curated to equip students with the essential techniques and abilities needed to excel in the vibrant and competitive world of the theatre industry.
2023-2024 4-Year Plan(s)
2022-2023 4-Year Plan(s)
2021-2022 4-Year Plan(s)
Careers for Theatre Majors
Graduates with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Freed-Hardeman University can explore a wide range of career options within the performing arts industry and beyond. Here are some potential career paths:
- Actor/Actress
- Director
- Playwright/Scriptwriter
- Theatre Educator
- Theatre Producer
- Set Designer
- Arts Administrator
- Touring Performer
Theatre Major Degree Requirements
Embark on an exciting journey within Freed-Hardeman University’s Theatre program! Polish your skills on stage, delve into theatrical theory, history, and technique. Ignite your creative fervor and set forth on a thrilling theatrical adventure. Unleash your artistic potential with us!
B.A. Major in Theatre with Emphasis in Performance – 126 hours
Program Coordinator: Dr. Cliff Thompson
For a complete listing of requirements for graduation, see Academics: Degree/Graduation
I. Liberal Arts Core Requirements - 34 hours
Listed in this catalog under Academics: Liberal Arts Core
For Teaching Licensure, Limit III. C. 2. Critical and Creative Works to THE 160 Introduction to Theatre
II. Major Requirements - 41-43 hours
Theatre Core – 23-25 hours
| THE 161 | Human Anatomy and Physiology II and Lab | 1 |
| THE 180 | Concepts in Theatre Design | 3 |
| THE 266 | Technical Theatre Production | 3 |
| THE 362 | Working in Theatre | 1 |
| THE 365 | History of Theatre I (W) | 3 |
| THE 366 | History of Theatre II (W) | 3 |
| THE 397/497 | Theatre Internship | 2 |
| THE 465 | Directing | 3 |
| THE 467 | Theatre and the Christian (W) | 3 |
| THE 468 A,B,C | Senior Capstone Experience | 1-3 |
Theatre Performance – 6 hours
| MUS 151 | Voice I | 1 |
| THE 180 | Acting I | 3 |
| THE | Technical Labs: 2 additional hours | 2 |
Choose three (3) hours from the following courses – 3 hours
| THE 268 | Acting II | (3) |
| THE 285 | Acting for the Camera | (3) |
| THE 377 | Acting III | 2 |
Choose nine (9) hours of THE courses – 9 hours
(excluding labs and THE 160*)
III. Electives (including additional Bible) - 49-51 hours
* Students certifying to teach must take THE 268 Acting II and THE 368 Creative Dramatics for Children.
Requirements for Teaching Licensure in Theatre
- Completion of the B.A. Major in Theatre as outlined above
- Required professional education courses (see “Department of Education” entry)
- THE160 Introduction to Theatre to meet liberal arts fine arts requirement
- Must take THE 368 Creative Dramatics for Children
- Must take THE 268 Acting II
B.A. Major in Theatre with Emphasis in Design/Production – 126 hours
Program Coordinator: Dr. Cliff Thompson
For a complete listing of requirements for graduation, see Academics: Degree/Graduation
I. Liberal Arts Core Requirements - 34 hours
Listed in this catalog under Academics: Liberal Arts Core
Students may not pursue the Design/Production Emphasis for Teaching Licensure.
II. Major Requirements - 41-43 hours
Theatre Core – 23-25 hours
| THE 161 | Theatre Lab: Set | 1 |
| THE 180 | Concepts in Theatre Design | 3 |
| THE 266 | Technical Theatre Production | 3 |
| THE 362 | Working in Theatre | 1 |
| THE 365 | History of Theatre I (W) | 3 |
| THE 366 | History of Theatre II (W) | 3 |
| THE 397/497 | Theatre Internship | 2 |
| THE 465 | Directing | 3 |
| THE 467 | Theatre and the Christian (W) | 3 |
| THE 468 A,B,C | Senior Capstone Experience | 1-3 |
Theatre Design/Production – 8 hours
| THE 271 | World Building | 3 |
| THE 371 | Studio I | 3 |
| THE | Technical Labs: 2 additional hours | 2 |
Choose three (6) hours from the following courses – 6 hours
| THE 273 | Digital Rendering | (3) |
| THE 335 | Painting for the Stage | (3) |
| THE 372 | Studio II | 2 |
Choose three (3) hours of THE courses:
(excluding labs and THE 160)
III. Electives (including additional Bible) - 50-51 hours
Important Theatre Links
Meet Our Faculty
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Program
Below are answers to questions prospective students often have when considering a major in Theatre. If you have additional questions or need more information, please contact [email protected] and they will happily answer questions and provide additional details about our program.
What makes a Bachelor's Degree in Theatre at FHU unique?
Earning a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre degree from FHU offers a unique educational journey that seamlessly blends artistic excellence with spiritual growth. What truly sets this program apart is its commitment to integrating Christian values into the world of theatre, creating a dynamic and enriching learning experience.
At FHU, students are provided with a comprehensive curriculum that goes beyond traditional theatre education. While honing their performance skills and delving into the intricacies of dramatic storytelling, students also have the unique opportunity to explore how their Christian faith can amplify their creative expression.
This distinctive approach not only adds depth to their performances but also empowers them to create narratives that resonate on a spiritual level, addressing the needs of a spiritually seeking audience.
An important aspect of FHU’s Theatre program is the emphasis on post-production debriefing sessions. These sessions, led by the director of theatre, foster self-reflection and growth.
Through analyzing both strengths and weaknesses, students develop a keen understanding of their craft and learn how to continuously refine their skills. This focus on learning from each production sets FHU apart from other programs, where the emphasis might solely be on the end product.
The program’s nurturing environment and community of believer-artists provide a platform for collaboration, support, and personal development. As students progress through their studies, they are encouraged to not only excel in their performances but also to explore how their work can serve as a means of compassionate storytelling, touching hearts and making a positive impact on the world.
Ultimately, FHU’s Bachelor of Arts in Theatre degree offers an exceptional opportunity to grow artistically, spiritually, and professionally. By embracing the intersection of faith and art, students graduate equipped not only with the technical skills of the theatre but also with a unique perspective that allows them to excel in a dynamic and evolving industry while making a meaningful difference.
What is the job outlook for students who graduate with a degree in theatre?
The job outlook for students who graduate with a degree in theatre is diverse and can vary depending on factors such as specialization, location, experience, and networking.
While the performing arts industry can be competitive, there are opportunities available for theatre graduates to apply their skills and pursue fulfilling careers. Here are some potential career paths and factors to consider:
- Acting: The job outlook for actors can be competitive, with roles available in theatre, film, television, commercials, and more. Success often depends on talent, dedication, and networking.
- Directing: Directors can find opportunities in theatre, film, and television. Experienced directors with a strong portfolio may have a favorable job outlook as they become sought after for their creative vision and leadership skills.
- Theatre Educator: Teaching positions in schools, colleges, and community centers offer stable employment prospects for theatre graduates with a passion for education and mentoring.
- Playwright/Scriptwriter: The job outlook for playwrights and scriptwriters can vary. Opportunities exist in theatre, film, television, and online platforms, with demand for original content.
- Costume/Set/Lighting Design: Graduates can find employment designing costumes, sets, and lighting for theatre, film, television, events and more. Experienced designers with a strong portfolio may have an advantage.
- Arts Administration: Managing theatre organizations, coordinating events, and overseeing budgets can offer stable career opportunities in the administrative side of the performing arts.
While pursuing a career in theatre requires dedication and perseverance, graduates can enhance their job prospects by networking, building a strong portfolio, gaining practical experience through internships and projects, and continuously improving their skills. Adapting to emerging technologies and exploring interdisciplinary collaborations can also expand opportunities within and beyond the performing arts industry.
What skills can I learn while majoring in Theatre at FHU?
While majoring in Theatre at FHU, you can develop a wide range of valuable skills that will not only enhance your abilities as a performer but also prepare you for various roles within the performing arts industry and beyond. Here are some key skills you can learn:
- Acting Skills: You’ll develop a strong foundation in acting techniques, including character development, voice modulation, movement, and improvisation.
- Communication: Effective communication skills are essential for conveying emotions, narratives, and messages to an audience.
- Collaboration: Theatre is a collaborative art form, teaching you how to work effectively with directors, fellow actors, designers, and crew members.
- Creative Problem-Solving: Theatre often requires creative solutions to challenges that arise during productions, enhancing your ability to think on your feet.
- Empathy: Acting enables you to understand and embody different characters’ perspectives, fostering empathy and emotional intelligence.
- Public Speaking: Through performances and presentations, you’ll become skilled at speaking confidently in front of audiences.
- Critical Analysis: You’ll learn to analyze scripts, performances, and productions, honing your ability to provide constructive feedback.
- Creative Expression: You’ll refine your ability to express ideas, emotions, and concepts in unique and engaging ways.
- Directing and Leadership: If interested in directing, you’ll learn leadership skills, guiding actors and crew to bring a production to life.
- Storytelling Techniques: Learning to tell stories effectively through performance is a fundamental skill applicable in various fields.
These skills are not only valuable for careers in theatre but also transferable to other professions that require effective communication, creativity, adaptability and teamwork.
What is the Theatre degree from FHU?
The Theatre degree from Freed-Hardeman University (FHU) is a comprehensive program designed to provide students with a holistic education in the field of theatre arts. This program offers two distinct emphases: Performance and Design/Production, each tailored to different aspects of the theatre industry.
- Theatre with Emphasis in Performance:
The Performance emphasis is designed for students who are passionate about acting, directing, and the art of performance. This track focuses on developing students’ acting skills, stage presence, and understanding of character dynamics. Courses cover a range of topics, including acting techniques, theatre history and performance theory. Students have the opportunity to explore various acting styles and gain practical experience through performances. They learn to embody characters, convey emotions, and engage audiences effectively on stage.
Additionally, within the Performance emphasis, there is a Teaching Licensure track that allows students to pursue a career in teaching theatre. The Teaching Licensure track includes specific requirements. - Theatre with Emphasis in Design/Production:
The Design/Production emphasis caters to students interested in the technical aspects of theatre. It focuses on set design, lighting, costumes, and stage management. Students learn how to create the visual and technical elements that enhance performances behind the scenes.
Both emphases provide a well-rounded education that integrates faith-based expression with artistic pursuits, fostering a unique approach to theatre. Graduates of FHU’s Theatre program are equipped to pursue careers in acting, directing, teaching, technical theatre, arts administration and various other roles within the performing arts and related industries.
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