Theatre Concentration Overview
The Theatre concentration within the BA in Visual and Performing Arts is designed for students who are passionate about live performance, storytelling, and creative collaboration. Whether your interest lies in acting, stage management, directing, design, or writing, this program provides opportunities to explore all facets of theatre production. Through engaging classes and hands-on experience, students develop the artistic and technical skills needed to bring stories to life on stage and beyond. The program is ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in both the theory and practice of theatre.
Key Aspects of the Program
Students in the Theatre concentration benefit from an interdisciplinary approach that emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and versatility. Courses cover acting techniques, stage direction, technical theatre, musical theatre, and production ensembles, offering a balance of performance and behind-the-scenes training. Beyond individual performance, students gain a deeper understanding of theatre history and literature, connecting the traditions of the stage with modern innovations. With small class sizes and access to state-of-the-art facilities, students receive individualized attention and hands-on experience that sets them apart.
Career Paths with a Degree in Theatre
Graduates of the Theatre concentration leave UT Dallas with practical experience and a broad range of skills that prepare them for careers in the arts, education, and beyond. By combining creativity, critical thinking, and technical expertise, students are equipped to pursue roles both on stage and behind the curtain. Whether you dream of performing, directing, designing, or teaching, this program provides the foundation for a rewarding career in theatre and related fields.
Theatre Careers
Actor, artist, arts administrator, arts writer/critic, choreographer, dancer, editor, performer, teacher, theatre director, theatre stage manager, voiceover artist, and other positions of professional practice
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Theatre Program Options
BA in Visual and Performing Arts – Theatre Concentration
Fact Sheet
Related Minors
Theatre Courses
The Theatre concentration offers courses at a variety of levels to help students build and refine their skills over time. Whether you’re exploring foundational acting classes, learning technical aspects like stage management and lighting design, or diving into advanced directing and playwriting, the curriculum is designed to nurture both performers and technicians. With opportunities to participate in production ensembles and learn from experienced faculty, students gain valuable experience in all aspects of theatre.
Opportunities for Involvement
Students can audition for stage productions hosted at University Theatre and join one of the many student organizations. Productions range from classic works to contemporary plays and musicals, directed by faculty and guest artists from Dallas-area theatre companies. Past performances have included Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Betty’s Summer Vacation by Christopher Durang and directed by Terry Martin (Artistic Director of WaterTower Theatre in Addison), Euripides’ Bakkhai, Ibsen’s Hedda Gabler, Chekov’s The Seagull, The Fantasticks, R.U.R., The Foreigner, Tis’ Pity She’s a Whore directed by Raphael Parry (Executive Director of Dallas Shakespeare), I Hate Hamlet, Fuddy Meers, John Guare’s House of Blue Leaves, and a new adaptation of Anthony Burgess’ A Clockwork Orange.
Students are encouraged to engage in independent projects, senior honors projects, and interdisciplinary collaborations, gaining practical experience and building a strong portfolio of work.
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Minoring in Theatre
Students interested in complementing their major with theatre studies can pursue a Minor in Theatre. The minor provides foundational coursework in acting, performance, technical theatre, and theatre history, offering a focused yet flexible way to explore the art and craft of theatre. This option is perfect for students who want to enhance their communication, performance, and creative problem-solving skills.
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