Southern Theatre, Vol. 62, Issue 1

Volume LXII Number 1 • Winter 2021 • $8.00

YES, AND …

Moving Racial Equity from the Page to the Stage

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How Online Teaching Is Transforming Theatre Education

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Contents

Volume LXII Number 1 l Winter 2021 l Southern Theatre – Magazine of the Southeastern Theatre Conference

Departments 4 Hot off the Press

Reimagining the Classics

by Zackary Ross

6 Outside the Box: Design/Tech Solutions Cutting the Cord: Going Wireless with Lights and Props

by David Page

62 Words, Words, Words …

Review of The Costume Supervisor’s Toolkit: Costume Production from First Meeting to Final Performance,

by Rebecca Pride review by Heather Milam

64 Index to Volume LXI

Special Section D-1 2021 SETC College, University & Training Program Directory

Find the perfect school for you in this comprehensive directory, which lists SETC member institutions and the degrees they offer. (Special section begins after Page 32.)

Features

8 Yes, and...

Moving Racial Equity and Justice from the Page to the Stage

by Derrick Vanmeter

24 Dollars and Sense

Professors and Other Experts Share Advice on Financing Your Theatre Degree

by Amy Cuomo

38 Virtual Lessons

How Online Teaching Innovations Are Transforming Theatre Education

by Eric Eidson

52 Sustainability and the Costume Shop

‘Every Piece of Cloth Is An Opportunity’

by Sarah McCarroll

Cover Senior BFA student Marlee Wilson (left) is Aphra Behn and senior BFA student Levarious Goods (right) is Charles II in a virtual production of Or by Liz Duffy at the University of Memphis.

This photo was chosen from more than 160 submissions as the winner in our annual college and university cover photo contest. The show was produced in October 2020 as part of the University of Memphis’ Jubilee season, a year-long celebration of performances generated by individuals that have been historically excluded from our country’s stages. Actors, designers and others working on the show rehearsed and filmed during the pandemic using social distancing and masks. Moments of intimacy within the play were creatively performed with puppets on 3-foot poles. Or was directed by second-year MFA candidate Moises Hinojos, with scenic design by faculty member Brian Ruggaber, costume design by faculty member Jen Gillette, lighting design by faculty member Anthony Pellecchia and sound design by third-year MFA candidate James R. Baker. (Photo by Bill Simmers; cover design by Deanna Thompson) Winter 2021 x Southern Theatre x 3

Reimagining the Classics Our regular column on plays that have recently become available for licensing focuses in this issue on works inspired by scripts from the dramatic canon.

by Zackary Ross

I

often tell my students that the greatest gift a playwright gives an actor is a pause written into the stage directions. A pause offers actors a moment to reflect on what has led them to this point in the play and to envision where they want to go next. A pause is a new

beginning, a moment of new potential. In light of the extended coronavirus shutdowns, I can’t help but feel that the theatre world now exists in one such moment as we collectively hold our breath, think about what has been lost, and look forward to what will come next.

During this hiatus, I’ve sought comfort in rereading some of my favorite plays, in addition to a handful of scripts I discovered that reinvent the classics of our past. What follows is a collection of plays that breathe surprising new life into timeless favorites. To develop this list, I surveyed major play publishers’ offerings during recent months. Following each description, you’ll find information about the cast breakdown and a referral to the publisher who holds the rights.

A Doctor in Spite of Himself, by Molière,

Publisher: Dramatists Play Service, Inc.

speare’s tales and lampoons the increas-

adapted by Christopher Bayes and

www.dramatists.com

ingly hostile nature of modern politics.

Cast breakdown: 4 females (any ethnicity);

Steven Epp

In this update of Molière’s classic comedy,

Dreamland, by Chris Miller and Nathan

1 male (any ethnicity); 1 child (any gender/

live music and a Punch-and-Judy-style

Tysen

ethnicity)

puppet show punctuate the story of a

Inspired by Shakespeare’s A Midsummer

Publisher: Dramatists Play Service, Inc.

young woman scheming to avoid the mar-

Night’s Dream, this musical comedy imagines

www.dramatists.com

riage her father wants for her. When her

the action set against the declassification of

parents mistake a drunken woodcutter for

Area 51 as a class of high school students

Moscow Moscow Moscow Moscow

a renowned doctor, they enlist his help to

takes over the top-secret base for a few

Moscow Moscow, by Halley Feiffer

cure the mysterious illness she is feigning.

days. Love triangles, alien abductions and

In this black comedy, the plot and context

Cast breakdown: 3 females; 7 males (any

even a performance by the school’s show

of Chekhov’s Three Sisters is retained but

ethnicity); possibility of doubling

choir appear in this imaginative send-up of

reimagined with a contemporary twist. The

Publisher: Broadway Play Publishing

Shakespeare’s romantic comedy.

eponymous three sisters of the original –

www.broadwayplaypub.com

Cast breakdown: Expandible/flexible (any

Olga, Masha and Irina – wallow in boredom

ethnicity)

in provincial Russia, longing to return to

American Moor, by Keith Hamilton Cobb

Publisher: Concord Theatricals

the exciting hustle-bustle of Moscow. The

In this poignant two-hander, an experi-

www.concordtheatricals.com

language and characters come alive like

enced Black actor auditioning for the role

never before in this millennial-inspired

of Shakespeare’s Othello is met with con-

Gary: A Sequel to Titus Andronicus, by

take on a classic.

flict from the young white director who

Taylor Mac

Cast breakdown: 5 females; 7 males (any

presumes to instruct him on capturing the

In the aftermath of Shakespeare’s Titus

ethnicity)

soul of the character. Using Shakespeare’s

Andronicus, Gary – a clown who was sup-

Publisher: Dramatists Play Service, Inc.

character as a metaphor, the play examines

posed to be hanged at the end of the origi-

www.dramatists.com n

the experience of Black men in America,

nal text – is instead tasked with cleaning up

engaging in complex discussions on the

the corpses that litter the stage. He is aided

topics of race, privilege and contemporary

by Janice, a maid with lots of experience

attitudes toward the great bard.

cleaning up massacres. The play celebrates

Cast breakdown: 2 males (1 Black/African

the oft-forgotten disposable characters that

descent, 1 white/European descent)

frequently appear on the margins of Shake-

4 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

Zackary Ross is an assistant professor of theatre and the arts administration program director at Bellarmine University in Louisville, KY. He is a member of the Southern Theatre Editorial Board.

Theatre s o u t h e r n

EDITOR

Deanna Thompson

From Fromthe theSETC SETCPresident President…

SETC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Susie Prueter SETC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR EMERITUS

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Tom Alsip, Oklahoma State University Keith Arthur Bolden, Spelman College (GA) Amy Cuomo, University of West Georgia F. Randy deCelle, University of Alabama Kristopher Geddie, Venice Theatre (FL) Bill Gelber, Texas Tech University David Glenn, Samford University (AL) Scott Hayes, Liberty University (VA) Edward Journey, Independent Artist/Consultant (AL) Stefanie Maiya Lehmann, Lincoln Center (NY) Sarah McCarroll, Georgia Southern University Tiffany Dupont Novak, Lexington Children’s Theatre (KY) Zackary Ross, Bellarmine University (KY) Jonathon Taylor, East Tennessee State University Chalethia Williams, Miles College (AL) PROOFREADERS

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T

The winter issue of Southern Theatre typically focuses on colleges and universities, but this edition also includes stories that address three of the critical issues facing our country today: the call for racial equity and justice, the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, and the challenge of climate change. The intersections of all these topics will be critical for the future of higher education.

We begin with an in-depth look at racial equity in theatre. Derrick Vanmeter

shares the important concerns raised by Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) theatre artists about the theatre industry – and outlines how theatre leaders are creating anti-racism action plans designed to foster measurable change.

The coronavirus pandemic has drastically altered the college experience, challenging students and teachers alike as much of the learning has shifted online.

Eric Eidson reports on a number of theatre professors who are embracing the challenge, employing innovative tools to engage students and audiences.

Pandemic or not, paying for college remains a major challenge for many students and their parents. Amy Cuomo provides a detailed overview of financing options and shares inside advice from financial aid professionals, theatre professors and others on how to maximize the aid you receive from an institution and how to find other sources of revenue.

Students who are still searching for the perfect school for their undergraduate or graduate education will find comprehensive help in this issue. The 2021 SETC College, University & Training Program Directory, located in the center of this magazine, lists all SETC member institutions and provides details on the degrees they offer.

Concerns about global climate change are spurring increased interest in green practices in all areas of theatre, including the costume shop. Sarah McCarroll asked costume designers and others with an interest in this area to share their best environmentally conscious practices and tips.

Those who have an interest in the costume shop also will want to read Heather Milam’s review of Rebecca Pride’s book, The Costume Supervisor’s Toolkit, in our regular “Words, Words, Words…” column. In our “Hot off the Press” column, Zackary Ross offers a sampling of newly available plays that re-envision classic works. Finally, David Page details the process he used to power lights and props wirelessly in a production of Rock of Ages in our “Outside the Box” column.

SETC hopes to provide resources for emerging artists and their educators alike in this edition of Southern Theatre. The future of theatre-making is in your hands, and we look forward to supporting you on that journey!

Maegan McNerney Azar, SETC President Winter 2021 x Southern Theatre x 5

outside

the box DESIGN/ TECH SOLUTIONS

Cutting the Cord Going Wireless with Lights and Props

by David Page

A

re you tired of managing electrical cables every time you have lights

installed on a rolling piece of scenery?

Maybe you’d like to have lights on a handheld prop that are controllable from your lighting console and don’t rely on actor manipulation? Having to dress an electrical lead on your wagons can be cumbersome and eventually unsightly. If you’re like me and want to streamline your scene changes while still maintaining control over the lighting involved with those pieces, then investing in battery power and a wireless DMX control package could provide the solution to your electrical problems with an Clark Scott

affordable initial investment – as it did for me on a production of Rock of Ages at the Virginia Samford Theatre in Birmingham, AL. The situation

In the musical Rock of Ages, Drew and Sherri drive out to a lookout point to spend some time by themselves. Much of the scene takes place while they’re driving

Hannah Comedy and Daniel Jackson appear in Rock of Ages, presented at Virginia Samford Theatre in Birmingham, AL, in February 2016, directed by Tawny Stephens, with musical direction by Michael King, sound design by Brandon Robertson, costume design by Marci Turner and scenic/projection/lighting by David Page.

in the car at night, so I didn’t want a lot

shows. Most theatrical LED tape connects

to an opto-splitter onstage, rather than

of extra light. However, it was certainly

to a controller that distributes 12V power

directly from the console. This reduced

important to see the actors well. On the

and DMX information. While the LED tape

the distance of the DMX transmission and

car itself, we used a combination of con-

controller also uses 12V power and could

ensured that interference would be mini-

ventional lighting fixtures and LED tape to

have been connected directly to the battery,

mized. We plugged the receiver straight

solve these issues. For the car’s headlights,

I also needed to power the portable dim-

into the portable dimmer pack and then ran

we used some old PAR56s from our inven-

mer pack that controlled the headlights and

a cable from the portable pack to the LED

tory, and we cut down the casing so that

the DMX receiver antenna with standard

controller. Once the LED controller and

they’d look more like headlights. We were

120V wall current. To solve this challenge,

dimmer pack were given their addresses,

also able to use them as crowd-blinders

I connected a DC-to-AC power inverter to

we had remote control of the lights in the

during some of the fantasy moments in the

provide the 120V current for those devices.

car wirelessly from the lighting console.

number, “Waiting for a Girl Like You.” To

Getting control

Things to consider

illuminate the actors while they were inside

Once everything was powered, we

Make sure your wireless frequencies

the car, we wrapped RGB LED tape inside

needed to make the DMX control con-

don’t overlap. The Donner Wireless DMX

the windshield.

nection. There’s a saying, “If you can run

transmitter/receivers can operate on seven

Powering the parts

a cable, you should,” because wireless

frequencies. If you’re using wireless micro-

I used a rechargeable 12V battery that

technology is never as reliable as wired,

phones, you will want to give yourself some

fit underneath the car seats to power all

but I have found the Donner Wireless DMX

time to make sure you’re on a frequency

the devices on the car. The location of the

transmitters and receivers to be very reli-

that doesn’t interfere with your wireless

battery was important so that it would

able in smaller spaces. In this application,

microphones. You can easily change the

be easy to remove and recharge between

we connected the transmitting antenna

frequency if you do run into issues.

6 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

Always double check your power requirements! If you don’t have enough space for an inverter and need to wire

Step-by-Step Instructions

things in a more compact way (for instance, the base of the magic lamp in Mary Poppins), there are smaller battery packs available.

You will also need to account for power variances. Most LED controllers use 12V power, but the wireless DMX antennae use 5V power. A 12V to 5V step-down converter would do the trick in this instance. Each scenario is unique and will require its own solution for proper power distribution.

Battery power only lasts so long. Make sure you adequately test whether your system will last the length of time you need it. I did a test once with a single spool of LED tape running a color chase on wireless

Step 1: Gather (clockwise, from bottom left) 12V battery, inverter, RBG LED tape, LED controller with power adapter, wireless DMX receiver and portable dimmer pack.

Step 4: Connect the DMX cables and assign addresses to gain control of the LED tape and headlights.

DMX, and it lasted about an hour. More

MATERIALS AND COSTS

power consumption will last less time, though noncontinuous usage might give you more time. Always do your homework

1 12V Battery

so it doesn’t fail during a show.

You may need adapters. The Donner Wireless DMX antennae use 3-pin con-

to use adapters that get you from 3-pin to

to your situation. Allow yourself the time

39.99 20.15 149.99

1 Donner Wireless DMX

dimmer packs you have, you might need

on the system you have and will be unique

1 Inverter 1 12-Battery Charger 1 Portable Dimmer Pack

nectors. Depending on the controllers and

5-pin or ethernet control. This will depend

$ 38.99

Step 2: Connect the inverter to the battery, then power the dimmer, LED converter and receiver through the inverter.

in your schedule to order new parts if it

transmitter/receiver

49.99

1 LED tape

11.98

1 LED controller

19.99

2 PAR cans (from stock) $37.95/each *

doesn’t all connect correctly the first time.

0.00

Adapters, as needed

(from stock)

The end result

The car in Rock of Ages is one of my

Total cost:

favorite pieces from a show. While I had

0.00

$331.08

* If PAR cans must be purchased, total cost is $406.98.

some previous experience with wirelessly controlled, low-voltage LED tape, this was the first time I added remotely controlled fixtures to a system that was completely battery-powered. In our production, the effect lasted less than 10 minutes, so we never had any problems with our battery running out. The LED tape windshield gave us the flexibility to see the actors well, while

Step 3: Connect the LED tape to the DMX decoder and the PAR can/headlights to the dimmer pack.

David Page is a lighting and projection designer based in Birmingham, AL. He also serves as the stage electrics coordinator for the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

keeping the rest of the stage dimly lit. In the end, being completely wireless made for much easier and smoother scene changes that didn’t require stage hands to manage the electrical cables. n

Do you have an idea for an Outside the Box column?

Email Outside the Box Editor David Glenn at djglenn@samford.edu for information on submission requirements.

Winter 2021 x Southern Theatre x 7

YES, AND . . .

Moving Racial Equity and Justice from the Page to the Stage

by D e r r i ck Va n m e t e r

Theatre is a verb before it is a noun, an act before it is a place.

- Martha Graham

I

In the wake of renewed calls for racial equity and justice following the deaths of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and George Floyd in 2020, theatres across the U.S. began to formulate and post statements of solidarity on web pages and social media platforms. Many of the solidarity statements contained variations of “We hear you, we see you.” Around the same time, over 300 Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) theatre makers published an open letter to the white theatre community.

“We see you,” they said. “We have always seen you. We have watched you pretend to not see us.”

The letter, posted by a coalition of theatre artists known as We See You, White American Theater, reflected longstanding criticisms of the theatre industry by BIPOC artists, who are demanding real, measurable change. In July, the writers of the open letter published a 29-page list of demands for all aspects of the theatre community. As theatres across the country respond, it’s clear that just stating solidarity doesn’t begin to address the issues.

Rather, theatres must lay out the steps they will take in response to those demands.

Anti-racist artist and educator Nicole Brewer says solidarity must be offered not as a noun, but as a verb, connoting action.

“If [someone says] ‘I’m in solidarity with you,’ that in itself becomes a shield for me being able to name the harm I have actively been engaged in with that community… within the structures, policies and practices of that organization,” Brewer said.

Similarly, Michael Bobbitt, artistic director of New Repertory Theatre (New Rep) in the Boston, MA, area, notes the importance of developing a plan and tracking results. “[Doing so] keeps us from being stuck in the solidarity belief system,” Bobbitt said.

“There are so many people that are ‘in solidarity’ but there’s not action.”

Just as theatre makers take the text of the play and transform the words on the page into action on the stage, the theatre industry must transform mere statements of solidarity into measurable action.

Southern Theatre asked artistic leaders from the Southeast and beyond to share how they are approaching this work. Five theatres – Actor’s Express (Atlanta), Radical Buffoons (New Orleans), Theatre Horizon (Norristown, PA), Brown Box Theatre Project (Boston, MA/ Berlin, MD) and New Rep (Watertown, MA) – have created and posted action plans, while Alabama Shakespeare Festival was in the middle of developing its action plan as this story was being researched. In Lexington, KY, representatives of five area theatres have taken a different route – joining together to create a collective, Theatre for Equity, Accountability, Community and Healing (TEACH), which is working to listen and create a list of action items that local theatres can adopt.

What issues are being addressed in plans?

American Theater movement, which called out the-

Most of those interviewed described their theatres’

atres for a lack of cultural competency, for working

engagement with BIPOC artists and audiences as

and hiring practices that alienated BIPOC artists and

minimal prior to 2020, noting a lack of full represen-

staff members, for homogenous board composition

tation in programming, casting, employment and

and for a lack of representation in theatre productions.

additional areas. Those shortcomings include some

For example, in Atlanta, more than 50% of the

of the same issues raised by the We See You, White

population is BIPOC, but only 12% of plays produced by

Nicole Brewer Anti-Racist Artist and Educator

Michael Bobbitt New Repertory Theatre

Opposite page: (Re)Current Unrest, staged virtually at the University of Texas at Austin in October 2020, is an eveninglength immersive performance installation that creator and director Charles O. Anderson describes as “a meditation on the ‘American Dream’ and Black nihilism, born of the current racially charged moment.”

It was presented in partnership with Texas Performing Arts and Fusebox Festival.

Winter 2021 x Southern Theatre x 9

Atlanta area theatres

In addition to issues with representa-

gramming one ‘Black show,’ typically near

in the 2019 season

tion, scores of BIPOC artists have experi-

February, and then hoping that artists of

were written by

enced racism in the industry in other ways,

color will show up to audition,” Greene

BIPOC playwrights,

such as casting processes with discrimina-

said. “Inclusivity is not filling a slot in

according to the

tory practices, lighting designers who iden-

your season, and it is not the ‘heroes and

Coalition for Racial

tify non-white skin tones as a “problem,”

holidays’ approach to theatre education

Equity in Atlanta

costume designers who are not prepared

when a Hispanic playwright is highlighted

to talk about Black hair and makeup, and

during Hispanic Heritage month, but not

practices that place BIPOC artists in unsafe

beyond October 15.”

conditions.

How do we start?

Theatre (CREAT), an organization formed by a group of Atlanta

Rick Dildine Alabama Shakespeare Festival

Theatres across

A good first step is to identify, recognize

tally reshape the Atlanta theatre community

the country need

and take responsibility for the harm that

so that it prioritizes opportunities for the

to examine what

has been done through racist practices.

historically underserved and underrepre-

inclusivity looks like

“[To say] ‘we have harmed,’ that’s really

sented.” Similarly, Rick Dildine, artistic direc-

within their organi-

great, but if I’m just saying that without the

tor of Alabama Shakespeare Festival (ASF),

zations, notes Jessica

capacity to hear that pain, suffering or rage

found only 5% of plays presented in the past

Greene, associate

coming from that person, then I’ve created

50 years by ASF were by BIPOC writers.

artistic director of

artists to “fundamen-

Jessica Greene TEACH

another shield in a statement, which is not

Hiring practices are another area where

Distilled Theatre

action is needed. Bobbitt noted that, in the

Company in Lex-

you doing to have to sit with the sometimes

two years before he arrived at New Rep,

ington, KY, one of the theatres involved

extreme discomfort around that pain, rage,

the theatre had hired only 16 BIPOC artists.

in TEACH.

suffering from the build-up of that person’s

“The conventional idea of diversity

Since his arrival a little over a year ago, that number has increased to 57.

in theatre typically revolves around pro-

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a conversation,” Brewer said. “What are

experience with your organization?”

In Atlanta, CREAT partnered with Inclu-

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sion, Equity, Diversity in the Arts-Atlanta

further, detailing measurable steps the

(IDEA-ATL) in late June to address that

theatre commits to taking.

be doing a whole lot better,’” Ashley said.

The four-page Actor’s Express action

issue. The two organizations cohosted a

These measurable outcomes may

plan defines a wide range of categories for

massive three-night event, “Town Hall

include specific increases in the number of

diversity, including but not limited to race,

for Racial Reckoning.” Artistic directors,

BIPOC-written plays produced, commit-

color, sex and gender, and citizenship. The

board members, other leaders and artists

ments to equal representation on boards

goals range from ensuring that at least 50%

from theatres across the Atlanta area were

and other governing bodies, and commit-

of mainstage productions are written by

invited to sit in silence on Zoom, actively

ments to physical and psychological safety

BIPOC writers and women, to requiring

listening with video on, to the stories of

for BIPOC artists.

that casting teams will not be exclusively

BIPOC artists and their experiences in an

The theatres interviewed for this article

white, to structuring the intern program

industry that had not prioritized anti-racist

that have completed action plans included

in a way that enables interns to hold full-

practices. Over two nights, BIPOC artists

a range of goals in their documents.

time jobs outside of Actor’s Express. The

shared over 10 hours of testimony. Theatres

Actor ’s Express in Atlanta focused

were not allowed to contact, respond to, or

on “programming, artists, staff, board,

retaliate against these individuals (some of

intern company and audience,” said

whom shared anonymously). On the third

F r e d d i e A s h l e y,

Box employed categories from the We See

night, BIPOC artists came together without

artistic director of

You, White American Theater demands

any white participants or observers for a

Actor’s Express.

and added some additional categories to

night of healing facilitated by a psychologi-

“ We

plan also aims to have at least 50% BIPOC representation on the board.

In developing its action plan, Brown

always

address its specific circumstances. One of

cal professional.

thought we were a

the goals is to hire as many BIPOC artists

What should an action plan include?

leader in inclusion

for their 2021 season as possible. The season

Many theatres have created and posted

and then I looked

planned for 2020 will be moved to 2021,

statements about their commitment to

at our numbers and

diversity, but an action plan goes much

thought, ‘We could

Freddie Ashley Actor’s Express

and all existing contracts from 2020 will be upheld, but BIPOC artists will be sought to

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actively and explic-

PRODUCTION DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

with being BIPOC in a predominantly

itly anti-racist,” said

THEATRE FOR YOUTH

white institution (PWI).

Nell Bang-Jensen,

Department of Theatre and Dance ACTING AND DIRECTING MUSICAL THEATRE

DANCE MINOR

CONTACT:

samford.edu/arts arts@samford.edu 205-726-4111

Radical Buffoons took a creative

artistic director of

approach in developing its action plan,

Theatre Horizon. “I

framing it in terms of “Radical Safety,

find that, unless you

Radical Solidarity and Radical Creativity,”

put it on paper and make it measurable, it

with specific commitments for each “Radi-

doesn’t happen in real life.”

Nell Bang-Jensen Theatre Horizon

cal” idea. For example, Radical Buffoons

One of Theatre Horizon’s commitments

commits to radical safety by requiring anti-

is that board members will pledge to donate

racism training for all artists and staff, radi-

a percentage of their annual gift to the

cal solidarity by “[divesting] from vertical

theatre to a restricted Anti-Racist Action

models steeped in white supremacy,” and

Fund, which will provide money for a

radical creativity by developing three new

variety of activities, including anti-racist

plays in the coming year.

training and donations to Black-led orga-

Theatre Horizon in Norristown, PA,

nizations chosen by staff. Theatre Horizon

developed a 12-page document that

also commits to instituting term limits for

includes general statements and commit-

executive leadership. By September 2023,

School of Theater

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Some theatres have hired BIPOC con-

the term limit for an artistic director will be 12 years.

sultants to assist. Others have found the

New Rep published a 10-page IDEAA

We See You, White American Theater list

(Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access and

of demands, which is the result of hours of

Accountability) plan, which identifies

BIPOC labor, to be an important document.

short- and long-term goals, including the

New Rep consulted “A Framework for

hiring of BIPOC-led vendors, a concerted

Action in Response to Moments of Outrage

effort to increase BIPOC audiences by 20%,

& Crisis,” created by OF/BY/FOR/ALL,

Bring Your Artistry To Exciting New Levels!

the abolishment of 10 out of 12 tech rehears-

and “SMART Goals,” developed by Peter

als, and moving from a six-day to a five-day

F. Drucker.

LIU Post’s Theatre program offers a wide range of opportunities that will connect you to the industry as soon as you arrive. You’ll be able to:

How can theatres identify their

to develop their action plans, but Brewer

specific goals?

notes that this shields the organization from

There are numerous resources white

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Theatres often want to hire an “expert”

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accountability.

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“People want to bring me in because

ing potential needs in their communities.

they feel like I’m the expert,” Brewer said.

Theatres interviewed for this article unani-

“I’m a person who has a set of lived experi-

mously identified BIPOC members of their

ences. I have an analysis, and I have some

own communities as the most important

offerings, but what I don’t have is any kind

resource in determining goals. However,

of expertise or magic wand to fix what’s

BIPOC staff members at some theatres

happening within your own community.

have indicated they would prefer not to

You’ve got to do that work, and that means

participate in the initial stages of making

you’re going to have to be accountable for

action plans.

yourself doing the work.”

Capture your horizon.

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All of the artistic leaders interviewed

Jensen said, prompting the theatre to ask:

for this article spoke about the importance

“How do we ensure that many voices are

of community and collective creation in

being represented and at the same time not

the development of their action plans. By

be asking BIPOC board, staff, artists [and]

sharing leadership and working as a com-

audience members to be doing labor that

munity, theatres can develop action plans

they didn’t want to do or that was unfair

that address Brewer’s three guiding prin-

to be asking of them?”

ciples for anti-racist action: harm reduction,

Bang-Jensen said that open individual

harm prevention and relationship repair.

conversations and a recognition that BIPOC

She says theatres should ask themselves

persons may not want to be involved were

the question: “How [are we] asking the

helpful in navigating this challenge.

community what they need, which could

How do you develop an action plan?

be very different from what [we] feel they

While action plans may be unified in

need in order for us to live amends as an

intent and specific

organization?”

points of action, the

Brewer also notes the importance of

process of develop-

allowing BIPOC artists to refuse involve-

ment is different for

ment in this work. When theatres expect

every theatre. There

them to participate, it “doesn’t allow the

is no one-size-fits-

space for people [who do not] want to be

all-approach. Each

in relationship with folks that have been

theatre has to do the

harming them up until this point.”

work of listening,

Theatre Horizon experienced this

understanding and

reluctance from some BIPOC artists, Bang-

responding to the

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needs of their particular community.

“We’re all not going to get there in the same way,” said Todd Schmidt, executive

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quickly to develop action plans, others emphasize the importance of slowing down and working deliberately.

director of Alabama Shakespeare Festival.

“This sense of urgency, which is a steeped

“Everybody’s process is going to be differ-

white supremacist behavior, is so connected

ent. I think it’s recognizing that we are part

to our industry,” said Jon Greene, artistic

of a journey and that it’s going to take time,

director of Radical

patience and understanding to get there.”

Buffoons in New

Realizing that each theatre’s path is

Orleans. “[One

different is important, Brewer said: “There

of] the things the

isn’t a perfect time to engage in this work,

pandemic did [was

there isn’t a perfect way into this work,

the] destabilizing of

there isn’t a right way into this work. There

normalcy. Urgency

is only the work.”

went out the win-

While some theatres have moved

dow. Because we

Jon Greene Radical Buffoons

ADVICE FROM THEATRES THAT HAVE CREATED ANTI-RACISM ACTION PLANS “Get to work. It’s hard work, but it needs to happen. Be open, honest, humble and transparent.”

- Kyler Taustin, Artistic Director, Brown Box Theatre Project, Boston, MA/Berlin, MD

“Create a plan that involves outcomes that can be measured. Don’t just say, ‘We’re committed to diversity.’”

- Freddie Ashley, Artistic Director, Actor’s Express, Atlanta, GA

“Changing people’s hearts and minds is individual work and a longer game.

What your plans can do now is make it difficult for racism to exist in your organization … Think about action plans as acts of love toward people who have never been loved by this country.”

- Michael Bobbitt, Artistic Director, New Repertory Theatre, Watertown, MA

“You have to be willing to screw it up, and when you get it wrong, be willing to say, ‘We got it wrong, and here’s a change.’”

- Jon Greene, Artistic Director, Radical Buffoons, New Orleans, LA

“You may lose people along the way, but you have to think about who you are doing this for and what you are willing to risk. You may have people who aren’t ready for that change and you have to consider, ‘What stakeholders am I prioritizing here?’”

- Nell Bang-Jensen, Artistic Director, Theatre Horizon, Norristown, PA

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“This is a time for shared leadership.”

- Rick Dildine, Artistic Director, Alabama Shakespeare Festival

“Don’t just adopt someone’s plan or action steps but really make them your own and figure out how they work best for your specific organization.”

- Todd Schmidt, Executive Director, Alabama Shakespeare Festival

Find your passion.

B F A • THEA T RE pe rform a nc e s ce ne des ign c ostu m e des i g n li ghting des ig n s t ag e m a na ge m e n t

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by Qui Nguyen

• • • • •

AWAR D WIN N IN G ST U D ENTS P RE STIG IOU S A LU MN I WORKING IN NYC, CHICAGO, ATLANTA AN D LA WO RK IN G P ROF E S S IO N AL FACULTY L O CA L P RO FE S S IO N A L OPPORTUNITIES IN RICHM OND, VA N AT IO N A L LY R E C OG N IZ ED GUEST ARTISTS

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20 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

were forced to let go of our urgency, we

them with anti-racist

were able to examine all the things we

practices.

wanted to do with our collective that get

In creating action

pushed to the side because of being in

plans, theatres have

production.”

to overcome chal-

Bang-Jensen of Theatre Horizon also

l e n g e s . To u r i n g

noted that “because we are so in the psy-

c o m p a n y B ro w n

chology of production, people can quickly

Box Theatre Proj-

feel like they’re working to put out fires all

ect, though based

the time and not doing long-range, deeper

in Boston, MA, and

thinking that I think is required for real

Berlin, MD, performs in over 40 venues

change to happen in this industry.”

across five states. That large performance

Kyler Taustin Brown Box Theatre Project

This doesn’t imply that theatres can hold

area made one of the action items from

off on beginning this work. The important

the We See You, White American Theater

thing is not being finished with the work,

demands – a statement acknowledging the

but doing the work.

Indigenous and enslaved people who lived

One unifying aspect of the theatres that

and labored on the lands where theatres

developed or are developing action plans

were built – a daunting task, said Kyler

was the willingness to get it wrong, course-

Taustin, artistic director. But it was an

correct, and continue moving forward. The

important step, he added, and they did the

communications from We See You, White

work necessary to complete the statement.

American Theater explicitly state that the

Even though it is a smaller theatre – with

demands are a living document. Following

an annual operating budget of less than

suit, Bang-Jensen says, “We acknowledge in

$200,000 and only one full-time employee

the [action plan] that it’s a living, breathing

– Brown Box was determined to set specific

document that’s going to change.”

goals looking toward the future.

Jessica Greene, representing the TEACH

“We made sure we did not let a lack of

collective in Central Kentucky, noted that

resources be a reason to not respond to a

getting past participants’ worries about

certain demand,” Taustin said. “We forced

perception is important in developing an

ourselves to say, ‘That is beyond our current

action plan.

means. That doesn’t take us off the hook.

“I think our TEACH team had to over-

What are we going to do in the meantime to

come the fear of being wrong or saying

address the demand? What are the stepping

something wrong,” Greene said. “The dif-

stones we take along the way?’”

ficult conversations began timidly at first. I,

One of the out-of-reach goals was to

as a woman of color, was trying to avoid

offer and require anti-racism training for

the ‘angry Black woman’ stigma when

all staff and artists. Taustin identified a

expressing inequities I had experienced in

specific stepping stone toward this goal: A

the theatre, while my non-Black colleagues

percentage of donations collected after each

were trying to avoid saying anything

performance (most of Brown Box’s shows

that may come off as ignorant. As we

are offered at no charge) will be moved into

bonded and learned to trust one another,

restricted accounts to pay for programs

those walls began to come down and we

such as equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI)

were able to see that our hearts matched

training for all employees and artists.

the mission and vision we wrote together,

Another challenge many theatres identi-

and our conversations became more produc-

fied was a hesitance from board members

tive, more meaningful and more uplifting.”

to make changes that impact revenues,

The creation of these “brave spaces”

subscriptions and benefits for donors. Both

fosters the type of dialogue necessary to

New Rep and Theatre Horizon created poli-

break down racist policies and replace

cies specifying that all donors, regardless

Associate of Applied Arts Degrees

Acting Musical Theatre Filmmaking

KD Conservatory offers Associate Degrees in Acting, Musical Theatre and Filmmaking. KD Conservatory is accredited through NAST. Financial Aid is available for those who qualify.

of the amount of their financial support,

ments are categorized under headers such

would receive the same benefits.

as Artistic and Curatorial Choices, Working

Some theatres faced resistance from

Conditions and Hiring Practices, and EDI +

board members over concerns that

Touring, which contain large umbrella com-

increased BIPOC representation would

mitments. A click expands each category to

alienate current subscribers and patrons.

provide more detailed explanations.

Bobbitt of New Rep addressed these fears,

Radical Buffoons presents its action plan

asserting that anti-racism action steps actu-

in a series of three images, each dedicated

ally expand the pool of audience members.

to its commitments to Radical Safety, Radi-

“Know that diversity is good for busi-

cal Solidarity and Radical Creativity. These

ness,” he said. “When you become an anti-

images were posted to the Radical Buf-

racist structure, you’re going to open up

foons’ website and its Facebook page.

your doors to so many people that would

Continuing the work

not have come otherwise.”

Finally, when the plan has been pub-

Sharing the action plan

lished and action steps have been imple-

Once a theatre has begun to engage

mented, what is the next step? Theatres

in this work – listening to those who are

must follow through on these commitments

impacted by racist policies and practices –

and be accountable to their plans. New Rep

and has created an action plan, it is impor-

created a tracking sheet to visually repre-

tant to share it with others. Many theatres

sent its goals. Bobbitt was also very specific

have chosen to present their plans in a

in establishing timelines for each goal so

single document, organizing commitments

there would be deadlines for accomplishing

under relevant categories.

particular tasks. Actor’s Express intends

Actor’s Express presents its plan in a

to evaluate its progress quarterly, while

Google document link at the bottom of the

other theatres have established their own

“About” section on its website. Interested

intervals to assess the results of their work.

readers can download the plan or view it

Once goals have been achieved, the next

in their browser. The presentation is clear,

step must be to continue the work.

systematic and organized. Before distribut-

“When we hit certain benchmarks,”

ing it to the public, Actor’s Express asked

Ashley of Actor’s Express says, “what are

an attorney who specializes in EDI to

the new benchmarks?”

review the plan.

- We stand for Diversity equity

Looking at the Atlanta area, where some

“We wanted to make sure that there was

theatres seemed to have made measurable

nothing in the plan that was unintentionally

progress as they announced their season

discriminatory that would actually cause

plans for the coming year, Diany Rodriguez

further injury,” Ashley said.

of CREAT echoed Ashley’s point.

Both New Rep and Theatre Horizon

“We have to approach this with a ‘Yes,

have posted their plans as downloadable

and…’ attitude,” Rodriguez said. “Yes, that

PDF documents on their websites. New

is great, and what is next?”

Rep’s IDEAA plan can be found under the

The work of anti-racism is not a destina-

“Explore” tab. Theatre Horizon’s can be

tion, but a journey. The important thing is

found under the “About” tab. The housing

not just to start the work, but to make it part

of these plans near other information such

of your theatre’s work going forward. n

as the mission, vision and history of the organization points to the core importance

@TechTheatreDept

318-257-2711 louisianatechtheatre.com 22 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

of these action plans for each organization.

Brown Box chose to place its commitments on its website with a link from the home page to a specific page that presents the plan in an expandable format. Commit-

Derrick Vanmeter is an associate professor of theatre design at Clayton State University in Morrow, GA, and a member of SETC’s Publications Committee. His research interests include inclusion strategies for marginalized voices in theatre.

Musical Theatre

B.F. Ain. Theatre arts

www.molloy.edu/theatre-arts Manhattan & Rockville Centre, NY

DOLLARS AND SENSE Professors and Other Experts Share Advice on Financing Your Theatre Degree

by Amy Cuomo

M

Most performing arts students have heard that when it comes to theatre, the real work is getting the job. Just as an actor must audition to get a part, those seeking to finance their education have to invest time and energy to reach their goal.

This past summer, Southern Theatre surveyed SETC members affiliated with colleges, universities and training programs and asked them to share financial aid advice for theatre students, as well as information on scholarships at their schools. In addition, Southern Theatre asked admissions directors and financial aid directors to share tips for students.

The challenges that students face begin long before they step on campus. One of the biggest mistakes that Steven Roten, a theatre professor at Meredith College in North Carolina, sees is that sometimes students don’t have their financial plans in order before school starts.

“I have had students who have to figure out how they are going to pay tuition each and every semester,” Roten said. “This adds a great amount of stress to the student and keeps them on a shifting foundation that makes them question the permanence of their education.”

Part of the problem for many students and their parents is that college is expensive, and the financial aid process can be overwhelming. A key to success is to make the time to educate yourself. Fortunately, there are many resources that can help. From government websites to video tutorials, there is a plethora of information on the financial aid process provided by experts in the field. Studentaid.gov details comprehensive information regarding federal student aid, and it publishes a “College Preparation Checklist” that explains the different types of financial assistance and includes a timeline to map your progress. The website also incorporates facts and figures for those who wish to go to graduate school and for adult learners returning to college. For more specific suggestions related to financing your theatre education, college and university theatre professors can supply valuable advice.

DO FAFSA AND APPLICATIONS EARLY

At most colleges, universities and training pro-

of the Etherredge Center at the University of South Carolina Aiken, recommends contacting “the admis-

your education is to fill out the Free Application for

sions office to find a list of all scholarships for which

Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) – and the sooner the

you might qualify.”

better, to ensure you have the greatest chance to secure

And Deborah Martin, chair of the theatre depart-

assistance. The FAFSA is required for a student to

ment at Berea College in Kentucky, says you should

receive federal grants, loans and work-study. Whether

not be afraid to ask questions “of the chair, your aca-

your family expects to apply for federal aid or not,

demic advisor, your admissions counselor, etc. Don’t

you should fill out the FAFSA.

assume that your question is insignificant. Make it your job to read your email every day and respond

for federal funding, many colleges and universities

when necessary.”

use FAFSA information in scholarship and other

CONSIDER THE COSTS

institutional funding decisions,” said Megan Speth,

Knowing how much money you will need for the

director of financial aid at Mary Baldwin University

school of your dreams can help you plan. CollegeCalc.

in Virginia.

org includes an analysis of each college’s tuition com-

Generally, the sooner you fill out the FAFSA and

pared to the national average and estimates the cost

begin applying to the schools that are of interest to

of housing, books, supplies and other living expenses.

you, the better your chance of receiving aid.

Megan Speth Mary Baldwin University

It also reveals the average aid amount provided

“Many scholarships are determined early,” noted

to students by colleges and universities. However,

Eric van Baars, an associate professor and director

some universities with expensive sticker prices can

of the School of Theatre and Dance at Kent State

provide large aid packages, so keep in mind that the

University in Ohio.

dollar amounts listed on CollegeCalc.org are based

As you navigate the process of applying, Paul

Steven Roten Meredith College

Crook, an associate professor and executive director

grams, the first step you should take toward financing

“While some families may not necessarily qualify

See list of scholarships at schools that participated in the SETC survey at www.setc.org/ scholarship-list

Eric van Baars Kent State University

on average awards. Your award could be greater or Winter 2021 x Southern Theatre x 25

those add up quickly,” he said. “Even at the more prestigious schools, remember that you are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you. While a program may seem fantastic and have tons of exciting alumni, no program is perfect for everyone.

You are looking to find the right fit for you.”

Public institutions usually are less Paul Crook University of South Carolina Aiken

Heather McMahon Maryville College

Carrie Klofach Milligan University

Tom Burch University of North Carolina at Charlotte

expensive than private ones, although private schools sometimes offer substantial scholarships that bring the costs more in

smaller depending on your circumstances.

opportunities because you assumed you

line with public school tuition. Professors

“Don’t be put off by the sticker price,”

couldn’t afford it,” she said. “Your financial

at two-year institutions note that starting

said Heather McMahon, a professor of

aid package will look different at every

out at a community college, where tuition

theatre at Maryville College in Tennessee.

school.”

is lower, and transferring to a four-year institution as a junior may also cut educa-

“Apply and wait for offers so that you can

In looking at the cost of attendance, stu-

compare the actual cost of each institution

dents need to realize that tuition is just one

you are considering.”

component, noted Tom Burch, an associate

“Research community colleges in the

professor of scenic design at the University

area and get your first two years done

of North Carolina at Charlotte.

[there],” suggested Jessica Gaffney, chair

Carrie Klofach, an assistant professor of musical theatre at Milligan University in

tion costs.

Tennessee, also noted that students should

“While tuition may look like a ‘good

of theatre at Cape Fear Community College

not eliminate schools before seeing their

deal,’ many students/families fail to

in North Carolina. “Knock out all of your

individual aid packages.

adequately estimate the proper cost of

general education courses [in community

housing/food/books/fees/materials, and

college].”

“Don’t miss out on some financial aid

26 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

Because living expenses can add sig-

major tuition discounts. Most schools offer

are offered. Your letter will also note the

nificantly to the cost of college, staying at

some kind of financial aid for students that

expected family contribution (EFC). Do not

home and attending community college

transfer into the program, but whether or

hesitate to seek guidance in understanding

for the first two years can save students

not it’s going to be a better bargain in the

the award letter and your total cost.

and their families a substantial amount of

long run is likely determined case by case.”

Your letter may include grants and

money. Also, some community colleges

In addition to researching the costs of

scholarships, which do not have to be

maintain transfer agreements with four-

institutions, consider your own financial

repaid, as well as options for federal loans

year institutions so that the credits earned

situation in making a decision about

and work-study. Any costs not covered by

while attending the two-year school can be

whether a school is right for you.

this aid will have to be paid out of pocket.

“Have realistic conversations as a family

The best kind of aid, of course, is money

While that can be a good option for

about what is financially reasonable and

that does not have to be repaid: grants

many students, it may not be right for all. At

what isn’t,” recommended Jacob Browne,

and scholarships. Some grants, such as

some schools, entering as a junior can make

director of admissions at Eckerd College in

Pell grants, are federal awards based on

a difference in scholarship availability, said

Florida. “Keep your options open in case

income, while others may be awarded to

Marty Lynch, an associate professor of

your ‘dream school’ does not work out

people pursuing certain careers or meeting

theatre at Eureka College in Illinois.

financially.”

other criteria.

UNDERSTAND THE TYPES OF AID

SCORE A SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP

applied to the bachelor’s degree.

“If you absolutely need financial aid, you are probably looking at affordable two-

After a student is accepted at a college

Scholarships at institutions are typically

year programs as well, with the intention of

or university, the institution will provide

based on financial need or upon merit.

transferring into a four-year program down

an award letter that outlines the financial

Standardized test scores and grade point

the road,” Lynch said. “Some scholarships

aid package offered to the student. Award

averages are often factors in the award of

are only available to incoming freshmen.

letters vary from institution to institution

merit-based scholarships.

If you transfer in as a junior with an AA

but generally provide an estimated cost of

“Our university offers students merit

[degree], you may wind up missing out on

attendance (COA) and any aid that you

awards as soon as they apply,” said Michele

ROCK THE BARD

MLitt/MFA in Shakespeare & Performance at Mary Baldwin in partnership with the American Shakespeare Center www.marybaldwin.edu/shakespeare

A RENAISSANCE EDUCATION IN RENAISSANCE DRAMA Winter 2021 x Southern Theatre x 27

Pagen, a professor of theatre at California

design at the University of Tennessee,

University of Pennsylvania. “The amount

Knoxville.

increases according to GPA.”

BA/BS in Theatre NAST Accredited Scholarships Available

www.radford.edu/theatre 540-831-5141

F. Randy deCelle, head of MFA design

In addition to the general merit-based

and technical production at the University

scholarships that all students vie for, you’ll

of Alabama, notes that “the department is

also want to explore theatre-specific schol-

going to have the most up-to-date informa-

arships. Information on those is usually

tion regarding department-level scholar-

found within the theatre department or

ships, work-study or even potential paid

theatre program. College and university

positions with the given department. And

faculty members responding to the Southern

the bigger the university or college, the

Theatre survey reported scholarships for

more important it is to contact the depart-

theatre majors in amounts ranging from

ment directly first. Start at the websites.”

under $1,000 to as much as full tuition, with

If you are interested in acting or design,

some scholarships renewable for all four

you often need to audition or create a port-

years. (See the list of school scholarships

folio that you can share. Professors will be

provided by faculty in the online survey at

looking for “a very strong audition and

www.setc.org/scholarship-list.)

portfolio,” said Roger Del Pozo, director

Once you’ve decided on a school that

of outreach for the New York Film Academy.

you may wish to attend, theatre profes-

Timing is important in receiving both

sors say it is important that you reach out

general school-wide scholarships and those

beyond the admissions office.

specific to theatre. If you wait too long to

“Talk to the department and individual

apply, scholarship dollars may already

faculty members,” suggested Christopher

be committed. Timing also can play an

Pickart, an associate professor of scenic

important role in how much money you

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS Bachelor of Fine Arts • Acting • Musical Theatre Bachelor of Arts • Music • Theatre Bachelor of Music • Musical Theatre • Piano Performance • Vocal Performance Bachelor of Science • Music • Music Education P-12 Teacher Certification

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Minors • Music Certificates • Theatre • Production Technologies GRADUATE PROGRAMS Master of Arts • Musical Theatre • Worship Leadership & Theology Master of Music • Music Education Non-Certification

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28 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

receive at many schools.

“Audition early to be considered for the highest scholarship amounts,” said Tara Warfield, chair of the Department of Theatre and Musical Theatre at Shorter University in Georgia.

Also, consider the best times to visit schools. Avoid contacting the theatre department in the summer months if possible, deCelle recommends.

“For many places, the absolute worst

Jessica Gaffney Cape Fear Community College

Jacob Browne Eckerd College

F. Randy deCelle University of Alabama

Tara Warfield Shorter University

The freshman scholarships aren’t the only

time to reach out to theatre practitioners

As you begin to get offers from different

working in academia is during the sum-

schools, you shouldn’t base your decision

mer,” deCelle said. “Many are working

to attend strictly on how much scholarship

Professors also urge you to ask questions

summer stock or other positions during

help you might get as a freshman, advised

and state your needs clearly. Don’t be afraid

the summer so may not have access or time

Britton Lynn, a professor of theatre at Hard-

to ask for more aid if the package you are

to appropriately deal with all of the ques-

ing University in Arkansas. Some schools,

being offered is not enough.

tions. The biggest mistake is to just show up

he noted, may offer larger amounts to

unannounced at a department during the

returning students.

opportunity for merit-based aid.”

“Advocate for yourself!” recommends Natalie Robin, head of the Theatre Design

summer… However, if [potential students]

“Don’t use the amounts awarded to

and Technology Department at the Uni-

make contact with the department ahead

freshmen as the only factor,” Lynn said.

versity of the Arts in Pennsylvania. “Ask

of time, typically someone, likely the chair,

“We don’t want to give away the bank just

questions. Push for more aid. Be honest

will be glad to meet, because, after all, it’s

based on our first impression. We want to

and upfront about what you actually need

all about the students.”

reward consistent strength and growth.

to make it work.”

Winter 2021 x Southern Theatre x 29

JACKSONVILLE UNIVERSITY LINDA BERRY STEIN COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS

THEATRE

SEEK SCHOLARSHIPS FROM

to really use the profile feature that each

OTHER ORGANIZATIONS

website has. They will ask all kinds of

While financial aid awards received

questions about your interests, where you

directly from institutions often comprise a

live, extracurriculars, etc. These allow their

significant amount of the money students

site to narrow down and send you scholar-

receive for college, outside scholarships

ships that you might qualify for. Everyone

can help defray some of the additional

applies for large scholarships, but there are

expenses. As with applying for financial

some really specific scholarships – maybe

aid, it helps to start early in applying for

one for a student interested in theatre from

these scholarships. Many of the award

a county in Georgia who has danced for

applications are due in the fall for the fol-

more than five years. If you don’t answer

lowing year.

the questions in the profile, you might not

Organizations dedicated to theatre often

U N D E R G RAD UAT E DEGREES:

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Technology Bachelor of Arts in Theatre L E AR N M O R E AT :

www.ju.edu/cfa

be sent that scholarship.”

offer scholarships. For example, SETC

While you may be able to find some

awards the Steve Bayless Undergraduate

theatre-specific scholarships online, don’t

Scholarship, which provides $2,000 to a

limit your search only to those, recom-

high school student on entering a college

mends Crook of the University of South

or university in the SETC region to major

Carolina Aiken.

in theatre. SETC also provides a number of

“Do your research online to see what

awards for graduate students. View SETC

other entities are out there offering schol-

scholarships and awards here: setc.org/

arship money,” he said. “From churches to

scholarships-awards/scholarships.

civic organizations to national essay com-

Playbill offers a list of “Thirteen College

petitions, there is a lot of money out there

Scholarships for Arts Students” online. The

for students, if you only take the time to

focus of the list is on the performing arts,

look. And don’t scoff at what you think is

including several one-time scholarships

a ‘small’ amount. Remember that you can

for students who intend to study theatre.

stack scholarships on top of each other, and

Beyond that, you can search the web

every little bit helps.”

for arts- or theatre-related scholarships.

Klofach of Milligan University notes that

However, Wilmani Humphries, senior

students may also be able to find scholar-

financial aid advisor at the University of

ships offered by organizations where indi-

West Georgia, cautions that students need

viduals in the family are members.

to be careful in their online searches.

“Make a list of family connections – non-

“A number of websites exist only to steal

profits, heritage organizations, veterans’

student data and personal identifying infor-

associations, churches, employer scholar-

mation,” he said. “To avoid this, ensure the

ship programs – and do some research

website is not requesting money upfront,

into scholarship programs they may have,”

guaranteeing that you’ll win, or has very

she said.

few eligibility requirements. Also, check

Benard Cummings, an associate pro-

the ‘About Us’ section of the website and do

fessor of theatre at Southern Methodist

AP P LY N OW:

additional research about the organization,

University in Texas, noted that major com-

www.ju.edu/apply

based on the content they have provided

panies also offer scholarships.

there. Remember that if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.”

2800 University Blvd N. Jacksonville FL 32211 | (904)- 256-7370

30 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

“Talk to your high school counselor about all of the wonderful scholarships

Speth of Mary Baldwin University says

and grants offered by major companies,

the two major sites she recommends to

including Fortune 500 companies,” Cum-

students searching for scholarships are

mings said.

fastweb.com and scholarships.com.

Simply keeping your grades up in high

“Both are legitimate sources that have

school also may open doors to additional

been vetted,” she said. “The key here is

money. Alan Yeong-Marcello, a professor of

Natalie Robin University of the Arts

Wilmani Humphries University of West Georgia

theatre at the University of West Georgia,

Benard Cummings Southern Methodist University

Alan Yeong-Marcello University of West Georgia

ADD LOANS AS NEEDED

noted that some states offer scholarships

Scholarships are wonderful because

to high school students who graduate

they are “free” money that does not have

with grade point averages above a certain

to be repaid. But most students also need

level.

to take out loans in order to pay for college.

“Do excellent work during your high

There are two major categories of stu-

school career,” he recommended. “There

dent loans: federal and private. You must

are many state scholastic scholarships

fill out a FAFSA in order to receive a federal

[awarded] to those with excellent grades.

Stafford loan, which is either subsidized

In the state of Georgia, for example, incom-

(if family income meets certain criteria) or

ing freshmen could qualify for the HOPE

unsubsidized (for those above that level).

Scholarship or the Zell Miller Scholarship.

Students do not have to pay interest on

Continue your highest pursuit in your aca-

subsidized Stafford loans until after they

demic goals, and opportunities will come.”

graduate or cease to attend college, while

Because of the time that it takes to apply

unsubsidized Stafford Loans accrue inter-

for scholarships, especially if there is an

est immediately. The FAFSA also must be

essay involved, you need to work strategi-

completed for parents to apply for PLUS

cally to increase your odds of success.

loans, federal loans that parents can receive

“You want to ensure you meet the basic

to help pay college expenses for the student.

eligibility requirements for the scholarship,

Private loans are usually obtained

but never discount yourself,” Humphries

by students and/or their parents to pay

of the University of West Georgia advised.

expenses in excess of what the aid package

“Scholarship searching can be frustrating,

will cover. Interest rates and availability

but it’s important that you don’t give up.

are based on credit ratings. There are other

You’ll likely apply for quite a few scholar-

types of loans available for those seeking an

ships before you are awarded one, but

undergraduate or graduate degree. You can

that’s additional funding in your pocket

find more information at Debt.org.

that doesn’t have to be repaid. To increase

The significance of taking out a student

your odds of success, apply and search for

loan can elude students. Student loans

scholarships throughout the year, not just

don’t go away even if you declare bank-

during the summer. Also, ensure you apply

ruptcy, and you will have to pay back

for scholarships for which you meet the

significantly more than you borrowed.

criteria. Finally, ensure your essay(s) have

This doesn’t mean students shouldn’t bor-

been proofread by multiple professionals

row money to go to school, but planning is

you trust. Once you have enough essays,

essential. The reality of paying off student

you’ll want to save them somewhere safe

debt can be a harsh one. This is the reason

so that you can refer to them in the future

that ascertaining the exact amount you will

or make small edits to submit them for dif-

need to take out in loans is so important.

(Continued on Page 34)

ferent scholarship applications.”

BFA Theatre & Dance with concentrations in:

Follow the Creative Impulse BFA Theatre & Dance with concentrations In: Acting Dance Design Musical Theatre

BA Theatre & Dance with concentrations in: Acting Dance Design Located close to Nashville, in Clarksville, Tennessee, APSU has a student-centered training program that is focused on giving you the skills you need to work in a competitive industry. With six shows a year and multiple sh connections to professional troupes, our students get opportunities from day one to work collegiately and professionally in a supportive environment.

apsu.edu/theatredance Austin Peay State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, age, status as a protected veteran, genetic information or any other legally protected class with respect to all employment programs and activities sponsored by APSU. www.apsu.edu/policy. Policy 6:003 AP44/9-20/1

Winter 2021 x Southern Theatre x 31

WE NEED YOUR HELP! YOUR CONTRIBUTION CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

WE ARE 110% COMMITTED TO OUR CONSTITUENTS, INCLUSION, AND THE CRAFT OF THEATRE. It is rare that a non-profit organization operates like SETC. We rely very little on fundraising, but rather we sustain on event registrations. However, these times of industry shutdown and social quarantine make it apparent that we are going to need a helping hand.

HOW WE IMPACT THE INDUSTRY •

SETC connects many emerging artists with their first professional job.

•

SETC helps students be recruited by their dream college, university, or program.

•

SETC provides training and workshops to inspire career trajectory.

•

SETC offers commercial opportunities for realized business growth.

•

SETC fosters collaboration to face challenges and bring forth new ideas.

•

SETC organizes hiring events for theatres and production companies of all sizes to produce their best possible work.

•

SETC promotes and nurtures networking moments turning new colleagues into artistic collaborators.

•

SETC creates experiences where everyone feels accepted and free to flourish as theatremakers.

HOW TO MAKE A GIFT TO SETC ENCLOSED ENVELOPE Return the enclosed envelope with cash, check, or your card information. (Inserted in this magazine)

ONLINE Visit setc.org/donate

2021 College, University & Training Program Directory Looking for the best setting to launch your career in theatre? Or perhaps you’re seeking the perfect place to pursue an advanced degree in one of the theatre disciplines? To help you make those choices, we have compiled the most comprehensive directory available anywhere listing degrees and special programs offered at SETC member colleges, universities and training programs. Data for the profiles is provided by the institutions.

2021 SETC College, University ACCADEMIA DELL’ARTE San Fabiano 9 Arezzo, Italy 52100 Degrees: MFA: Devising and Physical Theatre; Study Abroad: Devising and Physical Theatre Profile: Accademia dell’Arte is a performing arts school in Arezzo, Tuscany, Italy. Housed at Villa Godiola, a Renaissance-era villa overlooking the city, we offer multiple levels of study abroad Physical Theatre training: Fall and Spring Semester (15 credits), One-Year Program (30 credits), Summer Intensives (up to 6 credits), an MFA in Physical Theatre and a Summer Faculty Symposium.

Contact: Bob Shryock 270-300-1146 robert.shryock@dellarte.it www.dellarte.it

ACTORS STUDIO DRAMA SCHOOL AT PACE UNIVERSITY 1 Pace Pl W527 New York, NY 10038 Degrees: MFA: Acting, Directing, Playwriting Profile: The only MFA program sanctioned by The Actors Studio that offers the authenticity of the Stanislavski System and the continuity of the Method. Applying the teachings of Strasberg, Adler and Meisner, students learn from a diverse body of world-class master teachers, in state-ofthe-art facilities located in downtown Manhattan.

Now offering online performing arts education and training to high school students around the world.

After-school and summer programs available.

D-2

Contact: Graduate Admissions 212-346-1531; ActorsStudioMFA@Pace.edu www.pace.edu/dyson ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre Arts PO Box 271 Montgomery, AL 36101 Degrees: BA: Performance, Technical Theatre, Theatre Generalist; BFA: Dance; Minor: Theatre, Dance Profile: Graduates are qualified theatre practitioners in acting, audience development, directing, dramaturgy, costume construction and design, set construction and design, light and sound design, theatrical makeup application, theatre history and theatre management.

Graduates who earn the BFA in dance are qualified for further study or professional companies to begin dance careers.

Contact: Brian Martin 334-229-6929; bmartin@alasu.edu www.alasu.edu AMDA COLLEGE OF THE PERFORMING ARTS 6305 Yucca St, Los Angeles, CA 90028 211 W 61st St, New York, NY 10023 Degrees: BFA: Dance, Musical Theatre, Acting, Performing Arts; Liberal Arts BA, Theatre; Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS): Acting, Musical Theatre, Dance Theatre; TwoYear Conservatory Certificate: Studio (Acting for Stage, Film and Television), Dance Theatre (Theatrical, Commercial and Concert Dance), Integrated (Acting, Music Theatre and Dance) Profile: Founded in 1964, AMDA provides rigorous, performance-based training by world-class faculty and an industry-focused education experience that prepares students for professional careers as performing artists.

Students enjoy the option of studying at both campuses while completing their degrees.

Scholarships offered through an audition process.

Visit www.amda.edu for list of famous alumni.

Contact: Blake Babbitt 800-367-7908; bbabbitt@amda.edu www.amda.edu AMERICAN ACADEMY OF DRAMATIC ARTS 120 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016 1336 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028 Degrees: AOS: Acting; Certificate of Completion: Acting; Options to continue at partnered schools for bachelor’s degree Profile: The American Academy of Dramatic Arts was the first conservatory for actors in the English-speaking world. Its purpose is to provide students with the tools to make acting their profession. Faculty are working professionals and master teachers whose goal is to prepare students for acting in theatre, television and film.

Contact: 800-463-8990 (NY); 800-222-2867 (LA); admissions@aada.edu www.AADA.edu

ANDERSON UNIVERSITY South Carolina School of the Arts 316 Boulevard Anderson, SC 29621 Degrees: BA: Theatre, Dance, Theatre (Theatrical Design); BFA: Theatre (Acting), Musical Theatre Profile: A Christian university providing excellence in performance, technical and arts administration opportunities; four venues (large and small proscenium, concert hall, black box); multiple dance spaces; courses in acting, directing, musical theatre, design, dance, stage movement, stagecraft, theatre history, theatre ministry and theatre forms. Auditions are required. Scholarships are available.

Contact: Laura Beth Cannon 864-760-1170 lbeckner@andersonuniversity.edu www.andersonuniversity.edu APPALACHIAN STATE UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre and Dance PO Box 32123 Boone, NC 28608 Degrees: BA: Dance Studies, Theatre Arts (Theatre Design/Technology, General Theatre, Theatre Performance, Theatre Education/K-12); Minor: Theatre Arts, Dance Studies, Somatic Sustainability Profile: Appalachian State University’s Depar tment of Theatre and Dance offers challenging coursework, a dynamic co-curricular production program and a student-faculty ratio of 6:1 – all in a liberal arts setting. It provides exemplary theatre and dance experiences to departmental students, as well as outreach opportunities within the community and the region.

Contact: Michael Helms 828-262-7461; helmsml@appstate.edu theatreanddance.appstate.edu ARCADIA UNIVERSITY 450 S Easton Rd Glenside, PA 19038 Degrees: BA: Theatre Arts; BFA: Acting, Acting (Musical Theatre); Minor: Theatre Arts Profile: The Theatre Arts programs go beyond a traditional conservatory-style approach – immersing you in all aspects of theatrical creation. The university’s intimate size provides close interaction with faculty in a liberal arts setting. Proximity to Philadelphia’s dynamic theatre community connects students with industry professionals who are regular instructors and guest artists.

Contact: Mark Wade 215-572-2146; wadem@arcadia.edu www.arcadia.edu/arcadiatheater

& Training Program Directory ATLANTIC ACTING SCHOOL 76 Ninth Ave, Suite 537 New York, NY 10011 Degrees: Cer tificate: Professional Conservatory, Evening Conservatory, Global Virtual Conservatory, Spring Comprehensive, Summer Intensive, Summer Teen Ensemble; BFA through NYU Tisch School of the Arts Profile: Founded as an ensemble of students in 1985, Atlantic has grown into an acting school and 22-time Tony Award-winning offBroadway theatre company. Atlantic has the only conservatory program in the world offering in-depth training in Practical Aesthetics, The Atlantic Technique, with a disciplined approach to script analysis and working truthfully moment-tomoment. The mission of the school is to ensure that graduates master essential analytical and physical disciplines of acting and are empowered for success.

Contact: 212-691-5919 admissions@atlantictheater.org www.atlanticactingschool.org

available. Check out theatredance.apsu.edu for audition info.

Contact: Marcus Hayes hayesma@apsu.edu theatredance.apsu.edu

AUBURN UNIVERSITY Telfair Peet Theatre 350 W Samford Ave Auburn, AL 36849 Degrees: BA: Theatre; BFA: Acting, Music Theatre, Design/Technology, Management Profile: Auburn Theatre offers rigorous practical training in a liberal arts context. A high percentage of graduates proceed to industry employment and graduate theatre training programs.

Contact: Chase Bringardner 334-844-4748; cab0023@auburn.edu cla.auburn.edu/theatre

BALL STATE UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre and Dance 2000 W University Ave, AC 306 Muncie, IN 47306 Degrees: BA or BS: Dance, Design & Technology, Directing, Stage Management, Theatre Education, Theatrical Creation (Playwriting, Dramaturgy, Theatre Management, Theatre History/Criticism); BFA: Acting, Dance, Design & Technology, Musical Theatre; Minor: Theatre, Technical Theatre, New Works Profile: The Department of Theatre and Dance at Ball State University fosters compassionate, inclusive and empathetic human beings. We challenge our students to become exceptional artists through the exploration of the dynamic relationship between ar t and the human experience.

Contact: Andrea Sadler 765-285-8740; amsadler@bsu.edu www.bsu.edu/theatredance

AUBURN UNIVERSITY MONTGOMERY Communication & Theatre PO Box 244023 Room 351 Liberal Arts Montgomery, AL 36124 Degrees: BA: Communication (Theatre, Broadcast Journalism) Profile: Theatre AUM is a small, generalist theatre program with four full-time faculty dedicated to training students who are interested in learning all aspects of theatre.

Contact: Katie Pearson 334-244-3632; kpearso2@aum.edu www.cas.aum.edu/departments/communicationand-theatre AUSTIN PEAY STATE UNIVERSITY 601 College St Clarksville, TN 37044 Degrees: BA: Theatre and Dance (Acting, Dance, Design); BFA: Theatre and Dance (Acting, Dance, Design, Musical Theatre) Profile: We prepare the student to become a working professional in the entertainment industry by being well-versed in many disciplines and skills. Our season consists of six performances with no restrictions on freshmen auditioning.

Scholarships and out-of-state tuition waivers

AVERETT UNIVERSITY 420 W Main St Danville, VA 24541 Degrees: BA: Theatre, English/Theatre with or without Teacher Licensure; BS: Theatre with Teacher Licensure; Minor: Musical Theatre, Theatre; BFA: Acting, Directing, Musical Theatre, Technical Theatre Profile: Averett has a small, energetic and extremely active theatre department producing five mainstage productions yearly, where students are offered a variety of opportunities to learn their craft. Students are guided by a dedicated professional faculty.

Contact: Giuseppe Ritorto 434-791-5712; gritorto@averett.edu www.averett.edu

BELHAVEN UNIVERSITY 1500 Peachtree St Jackson, MS 39202 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Theatre, Performance, Production) Profile: The mission of the Belhaven University Theatre Department is to prepare students academically, technically, artistically and spiritually to serve their Community, their Collaborators, and their Creator in the world of theatre and related vocations. Contact: Elissa Sartwell 601-974-6478; theatre@belhaven.edu www.belhaven.edu/theatre

BELMONT UNIVERSITY 1900 Belmont Blvd Nashville, TN 37212 D e g r e e s : B A : T h e a t r e ; B FA : T h e a t r e (Performance, Directing, Production Design, Theatre Education with Licensure), Musical Theatre; Minor: Theatre, Dance Profile: Belmont is a Christian university in the heart of Nashville, TN, with professional theatre and musical theatre training programs, state-ofthe-art theatre facilities and a student-centered faculty. We offer short-term study abroad programs in each area of concentration as well as semester-long opportunities in New York and L.A. Contact: Brent Maddox 615-460-8219; brent.maddox@belmont.edu www.belmont.edu BEREA COLLEGE 101 Chestnut St, CPO 2148 Berea, KY 40404 Degrees: BA: Theatre; Minor: Theatre Profile: The theatre major provides an introduction to all aspects of theatre: the literature, theatre history, acting, directing, design, production and management. The program supports a full season of plays each academic year, as well as individual student projects and original works.

Contact: Deborah Martin 859-985-3419; Deborah_Martin@berea.edu www.berea.edu/thr

Baylor Theatre BA Theatre Arts BFA Theatre Performance optional concentration in musical theatre BFA Theatre Design & Technology The MA in Theatre Studies MFA in Directing

In-state auditions listed at baylor.edu/theatre Theatre Department acceptance by audition/interview only Baylor University applic application deadline February 1, 2021

Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre 2020 production pnoto of Yerma

D-3

2021 SETC College, University BOSSIER PARISH COMMUNITY COLLEGE 6220 E Texas St Bossier City, LA 71111 Degrees: AA: Performing Arts (Theatre, Musical Theatre, Music, Music Production & Technology) Profile: BPCC provides its performing arts students with education, training and opportunity for personal growth and development in all aspects of production – in front of, as well as behind, the curtain.

Contact: Paul Belcher 318-678-6591 pbelcher@bpcc.edu www.bpcc.edu/performingarts BOSTON UNIVERSITY School of Theatre 855 Commonwealth Ave Boston, MA 02215 D e g r e e s : B FA : A c t i n g , T h e a t r e A r t s (Performance), Costume Design, Costume Production, Lighting Design, Scene Design, Sound Design, Stage Management, Technical Production, Theatre Arts (Design & Production); MFA: Costume Design, Costume Production, Directing, Lighting Design, Production Management, Scene Design, Sound Design, Technical Production; Minor: Dance, Theatre, Musical Theatre Course Sequence; Artisan Certificate: Scene Painting

Profile: Nationally recognized training program with opportunities for immersion in theatre within a renowned research university in Boston.

Discover your artistic voice and enjoy guaranteed casting in our robust season. Or collaborate with faculty and industry professionals to find your process as an artist within the studios and workshops of our new Joan and Edgar Booth Theatre.

Contact: McCaela Donovan theatre@bu.edu www.bu.edu/cfa/theatre BREVARD COLLEGE 1 Brevard College Dr Brevard, NC 28712 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Design/ Tech, Teacher Licensure) Profile: Brevard College is located in the mountains of Western North Carolina and offers rigorous training with nationally recognized artists. The BA in Theatre encourages creative problem-solving, collaboration, resiliency and vibrant artists who value passion and integrity.

We offer students guided independent growth to craft meaningful careers.

Contact: Brandon Smith 828-883-8292; smithbm@brevard.edu www.brevard.edu/theatre CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA 250 University Dr California, PA 15419 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Design/Entertainment Technology, Musical Theatre) Profile: Our program allows one-on-one study to help you find what makes your heart sing. You are not just a number; you are family. First-year students participate in a show all their own during their first semester. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre. An Estill Voice Educational Affiliate.

Contact: Michele A. Pagen 724-938-5578; pagen@calu.edu www.calu.edu CAMPBELLSVILLE UNIVERSITY 1 University Dr #872 Campbellsville, KY 42718 Degrees: BA or BS: Theatre (Performance, Technical Theatre); Minor: Dance Profile: A unique partnership with a local production company offers six opportunities a semester where students can gain performance or design experience. CU offers hands-on engagement with your craft and a personalized approach from faculty. CU offers a diverse campus and provides opportunities to visit and study around the world.

Contact: Starr Garrett 270-789-5266; sgarrett@campbellsville.edu www.campbellsville.edu/theater

D-4

CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY School of Drama 5000 Forbes Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Degrees: BFA: Acting, Musical Theatre, Design (Scenery, Lighting, Costume, Sound, Media), Production Technology and Management (Technical Direction, Stage and Production Management, Production Technology), Directing, Dramaturgy; MFA: Design (Scenery, Lighting, Costume, Sound, Media), Production Technology and Management (Technical Direction, Stage and Production Management), Directing, Dramatic Writing Profile: The School of Drama presents an intense conservatory training ground with an emphasis on individual attention leading to a career in professional theatre. A faculty of professional designers and technicians provides a hands-on education. By graduation, students are well-placed to move directly into the industry in all areas.

Contact: Mica Harrison Loosemore Drama-relations@andrew.cmu.edu www.drama.cmu.edu CATAWBA COLLEGE 2300 W Innes St Salisbury, NC 28144 Degrees: BA: Theatre Arts; BS: Theatre Arts Management; BFA: Musical Theatre, Performance (Acting, Directing), Technical Theatre (Lighting Design, Set Design, Costume Design, Technical Theatre) Profile: Catawba College is consistently ranked in the top 20 for “Best College Theater” according to The Princeton Review. We boast strong experiential learning and high graduate marketability. Scholarships are available.

Contact: Savannah Deal 704-637-4440; Svdeal20@catawba.edu www.catawba.edu/academic/theatrearts CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF AMERICA Drama Department 620 Michigan Ave NE Washington, DC 20064 Degrees: BA: Drama (Perfor ming Ar ts Management, Digital Art and Design, Video Production and Digital Storytelling); BA/MA: Accelerated degree in Drama and Theatre Education; MA: Theatre History and Criticism, Theatre Education (MATE); MFA: Acting, Directing, Playwriting Profile: CUA’s BA offers a liberal arts education with opportunities for performance and technical work. The MFA provides professional theatre training. The MA provides advanced theatre studies. The MATE provides training for theatre in education. Students work with professional companies as they transition into the professional world. Significant scholarships are available for MFA. Contact: Patrick Tuite 202-319-5358; cua-drama@cua.edu drama.cua.edu

& Training Program Directory CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY 251 N Main St Cedarville, OH 45314 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Design); Minor: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design, Arts Administration Profile: Cedarville University’s distinctly Christian BA in Theatre prepares you for a variety of fulfilling careers in acting, directing, designing, stage management, dramaturgy, arts administration, and more. With our 100% placement rate post-graduation, you’ll be equipped to use your God-given abilities to become an excellent, relevant and God-honoring theatre artist.

Contact: Stacey Stratton 937-766-3766; staceystratton@cedarville.edu www.cedarville.edu/academic-programs/theatre CENTENARY UNIVERSITY Department of Fine Arts 400 Jefferson St Hackettstown, NJ 07840 Contact: Robert Miller 908-852-1400; millerr@centenaryuniversity.edu www.centenaryuniversity.edu/academics/ undergraduate-studies/theatre-arts CENTRE COLLEGE 600 W Walnut St Danville, KY 40422 Degrees: BA: Dramatic Arts Profile: The Centre College Theatre Program seeks to provide a balanced and comprehensive theatre experience for all students. We offer classes for both majors and non-majors that provide a thorough foundation in theatrical history, theory, and literature as well as training in acting, directing, design, and technical theatre.

Thus, students are prepared for graduate education and for employment in and beyond the theatre as teachers, artists, technicians, managers, or, indeed, any number of fields that value high-level communication skills.

Contact: Matthew Hallock; Asia Peach 859-238-5432; matthew.hallock@centre.edu 859-238-5424; asia.peach@centre.edu www.centre.edu/majors-minors/dramatic-arts CHRISTOPHER NEWPORT UNIVERSITY 1 Avenue of the Arts Newport News, VA 23606 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Acting, Arts Administration, Design/Technical Theatre, Directing/ Dramatic Literature, Music Theatre/Dance, Theatre Studies); Minor: Dance P ro f i l e : Dedicated to undergraduate, professional-level training, CNU offers a dynamic, challenging program of theatre study. Located in the Ferguson Center for the Arts, Theater CNU enjoys state-of-the-art facilities. All instructors are professionals in their fields. Small class sizes ensure one-on-one attention. Scholarships available for all grade levels, including incoming freshmen.

Contact: Laura Grace Godwin 757-594-9171; Laura.godwin@cnu.edu www.theater.cnu.edu

CCM COLLEGE-CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC Theatre Arts, Production, and Arts Administration (TAPAA) PO Box 210003 Cincinnati, OH 45221-0003 Degrees: BFA: Performance (Acting, Musical Theatre), Dance (Ballet), Design/Technology (Costume Design & Technology, Lighting Design & Technology, Sound Design, Stage Design, Props, Scenic Art, Stage Management, Technical Direction); MA or MA/MBA: Arts Administration; MFA: Design (Costume Design & Technology, Lighting Design & Technology, Sound Design, Stage Design, Stage Properties, Stage Management, Wig and Makeup Design); Artist Diploma: Opera (Singers, Coaches, Stage Direction) Profile: CCM students are offered a wide variety of opportunities in classes, major productions, studio productions, master classes, summer projects and professional internships. This wealth of exposure is provided not only through shared resources among all the programs within the CCM community, but also through strong connections to CCM alumni and entertainment professionals.

Contact: Deborah Neiheisel-DeZarn 513-556-583; dezarndl@ucmail.uc.edu Ccm.uc.edu CIRCLE IN THE SQUARE THEATRE SCHOOL 1633 Broadway New York, NY 10019 Degrees: Two-Year Certificate: Theatre, Musical Theatre; 2+2 BFA with Eckerd College, St. Petersburg, FL: Theatre, Musical Theatre Profile: Circle in the Square is the world’s only school affiliated with a Broadway theatre. Former students, including Idina Menzel, Kevin Bacon and Lady Gaga, have appeared in countless Broadway shows, on television and in film. Taught by a faculty of NY professionals, graduates enjoy a curriculum that gives them the skills needed to be triple threats and true theatre artists.

Contact: Sara Louise Lazarus 212-307-0388; Admissions@circlesquare.org www.circlesquare.org; www.eckerd.edu CLAFLIN UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre 400 Magnolia Ave Orangeburg, SC 29118 Contact: Annette Dees Grievous 803-535-5997; agrevious@claflin.edu www.claflin.edu

CLEMSON UNIVERSITY Department of Performing Arts 221 Brooks Center Clemson University Clemson, SC 29634-0525 Degrees: BA: Production Studies in Performing Arts (Theatre, Music, Audio Technology) Profile: We are a unique interdisciplinary program in which students focus on a specific performing art, while learning skills that integrate all of the arts. Department productions are staged in our 100-seat black box and 968-seat roadhouse. Affiliated with SETC, USITT, KCACTF and London’s Rose Bruford College.

Contact: Tony Penna 864-656-6961; tpenna@clemson.edu www.clemson.edu/PerfArts COKER COLLEGE McCall School of Visual and Performing Arts 300 E College Ave Hartsville, SC 29550 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Writing, Musical Theatre, Performance, Technical Theatre), Music (Piano, Voice, Music Education), Dance (Dance Education, General); BFA: Dance (Performance, Choreography); Minors: Dance, Music, Theatre Profile: A major in the arts isn’t a choice – it’s a calling. If you want to succeed, it also takes dedication, practice and training. Coker’s McCall School of Visual and Performing Arts is designed to help you put all these pieces together, so you can turn your passion into a career!

Contact: Angela Gallo; Joshua Webb 843-383-8381; agallo@coker.edu 843-383-8378; jwebb@coker.edu www.coker.edu/academics/academic-programs/ department-of-dance-music-theatre/theatre COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON Department of Theatre and Dance 66 George St Charleston, SC 29424 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Costume Design & Technology, Scenic/Lighting Design & Technology, Theatre for Youth, Theatre Studies, General Theatre), Dance (General Dance Studies, Performance); MAT: Performing Arts – Theatre Profile: CofC provides comprehensive instruction in theatre and dance in a liberal arts setting, as well as focused training in the practice of theatre and dance across a range of skill sets. The melding of production experience and academics helps students gain the tools necessary for a successful life both in and out of the professional arts.

Contact: Janine McCabe 843-953-6306; mccabej@cofc.edu theatre.cofc.edu

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2021 SETC College, University CONVERSE COLLEGE Department of Theatre & Dance 580 E Main St Spartanburg, SC 29302 Degrees: BA: Theatre, Musical Theatre; Minor: Theatre, Dance, Arts Management Profile: We inspire, entertain and challenge audiences with live performances that enhance our capacity for empathy and illuminate our common humanity. Our primary focus in the classroom, in rehearsal and in live performance is to give student artists the opportunities and support to succeed.

Contact: Melissa Owens 864-596-9162; melissa.owens@converse.edu www.converse.edu/academics/theatre-dance DAVIDSON COLLEGE Department of Theatre Box 4171 Davidson, NC 28035 Degrees: BA: Theatre Profile: The Davidson College Theatre Department is committed to fostering students’ intellectual and artistic growth. As a theatre student, you will collaborate and cultivate your skills with a faculty devoted to investigating how performance engages with and illuminates our multicultural world. Whether your passion is studying the intersection of theatre and community or acting or designing for the stage, you can find your place in theatre at Davidson.

Contact: Karli Henderson 704-894-2912; kahenderson@davidson.edu www.davidson.edu/theatre DAVIS & ELKINS COLLEGE 100 Campus Dr Elkins, WV 26241 Contact: Bridget Esterhuizen 304-637-1412; esterhuizenb@dewv.edu www.dewv.edu/theatre-arts-and-theatreeducation DICKINSON COLLEGE Department of Theatre and Dance Box 1773 Carlisle, PA 17013 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Acting/Directing, Design/Technology, Dramatic Literature); BA: Dance; Certificate: Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet (CPYB) Profile: Dickinson offers a comprehensive liberal arts education in theatre and/or dance. In addition to many performance and production opportunities, students are encouraged to explore connections between theatre and other fields of interest. Dickinson’s program offers students both internship and study abroad opportunities.

Contact: Sherry Harper-McCombs 717-245-1239; theatre&dance@dickinson.edu www.dickinson.edu/academics/programs/ theatre-and-dance

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EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY School of Theatre and Dance Messick Theatre Arts Center Greenville, NC 27858-4353 Degrees: BA: Theatre Arts; BFA: Theatre Arts (Professional Actor Training, Musical Theatre, Stage Management, Design and Production, Theatre for Youth), Theatre Arts Education Profile: Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre, our programs emphasize real-world practical preparation. Our program and practice are guided by our core principles of Excellence, Professionalism, Diversity, Artistic Risk and Community. Our graduates are prepared to excel in the professional theatre, film and entertainment world at any level.

Contact: 252-328-6390; theatre@ecu.edu www.ecu.edu/theatredance EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre and Dance PO Box 70626 Johnson City, TN 37614 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Acting, Design/ Production, Musical Theatre, General Theatre) Profile: We provide a foundation in theatre and dance with a focus on individualized mentoring.

Our professionally trained faculty and staff offer current, up-to-date instruction in performance, design and technology, aerial dance and musical theatre. Martin Center for the Arts is our new state-of-the-art performance facility opening 2020-21. NAST-accredited.

Contact: Karen Brewster 423-439-5827; brewster@etsu.edu www.etsu.edu/theatre EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY Communication, Media & Theatre Arts 124 Quirk Bldg Ypsilanti, MI 48197 Contact: Lee Stille 734-487-6846; lstille@emich.edu www.emich.edu/cmta ELON UNIVERSITY Department of Performing Arts 2800 Campus Box Elon, NC 27244 Degrees: BA: Theatrical Design and Production, Drama and Theatre Studies, Arts Administration; BS: Dance Science; BFA: Acting, Dance Performance and Choreography, Music Theatre Profile: Elon offers conservatory-style training and professional-quality productions at a supportive liberal arts institution. Our alumni are extremely successful because we teach “the business” as well as the art.

Contact: Kimberly Rippy 336-278-5600; krippy@elon.edu www.elon.edu/perarts

EMERSON COLLEGE Department of Performing Arts 120 Boylston St Boston, MA 02116 Degrees: BFA: Acting, Musical Theatre, Stage and Production Management, Theory and Performance, Theatre Design/Technology, Theatre Education and Performance, Theatre Education, Theatre; MA/MFA: Theatre Education, Applied Theatre Profile: Emerson’s mission is to train future leaders in arts, culture, and communication. The Department of Performing Arts’ undergraduate and graduate programs encompass a core liberal arts curriculum, promote civic engagement, and demand that students create with clarity, integrity, and conviction.

Contact: Admissions 617-824-8600; Admission@emerson.edu 617-824-8610; gradadmission@emerson.edu www.emerson.edu EMORY & HENRY COLLEGE PO Box 947 Emory, VA 24327 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Theatre or Dance); BFA: Musical Theatre, Theatre (Performance, Production and Design, Stage Management and Directing); Minor: Theatre, Dance Contact: Annalee Tull Lanier atull@ehc.edu www.emerson.edu/programs/theatreperformance-bfa EUREKA COLLEGE 300 E College Ave Eureka, IL 61530 Degrees: BA: Theatre and Drama Arts; Minor: Theatre Profile: We offer the theatre major in three concentrations: Performance, Production, and History/Theory. We also offer a theatre minor.

Each major and minor is tailored to the individual student to strengthen their skills.

Contact: Holly Rocke 309-467-6580; hrocke@eureka.edu www.eureka.edu/academics/fine-performingarts/theatre-arts-drama/ FAIRLEIGH DICKINSON UNIVERSITY Visual & Performing Arts Department 285 Madison Ave, M-DB0-01 Madison, NJ 07940 Contact: Stephen Hollis 973-443-8467; hollis@fdu.edu www.fdu.edu/academics/colleges-schools/ becton/arts/theater/ FLAGLER COLLEGE Theatre Arts 74 King St St. Augustine, FL 32084 Contact: Paul Denayer 904-819-6606; PDenayer@flagler.edu www.flagler.edu/academics/depar tments-programs/theatre-arts

& Training Program Directory FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY 11200 SW 8th St, WPAC 131 Miami, FL 33199 Degrees: BA; BFA Profile: We offer both BA and BFA degrees in theatre, and students may focus on acting, costume design, set and lighting design, or technical theatre. We have a broad curriculum taught by experienced faculty who continue to work professionally in acting, directing, design and playwriting.

Contact: Lesley-Ann Timlick 305-348-2895; timlickl@fiu.edu carta.fiu.edu/theatre FLORIDA SCHOOL OF THE ARTS St. Johns River State College 5001 St. Johns Ave Palatka, FL 32177 Degrees: AS or AS+AA: Acting, Musical Theatre, Dance, Costume Design, Scenic and Lighting Design, Stage Management, New Media Design, Photography, Studio Arts, Animation Profile: “FLO” is a two-year, state-supported professional arts school. We offer intense, creative instruction in the classroom, combined with many practical opportunities available during our rigorous production schedule of plays, musicals, dance events and exhibitions.

Admission is by audition or portfolio review only.

Contact: Kitty Clarke 386-312-4304; kittyclarke@sjrstate.edu www.floarts.org FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr Lakeland, FL 33801 Degrees: BA: Theatre Arts, Dance; BFA: Performance, Musical Theatre, Technical Theatre, Dance Profile: Ranked in the top 20 college theatre programs by The Princeton Review, FSC is a four-year, private liberal arts college that emphasizes one-on-one instruction, hands-on experience and a high degree of professionalism.

A theatre major has opportunities to perform major roles freshman year; design students will see their work produced sophomore year.

Contact: Paul Bawek 860-680-4184; pbawek@flsouthern.edu www.flsouthern.edu FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY School of Theatre, 239 Fine Arts Bldg Tallahassee, FL 32306 Degrees: BA: Theatre; BFA: Acting, Music Theatre; MFA: Acting, Costume Design, Directing, Technical Production, Theatre Management; MS: Theatre Education; MA: Theatre Studies; PhD: Theatre Studies Profile: The School of Theatre at FSU offers a comprehensive education in theatre. In addition to its academic offerings, the school presents a six-show season, including two musicals, on its three stages annually. Also, an active student theatre association presents a number of shows annually.

Contact: Michele Diamonti 850-644-7234; mdiamonti@admin.fsu.edu www.theatre.fsu.edu FRANCIS MARION UNIVERSITY Department of Fine Arts, Theatre Program PO Box 100547 Florence, SC 29502 Degrees: BA Profile: We are a small theatre program “big” on giving students experience; students are given the opportunity to participate in all facets of production. Francis Marion University is a fully accredited institution with the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST).

Contact: Glen Gourley 843-661-1538; agourley@fmarion.edu www.fmarion.edu/finearts/theatrearts FURMAN UNIVERSITY 3300 Poinsett Hwy Greenville, SC 29613 Degrees: BA: Theatre Arts Profile: Furman is a private liberal arts institution founded in 1826 and is nationally acclaimed for the Furman Advantage four-year pathway for student success. The Theatre Arts Department offers dynamic coursework with the primary goal of transforming theatre students into theatre artists. Rated #12 in The Princeton Review for Best College Theater.

Contact: Jay Oney; Maegan Azar 864-294-2128; jay.oney@furman.edu 864-294-2127; maegan.azar@furman.edu www.furman.edu/theatrearts GAINESVILLE THEATRE ALLIANCE PO Box 1358 Gainesville, GA 30503 Degrees: BA: Theatre; BFA: Acting, Musical Theatre, Theatre Design & Technology Profile: Gainesville Theatre Alliance is a oneof-a-kind, nationally recognized collaboration between the University of Nor th Georgia and Brenau University. Utilizing hands-on, individualized training, GTA boasts a production program rivaling the largest theatre schools in the country. GTA’s state-of-the-art facilities include five theatres, multiple shops, design labs, and rehearsal and dance studios.

Contact: Jayme McGhan (UNG) Tracey Brent-Chessum (Brenau) 678-717-3609; jayme.mcghan@ung.edu 770-534-6264; tbrent-chessum@brenau.edu www.gainesvilletheatrealliance.org GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY 4400 University Dr, MS 3E6 Fairfax, VA 22030 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Design/ Technical, Theatre Studies); BFA: Stage and Screen Studies (Performance, Musical Theatre, Design/Technical); MA: Accelerated MA in Arts Management; Certificate: Graduate Certificate in Teaching Theatre Arts PK-12 Profile: Located near the vibrant DC arts community, we encourage our students to

engage their artistic and academic skills in regional and global communities. Theatre at Mason blends excellence and rigor using stateof-the-art resources to provide a professional approach in a liberal arts environment.

Contact: Kevin Murray 703-993-1120; theater@gmu.edu theater.gmu.edu GEORGIA COLLEGE & STATE UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre, CBX 119 Milledgeville, GA 31061 Degrees: BA: Theatre; Minor: Theatre, Dance; Certificate: Film Production Profile: Georgia College is Georgia’s designated Public Liberal Arts University. The Department of Theatre produces a variety of theatrical works, hosts acclaimed guest artists and offers a number of performance, design and directing opportunities for students. The Department of Theatre is located in the renovated historic Campus Theatre in downtown Milledgeville.

Contact: Karen Berman 478-445-1980; karen.berman@gcsu.edu www.gcsu.edu/theatre GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY 2434 Southern Dr Sanford Hall/Box 8091 Statesboro, GA 30460 Degrees: BA: Theatre; Minor: Theatre Profile: The Theatre Program at Georgia Southern University produces a diverse array of award-winning, culturally important theatre, including African American theatre. An institutional member of NAST, our program produces students who excel in artistic achievement. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to perform, design and direct in four state-of-the-art performance facilities on two campuses while developing a strong portfolio based in realized productions.

Contact: Kelly Berry (Statesboro campus); John Wright (Armstrong Savannah campus) 912-478-0106; ksberry@georgiasouthern.edu 912-344-2705; johnwright@georgiasouthern.edu cah.georgiasouthern.edu/commarts/majors/ theatre GREENSBORO COLLEGE 815 W Market St Greensboro, NC 27401 Degrees: BA or BS: Theatre (Acting, Costuming, Design/Technical, Musical Theatre, Stage Directing/Management, Teacher Certification) Profile: We provide many undergraduate-only production opportunities each year in a small college environment downtown in a large city in North Carolina, including hosting the state theatre festival and SETC’s Summer and Outdoor Theatre Auditions on campus, and internship opportunities available at the local Equity theatre.

Contact: Perry Morgan 336-272-7102 x5744 perry.morgan@greensboro.edu theatre.greensboro.edu

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2021 SETC College, University GUILFORD TECHNICAL COMMUNITY COLLEGE PO Box 309 Jamestown, NC 27282 Degrees: AFA: Theatre Profile: Your stage door opens here! Opportunity for hands-on experience both onstage and backstage. Small program focusing on individual attention with emphasis on successful college transfer and preparation for work in the industry.

Contact: Julya Mirro 336-334-4822 x50299; jmmirro@gtcc.edu www.gtcc.edu HAMPTON UNIVERSITY Department of Music and Performing Arts Armstrong Hall Hampton University Hampton, VA 23668 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Technical Theatre) Profile: The program is housed in the Department of Music and Performing Arts. Students take courses and emphasize in either performance or technical theatre. Students gain practical theatre experience by participating in theatre practicums in 4-5 mainstage annual productions. Additional experience can be gained in student-run productions, tours and Hampton Players activities.

Majors are mentored by experienced professors and nationally recognized guest artists.

Contact: Karen Turner Ward 757-728-6187; karen.ward@hamptonu.edu www.hamptonu.edu HEIDELBERG UNIVERSITY School of Music and Theatre 310 E Market St Tiffin, OH 44883 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Acting, Musical Theatre, Production) Profile: Learn the art and business of theatre through four years of intense hands-on experiences. We believe our students succeed because they are welcomed into our artistic community as soon as they arrive. Our students become well-rounded theatre ar tists who understand and know how to navigate the arts world.

Contact: Stephen Svoboda 419-448-2073; ssvoboda@heidelberg.edu www.heidelberg.edu HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY One University Pkwy High Point, NC 27268 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, DesignTechnical, Collaborative Theatre), Dance; Minor: Theatre, Dance, Musical Theatre Profile: Our faculty artist-mentors walk the walk alongside students and help them to hone their craft and find their artistic voice. We feature a busy production schedule and a company philosophy where students get ample hands-on learning opportunities in every aspect of theatre and dance production, making them highly competitive upon graduation.

Contact: Doug Brown 336-841-4525; dbrown@highpoint.edu www.highpoint.edu/theatre HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY Department of Drama and Dance Hempstead, NY 11549-1000 Degrees: BA: Drama; BFA: Performance or Production (Costume Design, Set Design, Lighting Design, Sound Design, Directing, Technical Direction, Stage Management, Dramaturgy); Minor: Drama, Musical Theatre (with BA in Drama or BFA in Performance) Profile: Exclusively undergraduate program, half-hour from NYC. Six mainstage productions a year, including one musical and annual Shakespeare Festival, now in its 68th year.

Student Rep at the end of every semester highlighting student directing and playwriting.

Production students have the opportunity to design, stage manage or direct multiple projects.

Contact: Royston Coppenger 516-463-5444 Royston.P.Coppenger@hofstra.edu www.hofstra.edu

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HOLLINS UNIVERSITY 7916 Williamson Rd, Box 9602 Roanoke, VA 24020 Degrees: BA: Theatre; Minor: Theatre; MFA: Playwriting Profile: The Hollins Theatre Institute provides classroom instruction and experiential learning in acting, directing, playwriting, design, stage management, musical theatre and technical production for undergraduate women.

Playwright’s Lab is a unique high-intensity/lowresidency MFA co-educational graduate program (six-week sessions over four to five summers), also offering professional certificates in directing and performance.

Contact: Anna Goodwin 540-362-6313; agoodwin@hollins.edu www.hollins.edu/academics/theatre www.hollins.edu/grad/playwriting HOWARD UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre Arts 2455 Sixth St NW, Suite 1044 Washington, DC 20059 Degrees: BFA: Musical Theatre, Acting, Dance, Theatre Administration, Theatre Technology Profile: The Department of Theatre Arts is committed to the training of knowledgeable theatre and dance artists, theorists, historians and teachers in the theatre and dance arts.

The department is dedicated to the principle of developing the highest quality of theatre and dance arts, and to the serious investigation and perpetuation of the experiences and aesthetics of Black theatre and dance.

Contact: Ofosuwa Abiola 202-806-7050; ofosuwa.abiola@howard.edu Theatrearts.howard.edu HUNTINGTON UNIVERSITY 2303 College Ave Huntington, IN 46750 Degrees: BA: Theatre Performance, Theatre Technology, Theatre, Theatre (NYC Semester); Minor: Theatre, Performance Technology Profile: Huntington University is a comprehensive Christian university of the liberal arts offering programs in more than 70 academic concentrations, including theatre, music and film. HU is located on a contemporary, lakeside campus in northeast Indiana. HU is consistently ranked among the best universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report, Forbes.com and The Princeton Review.

Contact: Ryan Long 260-359-4257; rlong@huntington.edu Huntington.edu HUSSIAN COLLEGE LOS ANGELES 1201 W 5th St, Suite F-10 Los Angeles, CA 90017 Degrees: BFA: Acting, Film and Digital Content, Commercial Dance, Contemporary Musical Theatre and Film Profile: Hussian College (formerly Studio School) pr ides itself on academic and professional excellence, with an unrelenting

& Training Program Directory commitment to prepare students for service in their communities and career. Not only is the college on a working studio lot, surrounded by professional productions, but the faculty and program chairs are also experienced working professionals. It’s not uncommon to see your teacher in class one day and on a television show the next.

Contact: Addy Green 800-762-1993; addy.green@hussiancollege.edu www.studioschool.org ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY School of Theatre and Dance Campus Box 5700 Normal, IL 61790 Degrees: BA or BS: Acting, Dance Education, Dance Performance, Design/Production, Theatre Education, Theatre Studies (Cinema Studies, Creative Drama, Directing, Dramaturgy/History, Integrated Performance, Theatre Management); MA or MS: Theatre History, Criticism; MFA: Acting, Design/Production, Directing Profile: The School of Theatre and Dance has an over 40-year legacy with many distinguished alumni, including the founders of Steppenwolf Theatre Company. Extensive production opportunities are available in three diverse performance venues and include studentproduced work. Student internships are available for the nationally recognized Illinois Shakespeare Festival.

Contact: Michelle Woody 309-438-8783; mwoody@ilstu.edu www.finearts.IllinoisState.edu/theatre INDIANA UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre, Drama and Contemporary Dance 275 N Jordan Ave Suite A300U Bloomington, IN 47405 Degrees: BA: Theatre; BFA: Musical Theatre, Contemporary Dance; MFA: Acting, Directing, Costume Design, Lighting Design, Scenic Design, Theatre Technology, Costume Technology, Playwriting Profile: In addition to an outstanding faculty, the Department of Theatre, Drama and Contemporary Dance at Indiana University has over 25 guest artists and scholars on campus each year. The department is housed in state-of-the-art facilities and also operates the Indiana University Summer Theatre, a professional summer theatre.

Contact: Linda Pisano 812-855-0809; lpisano@indiana.edu theatre.indiana.edu INDIANA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA Department of Theatre, Dance and Performance 401 S 11th St Indiana, PA 15705-1065 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Design/ Tech/Management, Theory/Criticism), Musical Theatre, Dance Arts; Minor: Theatre and Dance; Certificate: Applied Theatre

Profile: Offering breadth and depth of study with individual attention and emphasis on ensemble creation, IUP’s programs balance classroom learning with active participation in Theater-bythe-Grove/IUP Dance Theater. Freshmen eligible to audition for mainstage productions. Simulation and applied theatre techniques for social change is a featured specialty. Approximately 20 studio productions each year provide opportunities for student playwriting and directing. Each student creates a Senior Thesis Project.

Contact: Brian Jones 724-357-2965; brjones@iup.edu www.iup.edu/theater INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE OF MUSICAL THEATRE 68 Wallis Rd London E9 5LH United Kingdom Degrees: BA: Professional Practice, Arts and Creative Industries (Musical Theatre) through Middlesex University Profile: The ICTM is a conservatory-style musical theatre performing arts college with campuses in London, New York City, Rome and Belfast. Using current industry professionals, we train the performers of tomorrow with the performers of today. We accept only those interested in a performance career. One-year, two-year, and three-month intensive programs with degree option.

Contact: John Edwards +44 (0)207 253 3118 info@theicmt.com theicmt.com

of opportunities for students to explore their interests and grow as artists. Our growing film program also provides opportunities to expand to all areas of performance, technical and design work.

Contact: Randal Blades 256-782-5447; rblades@jsu.edu www.jsu.edu/drama/index.html JACKSONVILLE UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre 2800 University Blvd, N P111 Jacksonville, FL 32211 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Technology); BFA: Theatre (Performance, Technology); Minor: Theatre. Option to double major in another concentration (e.g., Film, Dance) Profile: The Theatre Program is housed in the Linda Berry Stein College of Fine Arts, which includes a SACS-accredited, rigorous BFA preprofessional degree. Our students enjoy small class sizes, one-on-one instruction, hands-on experience, performance opportunities in their freshman year, individual mentoring, and a high degree of professionalism. Theatre talent scholarships available.

Contact: Deborah Jordan; Kyrstin Creswell 904-256-7349; djordan@ju.edu 904-256-7002; kcreswe@ju.edu www.ju.edu/cfa

JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY Department of Art & Theatre 1400 J.R. Lynch St Box 17126 Jackson, MS 38217 Degrees: BA in Art (Theatre) Profile: The Department of Art & Theatre is committed to providing students with the fundamental knowledge of communication, performance and design through research and practical application. The department fosters a safe, nurturing environment of creativity, collaboration, and experimentation, while providing exceptional instruction in communication, technical design and stage performance. We utilize traditional and non-traditional teaching methods, ultimately leading to educational success and personal/ professional advancement.

Contact: Prince Duren 601-979-3337; Prince.Duren@jsums.edu www.jsums.edu/art

THE SCHOOL OF

JACKSONVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY 700 Pelham Rd. N Jacksonville, AL 36265 Degrees: BA: Drama (Performance, Production); BA: Film Profile: Our accredited program is rooted in the liberal arts, yet provides a wide range

With a student to faculty ratio of 4:1 and conservatory-style training combined with a nationally-ranked liberal arts education in the heart of the Midwest, IWU cultivates theatre professionals of the highest caliber.

THEATRE ARTS BA in Theatre Arts | BFA in Music Theatre | BFA in Acting | BFA in Design & Technology Minor in Theatre Arts | Minor in Theatre Dance | Minor in Arts Management | Minor in Design & Technology | Minor in Film Studies

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2021 SETC College, University JAMES MADISON UNIVERSITY School of Theatre and Dance 147 Warsaw Ave, MSC 5601 Harrisonburg, VA 22807 Degrees: BA: Dance, Musical Theatre, Theatre (Performance, Design & Technology, Theatre Studies, Theatre Education); Minor: Dance, Theatre Profile: We provide professionally focused training within the context of a broader university liberal arts experience. Numerous studentdirected, student-choreographed, studentdesigned, student-acted and student-danced productions complement mainstage faculty- and guest-directed/choreographed productions in the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts.

Interview-audition or portfolio review is required for entrance to the majors.

Contact: School of Theatre and Dance 540-568-6342; theatredance@jmu.edu www.jmu.edu/theatredance THE JUILLIARD SCHOOL Professional Apprentice Program 60 Lincoln Center Plaza New York, NY 10023 Profile: Juilliard recruits a talented group of people to the Professional Apprentice Program in technical theatre, stage management and arts administration each academic year. The apprentices work closely with professional

technicians, artists and administrators, expanding their skillsets in a safe environment where they may also explore personal interests and career goals.

Contact: Jennifer Linn Wilcox 212-799-5000, x621 apprenticeprogram@juilliard.edu www.juilliard.edu/apprenticeship KD CONSERVATORY COLLEGE OF FILM AND DRAMATIC ARTS 2600 N Stemmons Fwy, Suite 117 Dallas, TX 75207 Degrees: AAA: Acting Performance, Musical Theatre Performance, Motion Picture Production.

Ar ticulation Agreement to New York Film Academy’s BA/BFA track.

Profile: KD gives students a fast-paced path into the world of professional acting, musical theatre or film production. Our faculty of working professionals provides the same passion and desire that we ask of all our students. In 15 months, students prepare for a successful career in the entertainment industry.

Contact: 214-638-0484 www.kdstudio.com KEAN UNIVERSITY Theatre Conservatory 1000 Morris Ave Union, NJ 07083 Degrees: BA: Theatre, Theatre Education (K-12 Theatre Certification, Elementary or Early Childhood Teacher Certification); BFA: Performance, Design & Technology; Minor: Theatre, Dance Profile: Twenty minutes from New York City, Kean University is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre. About 16,000 diverse men and women attend Kean University, 130-plus in theatre. The department produces a faculty/guest-directed theatre series, a studentdirected series, a cabaret series and the Equity Theatre-in-Residence, Premiere Stages.

Contact: Holly Logue 908-737-4420; theatre@kean.edu www.kean.edu/academics/college-liberal-arts/ theatre-conservatory KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY Wilson Bldg Room 249, MD 3103 471 Bartow Ave NW Kennesaw, GA 30144 Degrees: BA: Theatre and Performance Studies (Acting, Design-Tech, Musical Theatre, Performance Studies) Profile: Our program is dedicated to developing emerging theatre artist-scholars with strong foundations in both theory and practical knowledge of a broad range of performance forms, including classical, contemporary, musical theatre, performance art, literary performance, storytelling and original work.

Contact: Troy Parker 470-578-3123; tparker94@kennesaw.edu arts.kennesaw.edu/theatre

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KENT STATE UNIVERSITY School of Theatre and Dance B141 Center for the Performing Arts Kent, OH 44242 Degrees: BA: Theatre Studies (Performance, Production, Management, Theatre and Society), Dance Studies; BFA: Musical Theatre, Dance Performance, Design Production & Technology; MFA: Theatre Design & Technology (Lighting Design, Scenic Design, Costume Design, Theatre Technology), Acting for the Returning Professional Profile: The School of Theatre and Dance offers individual mentorship; low student/teacher ratio; close proximity to professional theatre, opera and dance companies; an established guest director series; and the award-winning summer professional Porthouse Theatre.

Contact: Eric van Baars 330-672-0102; fvanbaar@kent.edu www.kent.edu/theatredance KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY Department of Performing Arts 400 E Main St Frankfort, KY 40601 Contact: Lori Hicks 502-597-6415; lori.hicks@kysu.edu www.kysu.edu/academics/college-hbs/schoolof-hpa/index.php KING UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre 1350 King College Rd Bristol, TN 37620 Degrees: BA: Theatre Profile: King University’s theatre program offers a small program with individualized attention and instruction. Students can pursue independent studies in acting, directing, design, theatre ministry, theatre for young audiences, radio drama, playwriting and more in a hands-on environment.

Contact: Alaska Reece Vance 423-652-4839; crvance@king.edu www.king.edu/academics/programs/theatre.aspx LEE UNIVERSITY 1200 N Ocoee St Cleveland, TN 37312 Degrees: BA: Theatre; BAT: Theatre Education, K-12, Musical Theatre Profile: Our theatre program is designed to educate the whole theatre student for a variety of options in the theatre world. Because we provide students with many opportunities both onstage and offstage, including opportunities for leadership, design and directing, graduates from our program are well-equipped to move on to the next step in their theatre careers.

Contact: Christine Williams 423-614-8227; theatre@leeuniversity.edu www.leeuniversity.edu/theatre

& Training Program Directory LEES-MCRAE COLLEGE 191 Main St Banner Elk, NC 28604 Degrees: BA or BS: Theatre Arts Administration, Theatre Arts; Theatre Arts Education (K-12 Teacher Licensure), Theatre; BFA: Musical Theatre; Minor: Theatre Arts, Technical Theatre Profile: Lees-McRae is a small, private college located in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina. The Department of Theatre Arts embraces and encourages the development of future theatre practitioners through individual attention, in and out of the classroom, through a variety of opportunities, contemporary practices and diverse cultural studies.

Contact: Danielle Curtis 828-898-3478; curtisd@lmc.edu www.lmc.edu LEHIGH UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre 420 E Packer Ave Bethlehem, PA 18015 Contact: Kashi Johnson 610-758-3640; kkj2@lehigh.edu Theatre.cas.lehigh.edu/ LIBERTY UNIVERSITY 1971 University Blvd Lynchburg, VA 24515 Degrees: BA/BS: Theatre Arts; BFA: Acting, Musical Theatre Profile: With eight productions a year, four being musicals, we emphasize storytelling and the development of skills required for employment in the industry. Students have opportunities to gain hands-on experience, hone their craft and jump-start their careers by earning professional credits with the Alluvion Stage Company, the department’s resident professional company.

Contact: Linda Cooper 434-582-2078; lncooper@liberty.edu www.liberty.edu/theatre LIPSCOMB UNIVERSITY 1 University Park Dr Nashville, TN 37204 Degrees: BA: Theatre Education, General Theatre; BFA: Musical Theatre, Acting, Directing, Design/Production Profile: We are a Christian university in the heart of Nashville, TN, committed to leading the future in arts education through rigorous training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and faith-focused community. With 60 students in the department, five main productions each year and several second stage opportunities, we offer strong, individualized training and mentorship.

Contact: Nat McIntyre 615-966-5187; nemcintyre@lipscomb.edu www.lipscomb.edu/theater

THE LIVERPOOL INSTITUTE FOR PERFORMING ARTS (LIPA) Mount St Liverpool L1 9HF United Kingdom Degrees: BA: Acting (Screen and Digital Media), Creative Technologies and Performance (Filmmaking), Theatre and Perfor mance Design, Theatre and Performance Technology, Management of Music, Entertainment and Events, Sound Technology, Music (Songwriting and Performance, Songwriting and Production), Dance, Applied, Theatre and Community Drama; MA: Acting (Company), Costume Making; Foundation Certificate: Acting, Dance, Popular Music, Music Technology Profile: Home to around 950 students from across the world, LIPA is for those who perform and those who make performance possible. Cofounded in 1996 by Sir Paul McCartney, who remains our lead patron, over the last three years, on average, 91% of our graduates were in work, 82% in the performing arts.

Contact: Ryan Duncan +44 (0)151 330 3118; international@lipa.ac.uk www.Lipa.ac.uk LONDON ACADEMY OF MUSIC & DRAMATIC ART (LAMDA) 155 Talgarth Rd London W14 9DA United Kingdom Degrees: BA: Professional Acting; MFA: Professional Acting; Semester Programme: Classical Acting (study abroad); Shakespeare Summer School (8 weeks); LAMDA Short Courses: Shakespeare (4 weeks), Audition Technique (2 weeks), Introduction to Screen Acting (2 weeks), Introduction to Drama School (2 weeks), Acting in English (2 weeks) Profile: A world leader and pioneer, LAMDA provides exceptional vocational training in the dramatic arts. Our outstanding new facilities provide creative spaces where students can take the risks necessary to explore their potential.

Located in West London, LAMDA, the UK’s oldest drama school, has been training artists since 1861.

Contact: Madeleine Breen 917-720-3836; madeleine.breen@lamda.ac.uk www.lamda.ac.uk

LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY School of Theatre 105 Music and Dramatic Arts Bldg Baton Rouge, LA 70803 Degrees: BA: Arts Administration, Design/ Technology, Film/Television, Performance, Physical Theatre, Theatre Studies; MFA: Acting, Costume Technology and Design, Properties Technology, Scenic Technology and Design; PhD: Theatre/History/Literature/Criticism Profile: LSU Theatre is one of only a handful of departments in the country that supports a full-time, year-round professional theatre,

Swine Palace. Many students are Equity-eligible by graduation. Our entire physical plant was renovated in 2009.

Contact: Kristin Sosnowsky 225-578-4174; ksosno1@lsu.edu www.theatre.lsu.edu LOUISIANA TECH UNIVERSITY School of Theatre PO Box 8608 Ruston, LA 71272 Degrees: BA: Communications (Theatre); MA: Speech (Theatre) Profile: The School of Theatre offers a rigorous generalist curriculum based on the company model, with concentrations in acting, arts administration, design, directing, stage combat, stage management and playwriting.

Contact: Mark Guinn 318-257-2711; mguinn@latech.edu www.latechuniversitytheatre.com LOYOLA UNIVERSITY NEW ORLEANS 6363 St. Charles Ave, Box 155 New Orleans, LA 70118 Degrees: BA: Theatre Arts, Theatre Arts and Musical Theatre, Theatre Arts (Business Administration); Minor: Theatre Profile: At Loyola, there’s room for you to aspire to any role. Our students are actors, directors, playwrights and designers. Our immersive

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2021 SETC College, University Theatre Arts and Musical Theatre degrees train you in all aspects of theatre; our Liberal Arts core inspires the art you create.

Contact: C. Patrick Genduse 504-865-3840; cpgendus@loyno.edu cmfa.loyno.edu/theatre LYNN UNIVERSITY 3601 N Military Tr Boca Raton, FL 33431 Contact: Adam Simpson 561-237-7461; asimpson@lynn.edu lynn.edu/academics/areas-of-study/drama-bfa MARSHALL UNIVERSITY 1 John Marshall Dr Huntington, WV 25755 Degrees: BA: Theatre; BFA: Performance, Technical Production, Interdisciplinary (Music, Theatre, Dance), Musical Theatre; Minor: Theatre, Dance Profile: Marshall University Theatre operates in one of the largest, best-equipped theatre facilities in the Southeast. All BFA students participate in a professional internship experience. All students are invited to explore regular regional theatre and study abroad experiences. Four-Year Tuition Waiver Scholarships available for qualifying theatre majors.

Contact: Lang Reynolds 304-696-2546; reynoldsh@marshall.edu www.marshall.edu/theatre MARY BALDWIN UNIVERSITY 101 E Frederick St Staunton, VA 24401 Degrees: BA: Performing Arts (Theatre, Music, Film); BA/MLITT: Shakespeare and Performance; MLITT: Shakespeare and Performance; MFA: Shakespeare and Performance Profile: Coed undergraduate program; intimate black box theatre; undergraduate season produces four plays per year. Coed graduate program. MFA company model focuses on collaboration and ensemble practices; graduate productions perform at the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse.

Contact: Doreen Bechtol dbechtol@marybaldwin.edu www.marybaldwin.edu/arts MEREDITH COLLEGE 3800 Hillsborough St Raleigh, NC 27607 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Musical Theatre); K-12 Licensure to Teach Theatre; Professional Performance Certificate: Theatre; Minor: Theatre Profile: As a student in Meredith’s Theatre Department, you will learn from and work with faculty who are professional actors, designers and directors. Our program provides a strong setting for technical skill development, creative exploration and artistic scholarship as we educate women to excel in the arts.

Contact: Steven Roten 919-760-8719; rotenjo@meredith.edu www.meredith.edu

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METROPOLITAN STATE UNIVERSITY OF DENVER 890 Auraria Pkwy Denver, CO 80204 Contact: Admissions 303-556-5740; admissions@msudenver.edu www.msudenver.edu/theatre MICHAEL HOWARD STUDIOS The Professional Acting Studio for Theatre, Film and Television 152 W 25th St 10th Fl New York, NY 10001 Degrees: Certificate: Summer, One-Year and Two-Year Conservatories (Theatre, Film, Television, Business of Acting) P ro f i l e : Michael Howard Studios has guided Meryl Streep, Michael Douglas, Kerry Washington, Lea Michele and others into successful careers in theatre, film and television.

Our philosophy is to help actors develop a technique that is their own. Conservatories provide real-world exposure while training actors with the tools for a professional career.

Contact: Jessica Corn 212-645-1525 jessica@MichaelHowardStudios.com www.michaelhowardstudios.com MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY Campus Box 43 Murfreesboro, TN 37132 Degrees: BS: Theatre, Theatre Teacher Licensure; Minor: Entertainment Arts Design, Dance, Musical Theatre, Theatre Profile: Located 30 miles from Nashville, Middle Tennessee State University offers diverse training options for undergraduates only, in areas such as acting, design, directing, youth theatre, musical theatre and dance. MTSU features 130 undergraduate majors, 15 full-time faculty, two theatres and a full complement of state-of-the-art production facilities and technology.

Contact: Jeff Gibson 615-898-2640; jeff.gibson@mtsu.edu www.mtsu.edu/programs/theatre MILLIGAN UNIVERSITY 1 Blowers Blvd Milligan, TN 37682 Degrees: BA: Musical Theatre, Music Performance, Fine Arts (Theatre Concentration) Profile: Milligan University is a Christian liberal arts university in Johnson City, TN, whose vision is to change lives and shape culture through a commitment to servant leadership.

Intimate class sizes allow students to explore all aspects of music and theatre while thriving in an encouraging environment.

Contact: Carrie Klofach 423-461-8793; CAKlofach@milligan.edu www.milligan.edu/academic-programs/theatrearts-program

MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY 130 McComas Hall Mail Stop 9574 PO Box PF Mississippi State, MS 39762 Degrees: BA: Communication (Theatre) Profile: Theatre MSU is a student-centric, generalist theatre program housed in the Department of Communication. Theatre MSU nurtures professional, creative storytellers; embraces accessible, transformative experiences; and engages diverse, vibrant communities.

Contact: Tonya Hays 662-325-3203; thays@comm.msstate.edu comm.msstate.edu MISSISSIPPI UNIVERSITY FOR WOMEN 1100 College St, Box W-1619 Columbus, MS 39701 Degrees: BA: Theatre, Theatre Education with Teacher Certification; MFA: Theatre Education Profile: The MUW Theatre Program offers complete coursework in theoretical and practical aspects of the art of making theatre. Hallmarks of the program are a rigorous production schedule, individual attention throughout the training process and first-rate production values.

Contact: David Carter 662-329-7353; dbcarter@muw.edu www.muw.edu/theatre MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre and Dance 901 S National Ave Springfield, MO 65897 Degrees: BA: Theatre; BS: Theatre, Theatre Education; BFA: Acting, Musical Theatre, Design/ Stage Management, Dance Profile: Conservatory-style training in a supportive, liberal arts setting. Nationally competitive programs and top-notch faculty contribute to the significant success of MSU graduates. Program houses an Equity (AEA) affiliate theatre.

Contact: Joseph Price 417-836-5268; jprice@missouristate.edu theatreanddance.missouristate.edu MONTCLAIR STATE UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre and Dance 1 Normal Ave Montclair, NJ 07043 Contact: Eric Diamond 973-655-3120; diamonde@mail.montclair.edu www.montclair.edu/theatre-and-dance MURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY Global Languages and Theatre Arts 106 Fine Arts Bldg Murray, KY 42071 Degrees: BA: Theatre, Musical Theatre, Theatre/Film; BS: Theatre, Musical Theatre, Theatre/Film Profile: Our students practice skills in a liberal arts context that will assist them with employment opportunities in the entertainment industry and beyond. The department offers four to six productions each academic year, with students

& Training Program Directory participating in all facets of theatre, musical theatre and theatre/film production.

Contact: Brent Menchinger 270-809-4421; bmenchinger@murraystate.edu www.murraystate.edu/theatre NATIONAL THEATER INSTITUTE AT THE EUGENE O’NEILL THEATER CENTER 305 Great Neck Rd Waterford, CT 06385 Degrees: Certificate: National Theater Institute, National Music Theater Institute, Advanced Directing, Advanced Playwriting Semester, Theatermakers Summer Intensive, Moscow Art Theatre (up to 20 hours college credit/semester) Profile: With a singular schedule and an unmatched breadth of training, our six semesterlong programs offer students a springboard to the professional world. NTI’s credit-earning theatre intensives, taught by industry professionals and master teachers, train actors, singers, directors, dancers, designers, playwrights and composers.

Contact: Carrigan O’Brian 860-443-7139; cobrian@theoneill.org www.nationaltheaterinstitute.org THE NEIGHBORHOOD PLAYHOUSE SCHOOL OF THE THEATRE 340 E 54th St New York, NY 10022 Degrees: Certificate: Performing Arts, Acting Profile: Our conservatory offers individualized and concentrated training designed to prepare graduates for the professional demands of theatre, film, TV and new media. Each rigorous curriculum offered incorporates movement, voice and performance technique classes in tandem with rigorous Meisner Technique training. The second year culminates in performances and an industry showcase.

Contact: NP Admissions 212-688-3770 admissions@neighborhoodplayhouse.org www.neighborhoodplayhouse.org NEW YORK CONSERVATORY FOR DRAMATIC ARTS Film + Television + Theater 39 W 19th St, 2nd Fl New York, NY 10011 Degrees: AOS: Film and Television Performance, Musical Theatre Performance; Summer Musical Theatre Training Program (four-week musical theatre intensive on voice, dance and acting) Profile: Professional training two-year conservatory program culminates in a focus on film, television, emerging media and career preparation in the final year. Financial aid and scholarships are available. Summer Acting Training Program: This four-week summer acting intensive provides students with on-camera experience and six college credit hours. Scholarships are available.

Contact: Office of Admissions 212-645-0030 x4080; admissions@nycda.edu www.nycda.edu

NEW YORK FILM ACADEMY 17 Battery Pl, New York, NY 10004 3300 Riverside Dr, Burbank, CA 91505 420 Lincoln Rd, Suite 200, Miami Beach, FL 33139 Degrees: AFA, BFA or MFA: Acting for Film, Filmmaking, Producing, Cinematography, Screenwriting, Broadcast Journalism, Documentary Filmmaking, Photography, Graphic Design, Illustration, 3D Animation, Game Design; Oneand Two-Year Musical Theatre Conservatory Profile: NYFA is designed for a new generation of storytellers: artists who share a mutual passion and want to “learn by doing.” Our practical experience trains students to be the best filmmakers, visual artists and performers they can be, achieving more in less time than at other film or acting schools.

Contact: Roger Del Pozo 212-966-3488 x214; roger@nyfa.edu www.nyfa.edu NEWBERRY COLLEGE 2100 College St Newberry, SC 29108 Degrees: BA: Theatre; Minor: Musical Theatre, Theatre, Speech Profile: Newberry College is a private liberal arts college of 1,200 students on a beautiful campus in the South Carolina midlands. Newberry College Theatre prepares students for successful vocations and the ability to make a positive artistic impact on their communities – and the world.

Experience – Opportunities – Personal Attention: Newberry College Theatre.

Contacts: Mandy Butler; Matthew Fuller; Pat Gagliano mandy.butler@newberry.edu; matthew.fuller@ newberry.edu; pgagliano@newberry.edu www.newberry.edu NORTH GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre PO Box 1892 Tigerville, SC 29688 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Musical Theatre, Design/Tech, Applied Theatre) Profile: Christian university providing excellent liberal arts education designed to develop wellrounded individuals and accomplished artists.

Coursework includes a core of fundamental theatrical knowledge, advanced classes in chosen track, experience onstage and backstage, audition coaching, internships and opportunities for community outreach. NGU supports KCACTF, Alpha Psi, CITA and a student-run improv team.

Contact: Amy Dunlap 864-895-1580; amy.dunlap@ngu.edu www.ngu.edu/theatre NORTHEAST ALABAMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE PO Box 159, 138 AL Hwy 35 Rainsville, AL 35986 Degrees: AA: Theatre Profile: Our community college program offers 14 theatre scholarships, produces professionalcaliber productions and promotes a sense of

family and friendship like few other educational/ community theatres.

Contact: Kayleigh Smith 256-638-4418 x2218; smithk@nacc.edu www.nacc.edu/programs-of-study/english-andfine-arts-division/theatre-department NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY Halmos College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences; Department of Communication, Media, and the Arts 3301 College Ave Davie, FL 33314 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Acting for Stage and Screen, Musical Theatre, Design & Technical Production, Film and Dramatic Media), Dance, Music, Art and Design Profile: NSU is a private, not-for-profit university located on 300 acres in Davie, FL. Students have performance opportunities, with coursework in acting, technical theatre, directing, design, dance and musical theatre. Students are fully prepared for theatre careers and graduate study. Professional internships are available to all students.

Scholarships are available.

Contact: Daniel Gelbmann 954-262-7962; gelbmann@nova.edu Nova.edu/arts OHIO NORTHERN UNIVERSITY 525 S Main St Ada, OH 45810 Degrees: BA: Theatre; BFA: International Theatre Production, Musical Theatre; Minor: Dance, Arts Administration Profile: ONU offers a dynamic liberal arts education with a strong international focus.

Opportunities include: auditioning your first semester, being cast as a freshman, small classes with personalized attention from dedicated faculty, annually 30-35 national and international guest artists brought to campus to work with students, internships, and study abroad.

Contact: Kathe DeVault 419-772-2049; k-devault@onu.edu www.onu.edu OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY 1849 Cannon Dr Columbus, OH 43210 Degrees: BA: Theatre; Undergraduate Minor: Theatre, Musical Theatre, Media Production and Analysis, Video Arts; MA: Theatre Studies; MFA: Acting, Design; PhD: Theatre Studies; Graduate Minor: Theatre and Performance, Cinema/Video Profile: Our program develops original work from writing/devising to production and exploring new media in live performance. We are committed to training students who are civically engaged through performance. We provide our students numerous opportunities in performance and design with a six-show season and a studentdriven theatre lab producing 15 shows a year.

Contact: J. Briggs Cormier 614-292-8241; cormier.5@osu.edu www.theatre.osu.edu

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2021 SETC College, University OHIO UNIVERSITY School of Theater 307 Kantner Hall 1 Ohio University Athens, OH 45701 Degrees: BA: Theatre; BFA: Production Design & Technology, Performance (Acting, Musical Theatre), Stage Management, Playwriting; MA: Theatre; MAA: Arts Administration; MFA: Acting, Production Design & Technology, Directing, Playwriting Profile: Our programs are aimed at students interested in professional careers. We blend classroom training and production to produce a mainstage series, studio productions, play readings and a new play festival. We are processoriented.

Contact: Merri Biechler 740-593-4818; theater@ohio.edu www.ohio.edu/theater OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY School of Theatre 2501 N Blackwelder Ave Oklahoma City, OK 73106 Degrees: BA: Theatre & Performance; BFA: Acting, Theatre Design & Production (Stage/ Production Management, Costume Design, Scene Design, Lighting Design, Sound Design, Digital Media Design, Props Design, Technical Production) Profile: The School of Theatre prepares young theatre artists for a sustainable, professional life.

Our program is grounded in the philosophy of putting theory into practice from the classroom to the stage to produce creative, culturally aware and highly effective theatrical artists. Nearly every theatre student receives a talent-based scholarship.

Contact: Jennifer Trench 405-208-5727; jtrench@okcu.edu www.okcu.edu/theatre PALM BEACH ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY 901 S Flagler Dr West Palm Beach, FL 33416 Degrees: BA: Theatre Arts (Musical Theatre, Acting for Stage and Screen) Profile: A private Christian university located in a metropolitan environment adjacent to one of the nation’s premier performing arts centers, PBA offers extensive and specialized BA training positioning our graduates for successful careers.

Contact: Allen McCoy 561-803-2487; allen_mccoy@pba.edu www.pba.edu PIEDMONT COLLEGE 1021 Central Ave Demorest, GA 30535 Degrees: BA: Theatre, Musical Theatre, Technical Theatre and Design, Theatre for Youth, Theatre Education (Georgia Teaching Certificate, grades P-12); BFA: Arts Administration Profile: We are a small private college located 60 miles north of Atlanta in the northeast Georgia mountains. Our students experience rigorous

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academic training as well as professional training.

We offer four to six shows a year, plus various student showcases.

Contact: William Gabelhausen 706-778-8500 x1320 wgabelhausen@piedmont.edu www.piedmont.edu/fa POINT PARK UNIVERSITY Conservatory of Performing Arts 201 Wood St Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Degrees: BFA: Acting, Musical Theatre, Theatre Arts, Theatre Production (Technical Design/ Management, Stage Management, Design [Scenic, Costume, Lighting, Sound]) Profile: Point Park’s Conservatory is a powerhouse of creativity and opportunity that enables students to experience professional quality theatre and expand their skills in theatre making, design, technical production or stage management. Eighteen performances are developed in our brand-new, state-of-the-art Pittsburgh Playhouse facility. Scholarships and apprenticeships are available.

Contact: Troy Centofanto 412-392-3451; conservatory@pointpark.edu www.pointpark.edu/Academics/Schools/COPA POWERHOUSE THEATER AT VASSAR COLLEGE 124 Raymond Ave Box 225 Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 Profile: A training program for theatre artists since 1985. Students from around the country participate in this program for actors, directors and writers. Explore theatre with peers and professionals alike by living, breathing and creating theatre every day.

Contact: Ed Cheetham; Michael Sheehan 845-437-5907; powerhouse@vassar.edu powerhouse.vassar.edu PROFESSIONAL ACTOR TRAINING PROGRAM AT CHATTANOOGA STATE 4501 Amnicola Hwy Chattanooga, TN 37406 Degrees: AA; AS; AFA; Certificate Profile: A two-year program for students pursuing careers in theatre, television and film. Unique. Intensive. Affordable. Offering four semesters of Acting, Improvisation, Voice/ Speech, Movement/Dance, Production and Musical Theatre. Modeled after The New Actors Workshop (New York City) founded by George Morrison, Mike Nichols and Paul Sills. Free tuition for Tennessee Promise students.

Contact: Rex Knowles; Sherry Landrum 423-697-3246; theatre@chattanoogastate.edu www.chattanoogastate.edu/theatre

PURDUE UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre 552 W Wood St West Lafayette, IN 47907 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Acting, Design and Production); Sound for the Performing Arts; MFA: Acting, Audio Technology, Costume Design, Lighting Design, Sound Design, Scenic Design, Technical Direction; Certificate (undergraduate): Acting, Lighting; Minor: Theatre, Design and Production Profile: The Purdue Department of Theatre offers a rigorous, supportive environment that combines one-on-one mentoring, classroom and studio work, and applied work in production.

Students develop skills in collaboration and problem-solving, along with creative and cultural competencies, preparing them for careers in theatre, education, law, business and other fields.

Contact: Ann M. Shanahan 765-494-3074; theatre@purdue.edu www.cla.purdue.edu/theatre RADFORD UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre and Cinema Box 6969 Radford, VA 24142 Degrees: BS/BA: Theatre (Performance, Directing, Design & Technical Theatre); BA: Dance; BS: Dance Education; BFA: Dance (Performance); Minor: Theatre, Dance, Cinema Profile: The Department of Theatre and Cinema offers liberal arts and pre-professional studies.

Students of cinema, dance and theatre receive instruction rich in diverse perspectives and cross-disciplinary experiences. The Theatre and Cinema Department is supported by strong programs which contribute to the cultural life of the university and community.

Contact: Richard Dunham 540-831-5012; rdunham6@radford.edu www.radford.edu/~theatre RANDOLPH COLLEGE Theatre Department 2500 Rivermont Ave Lynchburg, VA 24503-1555 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Acting, Directing, Design, Management, Technical Production); BFA: Theatre; Interdisciplinary (Visual Arts, Dance, Music, Film, Creative Writing) Profile: Randolph College is a small liberal arts college nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge, with vibrant guest artist programs and personalized instruction. Students explore all areas of theatre, collaboratively producing a three-show season and uniquely earning key production positions as their capstone experience.

Contact: Stephanie Holladay Earl; Heather Sinclair 434-947-8563; searl@randolphcollege.edu 434-947-8564; hsinclair@randolphcollege.edu www.randolphcollege.edu/theatre

& Training Program Directory REGENT UNIVERSITY 1000 Regent University Dr, COM 240 Virginia Beach, VA 23464 Degrees: BA: Theatre Arts; BFA: Acting; MA: Theatre; MFA: Acting; Certificate: Theatre Practices Profile: From our foundational BA program to our Professional Actor Training Program (MFA), our professionally active faculty offers a cuttingedge education in the synthesis of theatre artistry, culture and faith.

Contact: Office of Admissions 888-777-7729; comadmissions@regent.edu www.regent.edu/sca REINHARDT UNIVERSITY 7300 Reinhardt Cir Waleska, GA 30183 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Technical, Academic); BFA: Musical Theatre Profile: Reinhardt University offers a conservatory-style approach to its theatre training in a small liberal arts setting. Class size remains small, and individual instruction is provided by faculty that have all been professionals in the performance community.

Contact: David Nisbet 770-720-5860; dsn@reinhardt.edu www.reinhardt.edu ROLLINS COLLEGE Department of Theatre and Dance 1000 Holt Ave #2735 Winter Park, FL 32789 Degrees: BA: Theatre; Minor: Dance Profile: We offer a liberal arts degree which provides students with a well-rounded education.

Students study all aspects of theatre, including directing, performing, musical theatre, design, technical and history/criticism. We hold auditions once a year for scholarships for high school seniors. The Priscilla Parker Scholarship offers up to $10,000 per year.

Contact: Alexandra Feliciano 407-646-2501; afeliciano@rollins.edu www.rollins.edu/theatre ROWAN UNIVERSITY College of Performing Arts Department of Theatre and Dance 201 Mullica Hill Rd Glassboro, NJ 08028 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Acting, Musical Theatre, Dance-Theatre, Design/Technical, Pre-Teaching), Dance; MA: Arts Administration (online); BA/MST: Theatre Education Profile: We educate students in the contemporary practice of theatre and dance within a liberal arts curriculum. Accredited by NAST, Rowan offers a broad-based education that integrates physical, vocal, technical and performance skills with the intellectual development necessary for lifelong learning, as well as master classes and productions with visiting artists.

Contact: Elisabeth Hostetter 856-256-4500 x53396; hostetter@rowan.edu www.rowan.edu/theatredance

ROYAL WELSH COLLEGE OF MUSIC AND DRAMA Castle Grounds Cathays Park Cardiff CF10 3ER United Kingdom Contact: Ian Evans Ian.evans@rwcmd.ac.uk www.rwcmd.ac.uk SAMFORD UNIVERSITY 800 Lakeshore Dr Homewood, AL 35229 Degrees: BA: Acting/Directing, Technical/ Design; BFA: Musical Theatre; Minor: Theatre, Dance, Film Production Profile: The Theatre and Dance Department aspires to be a leader in undergraduate theatre and dance education, with a commitment to the artist as a community partner and contributor. At the core of the department’s mission is a commitment to character, ethics and artistic excellence.

Contact: Katie Overturf 205-726-4111; kovertur@samford.edu www.samford.edu/arts SAVANNAH COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN PO Box 2072 Savannah, GA 31402 Degrees: BA: Television Producing; BFA: Performing Arts, Production Design, Dramatic Writing, Film & Television, Sound Design; MFA: Performing Arts, Production Design, Dramatic Writing, Film & Television, Sound Design, Themed Entertainment Design; MA: Cinema Studies, Creative Business Leadership, Film & Television, Production Design Profile: At SCAD, students receive focused training in stage and film/television acting/tech and countless opportunities to step into the limelight. You study under professors who are awardwinning actors/directors, meet celebrities at the Savannah Film Festival and aTVfest, and work with the in-house casting office – all because, at SCAD, your passion takes center stage.

Contact: Frances Hardwich Jones 800-869-7223; fjones@scad.edu www.scad.edu SAVANNAH STATE UNIVERSITY Department of Fine Arts, Humanities and Wellness 3219 College St Savannah, GA 31494 Contact: David Poole 912-358-3189; poole@savannahstate.edu www.savannahstate.edu/class/dance/ performing-arts.shtml

SEWANEE: THE UNIVERSITY OF THE SOUTH 735 University Ave Sewanee, TN 37383 Degrees: BA: Theatre; Minor: Theatre, Dance Profile: The Department of Theatre and Dance is housed in the Tennessee Williams Center, a state-of-the-art performance facility. Sewanee offers the student a strong foundation in all areas of the theatre: acting, directing, design, dance, playwriting, history, literature and performance theory, while studying in a unique liberal arts program.

Contact: Jennifer Matthews 931-598-1126; jmatthew@sewanee.edu www.sewanee.edu SHENANDOAH UNIVERSITY 1460 University Dr Winchester, VA 22601 Degrees: BFA: Musical Theatre, Acting, Theatre Design and Production (Stage Management, Costume Design, Scenic Design, Lighting Design and/or Technical Production) Profile: We provide comprehensive, preprofessional undergraduate training at one of the country’s leading conservatories, with a dedicated faculty of active professionals in theatre, music and dance.

Contact: Kevin Covert 540-665-4558; kcovert@su.edu www.su.edu/conservatory/theatre-home SHORTER UNIVERSITY 315 Shorter Ave Rome, GA 30165 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Design/ Technical Theatre); BFA: Theatre, Musical Theatre Performance; Minor: Dance, Theatre, Musical Theatre Profile: Placing an equal importance on academic and artistic excellence, we seek a balance between theoretical and applied material. Because we are a smaller university, we have the ability to focus on every student, offering performance opportunities to first-year students, resulting in a high percentage of professional and graduate placements.

Contact: Tara Warfield 706-233-7362; twarfield@shorter.edu www.shorter.edu/theatre-department SLIPPERY ROCK UNIVERSITY 214 University Union Slippery Rock, PA 16057 Contact: Rebecca Morrice 724-738-2333; Rebecca.morrice@sru.edu www.sru.edu/academics/colleges-anddepartments/cla/departments/theatre

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2021 SETC College, University SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY The Jeanine Larson Dobbins Conservatory of Theatre and Dance 1 University Plaza, MS 7850 Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 Degrees: BA: Theatre, Dance; BFA: Acting, Dance, Design/Technology, Musical Theatre Profile: NAST- and NASD-accredited. We prepare students for professional theatre/film/ television careers. Programming is divided into three areas: technique training, production, and career preparation. We have world-class facilities, 22 full-time faculty/staff and 240+ majors. Annual productions include six mainstage, four second stage, multiple one-acts and showcases, Fault Line Film Festival, River Campus Summer Arts Festival, and both NYC and LA Showcases.

Contact: Kenneth L. Stilson 573-986-6818; kstilson@semo.edu www.semo.edu/theatreanddance SOUTHERN ARKANSAS UNIVERSITY Department of Performing Arts and Mass Communication 100 E University Magnolia, AR 71753 Degrees: BFA: Musical Theatre, Theatre (Acting, Design/Tech/Management) Profile: We offer one of the most affordable BFA degrees in the country. Students get

start a movement

Study Theatre at SMU

B.F.A. Theatre - Acting B.F.A. Theatre - Theatre Studies M.F.A. Acting M.F.A. Stage Design

smu.edu/theatre 214.768.3217

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individualized and personal attention in a small classroom and university setting. Performing and production experience begins as a freshman.

We offer support for travel to conferences and assist in finding summer employment within the industry. Graduates have gone on to fulfilling lives and careers in the theatre and entertainment industries or graduate studies. Scholarships and out-of-state tuition waivers available.

Contact: Brittany Bara 870-235-4263; BMBara@saumag.edu www.saumag.edu/theatre SOUTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre Mail Code 6608 Carbondale, IL 62901 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Design, Production, History, Dramaturgy); BFA: Musical Theatre; MFA: Directing, Scene Design, Lighting Design, Costume Design, Technical Direction, Playwriting; PhD: Interdisciplinary with Speech Communication in Theatre History, Criticism, Dramaturgy, Performance Studies Profile: SIUC blends scholarship with practice in an intensive production program and maintains a professional summer stock theatre company.

Contact: Admissions 618-453-2121; admissions@siu.edu www.theater.siuc.edu SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY PO Box 750356 Dallas, TX 75275 Degrees: BFA: Theatre (Acting, Theatre Studies) Profile: Our undergraduate BFA program has two tracks: Acting and Theatre Studies. The acting track is designed for those students who choose to train in solely acting skills during their junior and senior years. The theatre studies track is designed for those students who wish to connect their acting study with other disciplines in the theatre arts, such as directing, playwriting or stage management.

Contact: Benard Cummings 214-768-3932; abcummings@smu.edu smu.edu/meadows SOUTHERN UNION STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE 750 Roberts St Wadley, AL 36276 Degrees: AS: Performance Profile: With a curriculum geared toward transferring, our program has excelled in matriculating students into college and university theatre programs. Our small size allows students to immerse themselves in all aspects of theatre, from set construction to performance. Auditions are held in March.

Contact: Michael Williams, Jr. 256-395-2211 x5811 mwilliams@suscc.edu www.suscc.edu/campus-life/theater.cms

SPELMAN COLLEGE Department of Theatre & Performance 350 Spelman Ln, Box 244 Atlanta, GA 30314 Degree: BA Profile: The Department of Theatre and Performance offers the creative and inquisitive candidate an opportunity to explore performance, writing and design through experimentation and exploration. This interdisciplinary approach to performance offers a unique approach to theatre studies.

Contact: Aku Kadogo 404-270-5564; akadogo@spelman.edu www.spelman.edu/academics/majors-andprograms/theater-and-performance/faculty STAGECRAFT INSTITUTE OF LAS VEGAS 2232 S Nellis Blvd #112 Las Vegas, NV 89104 Degrees: Certificat de reussir: Technical training for live entertainment industry; Seal of Qualification: Audio, SFX Special Effects, Lighting Technology, Lighting Systems and Programming Profile: SILV offers a one-of-a-kind, handson approach to training for live entertainment at levels required today for state-of-the-art technologies. SILV is dedicated to teaching by doing. Instructors are working professionals dedicated to sharing their experiences with the next generation. Industry partners ensure that the most current gear is available to support training.

Contact: 702-388-7458 info@stagecraftinstitute.com www.stagecraftinstitute.com STELLA ADLER STUDIO OF ACTING 65 Broadway Floor 2 New York, NY 10006 ART OF ACTING STUDIO 1017 N Orange Dr Los Angeles, CA 90036 Degrees: Certificate: Three-Year Conservatory Program, Two-Year Evening Conservatory Program, LA Conservatory Program, Summer Training, Online Courses Profile: Since 1949, the Stella Adler Studio has trained some of the most important American actors and has evolved into one of the most culturally rich environments in New York City and now Los Angeles. Training programs include Professional Conservatory, Summer Intensives and Seasonal Part-Time Workshops.

Contact: Ryan Chittaphong 212-689-0087; ryan@stellaadler.com www.stellaadler.com www.artofactingstudio.com

& Training Program Directory TEMPLE UNIVERSITY School of Theater, Film & Media Arts 1301 W Norris St Philadelphia, PA 19122 Degrees: BA: Theatre Studies (Acting, Design & Production, Directing); BFA: Musical Theatre, Technical Production & Management; BA and MEd: Theatre Education 4+1; MA: Musical Theatre Studies; MFA: Acting, Directing, Design (Costume, Lighting, Scenic), Playwriting; Musical Theatre Collaboration Profile: Temple’s distinguished faculty is dedicated to professional training within a rigorous liberal arts foundation by challenging students to learn and create in a variety of classroom and production settings. Opportunities are plentiful on campus, in the community and in Philadelphia, one of the most vibrant of America’s theatre centers.

Contact: James Short 215-204-8598; tfma@temple.edu tfma.temple.edu/theater TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY 3500 John A Merritt Blvd PO Box 9537 Nashville, TN 37209 Contact: Lawrence James 615-963-5809; ljames@tnstate.edu www.tnstate.edu TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY School of Theatre and Dance Box 42061 Lubbock, TX 79409 Degrees: BA: Theatre, Dance; BFA: Acting, Dance, Design, Musical Theatre; MA: Dance Studies, Theatre; MFA: Performance and Pedagogy, Design, Playwriting, Arts Administration; PhD: Fine Arts; Minor: Dance, Theatre Profile: Seasons consist of 8-10 productions, a festival of new student work, Wildwind Performance Laboratory, and the Marfa Intensives for Devised Theatre. We cast undergraduate and graduate students and assign student directors/ designers/choreographers to each production.

Fine Arts PhD is a unique interdisciplinary program combining scholarship and practice.

Contact: Mark J. Charney 806-834-1683; mark.charney@ttu.edu www.theatre.ttu.edu THEATRE OF ARTS College for the Contemporary Actor 1536 N Highland Ave Hollywood, CA 90028 Degrees: AOS: Acting Profile: Founded in 1927, Theatre of Arts’ actor training programs for theatre, television and film are taught by currently working and experienced actors, directors and casting directors. Conservatory training offers 700 hours of on-camera scene work designed to prepare the student for professional casting and auditions.

Contact: Harrison Butler 323-463-2500; harrisonbutler@toa.edu www.toa.edu

TOWSON UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre Arts Suite 3037 COFAC 8000 York Rd Towson, MD 21252 Degrees: BA/BS: Theatre (Theatre Studies, Design & Production); BFA: Acting; MFA: Theatre Arts Profile: Theatre students at Towson University are empowered to fulfill their potential through an education in which they explore the world of theatre, engage in collaborative learning, and develop the capacities to excel as artists and citizens. The MFA program cultivates the selfgenerative artist through an interdisciplinary, process-oriented and collaborative experience.

Contact: Robin Quick 410-704-2792 rquick@towson.edu www.towson.edu/theatre TROY UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre and Dance Malone Hall 132 Troy, AL 36082 Degrees: BS/BA: Theatre (Performance, DTM); BSE: Theatre Education (Grades P-12); BFA: Dance Profile: Troy offers a competitive program that is demanding and nurturing, with emphasis on strong collaboration and integration between Theatre and Dance, and individualized opportunities for students with diverse interests. Departmental talent-based scholarships, student staff and leadership opportunities available. Troy offers lucrative academic, leadership and opportunity scholarships.

Contact: Department of Theatre and Dance 334-808-6142 theatreanddance@troy.edu www.troy.edu; www.troytheatre.org TULANE UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre and Dance 215 McWilliams Hall New Orleans, LA 70118 Contact: Antony Sandoval 504-862-8000 fsandova@tulane.edu liberalarts.tulane.edu/departments/theatredance

THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA Department of Theatre and Dance Box 870239 Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Degrees: BA: Theatre, Musical Theatre, Dance; BFA: Acting, Musical Theatre, Design & Technical Production; MFA: Acting, Arts Management, Costume Design/Production, Directing, Lighting Design, Scenic Design, Technical Direction, Dance Profile: UA offers comprehensive academic and practical training on a liberal arts foundation to prepare students for professional success.

Opportunities include eight theatre productions,

six dance productions, SummerTide Theatre in Gulf Shores, and one-time performances ranging from full-scale roadhouse productions to off-Broadway shows in New York each year.

Contact: Nancy Calvert 205-348-5283 ncalvert@bama.ua.edu theatre.ua.edu

UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM ASC 255 1720 2nd Ave S Birmingham, AL 35295-1263 Degrees: BA: Theatre (General, Performance, Design/Technology); BFA: Musical Theatre Performance Profile: A production-oriented program with a liberal arts foundation. We provide professional training in musical theatre, acting, design/ technology and management while expanding students’ cultural and aesthetic awareness, developing their research and communication skills, and fostering critical thinking, discipline and collaboration through practical application of learned skills and theoretical study.

Contact: Kelly Allison 205-934-8776 kallison@uab.edu www.uab.edu/theatre

PROFESSIONAL CONSERVATORY SUMMER INTENSIVES ONLINE WORKSHOPS

212-689-0087 | StellaAdler.com classes@stellaadler.com

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2021 SETC College, University UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA IN HUNTSVILLE 342 Morton Hall, 301 Sparkman Dr Huntsville, AL 35899 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Technical, Dramaturgy) Profile: UAH Theatre is dedicated to providing both a broad and a deep dive into the world of theatre. With four productions per season, our students are able to gain employable skills in all the different areas of theatre, providing them with an entrepreneurial mindset to take into the industry.

Contact: David Harwell 256-824-6871; theatre@uah.edu www.uah.edu/theatre UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS IRA BRIND SCHOOL OF THEATER ARTS 320 S Broad St Philadelphia, PA 19102 Degrees: BFA: Musical Theatre, Acting, Directing, Playwriting + Production, Theatre Design + Technology; MFA: Devised Performance; GC: Devised Performance; Minor: Musical Theatre Profile: The Ira Brind School of Theater Arts is committed to developing the individual artistic voice of each student. Each student will develop both skills and an expanded point of view. Upon graduation, our students are ready to engage the medium and the world with a strong sense

OFFERING

General BA–Performance/Design/Production and BFA–Musical Theatre PARTICIPATE IN

Over 300 opportunities each year as a writer, actor, technician, designer, running crew, stage manager, dramaturge, or director 5 fully mounted annual productions, numerous showcases, 4 year-long touring companies 2 state-of-the-art performance facilities and 3 state-of-the-art production facilities Annual participation in the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival

uab.edu/cas/theatre

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of themselves as citizen-artists.

Contact: Katie Donovan; Justin Lujan; Amy Dugas Brown; Natalie Robin kadonovan@uarts.edu; jlujan@uarts.edu; ambrown@uarts.edu; nrobin@uarts.edu http://catalogue.uarts.edu/preview_entity. php?catoid=23&ent_oid=666&returnto=5214 UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA 12488 Centaurus Blvd Orlando, FL 32816 Degrees: BA: Theatre; BFA: Acting, Musical Theatre, Design/Tech, Stage Management; MA: Theatre; MFA: Acting, Youth Theatre Profile: BFA and MFA programs are highly selective, rigorous, professional training programs that emphasize theatre theory, practice and preparation for a successful career in theatre.

UCF is the country’s second largest university, and productions occur year-round. MA and BA in Theatre provide more generalized degree programs.

Contact: Michael Wainstein 407-823-2519; theatre@ucf.edu theatre.ucf.edu UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL MISSOURI Department of Theatre and Dance Martin Bldg, 113 Warrensburg, MO 64093 Degrees: BA: Theatre; BFA: Musical Theatre, Theatre (Performance, Design Technology); BSE: Speech and Theatre; Minor: Theatre, Dance Profile: Our six mainstage, 12 one-act season and vibrant black box theatre program provide numerous opportunities to students onstage and behind the scenes. Our programs are NASTaccredited, and our endowed Guest Artist Series allows students to hear different viewpoints on craft from regionally and nationally acclaimed artists.

Contact: Kathleen Leicht 660-543-8781; leicht@umco.edu theatreanddance@umco.edu www.ucmo.edu/theatre UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA School of Theatre and Dance Nadine McGuire Theatre and Dance Pavilion PO Box 115900 Gainesville, FL 32611 Degrees: BA: General Theatre, Dance; BFA: Performance (Acting, Musical Theatre), Production (Costume Design, Lighting Design, Scene Design), Dance; MFA: Acting, Costume Design/Technology, Lighting Design, Scene Design; Minor: General Theatre, Production, Dance Profile: The school stages 8-10 theatre and dance productions during the academic year. The school’s Summer Repertory Theatre and Swamp Dance Fest, a summer dance intensive, focus on the development of new works in partnership with guest artists.

Contact: Peter Carpenter 352-273-0549; pcarpenter@arts.ufl.edu arts.ufl.edu/theatreanddance

THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA Department of Theatre and Film Studies Fine Arts Bldg Athens, GA 30602 Degrees: BA; MFA; PhD Profile: The department offers rigorous training in all traditional areas of theatre performance, design and scholarship, coupled with training in video production, interactive media and computer animation.

Contact: David Z. Saltz 706-542-2836; saltz@uga.edu www.drama.uga.edu UNIVERSITY OF INDIANAPOLIS Department of Theatre 1400 E Hanna Ave Esch Hall 065 Indianapolis, IN 46227 Degrees: BA/BS: Theatre (Performance/ Directing, Design/Technology); BS: Theatre Education Profile: Beginning your first semester, you’ll have the opportunity to audition for roles, build sets, be a part of tech crews and more. Our program is designed to challenge, develop and broaden the skills of our students. From engaging courses to working on productions that build your theatre network, you’ll develop a keen sense of community on and off campus.

UIndy theatre scholarships of up to one-quarter tuition available.

Contact: Jodi Bush 317-788-3455; bushj@uindy.edu theatre.uindy.edu UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY Department of Theatre and Dance 114 Fine Arts Bldg Lexington, KY 40506 Degrees: BA: Dance, Theatre (Performance, Design/Technology, Playwriting); Minor: Dance, Theatre; Certificate: Musical Theatre, Filmmaking: Production & Dramatic Writing Profile: Students get hands-on training and one-on-one mentorship from professional theatre faculty. Our liberal arts focus is coupled with career counseling for successful transition to professional life. Students are encouraged to find their passion and pursue it – with most students pursuing internships and study abroad opportunities.

Contact: Tony Hardin 859-257-3297; Tony.Hardin@uky.edu finearts.uky.edu/theatre-dance UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE Department of Theatre Arts 2314 S Floyd St Louisville, KY 40292 Degrees: BS: Theatre, Production, Performance; MFA: Acting/Performance; Graduate Certificate: African-American Theatre; Minor: Black Performance Studies Profile: The department trains students in the fine art of theatre, voice, movement, scene study and design, and also teaches the historical and

& Training Program Directory literary context of the theatre as a humanist and liberal art.

Contact: Nefertiti Burton 502-852-8445; nefertiti@louisville.edu www.louisville.edu/a-s/ta UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON Department of Theatre and Dance DuPont Hall, 1301 College Ave Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Degrees: BA: Theatre; Minor: Musical Theatre, Arts Administration; Pre-K Teacher Licensure in Theatre Arts Profile: Program allows you to concentrate on the area in which you have the greatest interest, while pursuing a double major or minor, or obtaining a teaching license. Whether you intend to work professionally, pursue a related field or continue your studies, the education you receive will prepare you for the future.

Contact: Gregg Stull 540-654-1980; gstull@umw.edu cas.umw.edu/theatre UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, BALTIMORE COUNTY Department of Theatre 1000 Hilltop Circle, PAHB 322 Baltimore, MD 21250 Degrees: BA: Design and Production, Theatre Studies; BFA: Acting; Minor: Theatre Profile: UMBC Theatre fosters artistically innovative and socially engaged graduates in a leading liberal arts program. Using the latest technologies and practices, we experiment with theatrical forms, create provocative new work, and give voice where it is most needed. Nationally acclaimed faculty closely mentor each student at UMBC and in the field.

Contact: Laurie Newton 410-455-2917; theatre@umbc.edu theatre@umbc.edu UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK 2810 Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center College Park, MD 20742 Degrees: BA: Theatre, Dance; MFA: Dance, Design; MA: Theatre and Performance Studies; PhD: Theatre and Performance Studies; Minor: Arts Leadership Profile: The University of Maryland’s School of Theatre, Dance and Performance Studies (TDPS) offers undergraduate and graduate programs that foster innovative collaboration between creative and scholarly work in the performing arts. TDPS creates live and virtual performances and learning experiences and is housed in The Clarice, a state-of-the-art performing arts facility.

Contact: Jennifer Barclay 301-405-6676; jbarclay@umd.edu Tdps.umd.edu

UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST Department of Theater 112 Fine Arts Center 151 Presidents Drive Amherst, MA 01003 D e g r e e s : BA: Theatre (Perfor mance, Dramaturgy, Design & Technology); Certificate: Multicultural Theatre; Additional courses in Musical Theatre, Playwriting, Directing, Devising, Stage Management; MFA: Directing, Dramaturgy, Costume Design, Lighting Design, Scenic Design & Technology Profile: We are the state’s flagship public university, and part of the Five College Consortium in beautiful Western Massachusetts. We pride ourselves on being an oasis of innovation and outstanding teaching and mentorship.

Contact: Harley Erdman harley@theater.umass.edu www.umass.edu/theater UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS Department of Theatre & Dance 144 Theatre Bldg Memphis, TN 38152-3150 Degrees: BFA: Theatre (Performance, Design & Technical Production, Musical Theatre, Dance, Dance Science); MFA: Theatre (Directing, Design & Technical Production) Profile: We offer quality mentoring, extensive training in all three areas of performance, dedicated individual advisors, a richly varied production program, a state-of-the-art design lab, a full range of dance classes, realized design experiences, and casting opportunities beginning your first semester.

Contact: Kristin Shupe 901-678-2523; kshupe@memphis.edu www.memphis.edu/theatre

UNIVERSITY OF MONTEVALLO Station 6210, Theatre Department Montevallo, AL 35115 Degrees: BA/BS: Theatre; BFA: Musical Theatre, Acting, Directing, Design/Technology Profile: UM Theatre is a department of over 115 majors housed in our brand-new, 35,000-squarefoot Center for the Arts. We provide numerous hands-on training opportunities, including a diverse production season and guest artist workshops. We train students for professional careers within the context of a first-rate liberal arts education. NAST accredited; current Senior Showcase with The Growing Studio, NYC. Contact: David Callaghan 205-665-6210; callaghand@montevallo.edu www.montevallo.edu/thea THE UNIVERSITY OF MOUNT UNION 1972 Clark Ave Alliance, OH 44601 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Acting, Musical Theatre, Design/Technology) Profile: Recognized as the No. 1 college in the Great Lakes region for “return on investment,” Mount Union combines small school accessibility with the opportunities of larger institutions, including a professional summer theatre company and guest artist programs which bring nationally recognized professionals to our theatres. Performance and technical scholarships available.

UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI 110 Isom Hall PO Box 1848 University, MS 38677 Degrees: BA: Theatre Arts; BFA: Acting for Stage and Screen, Design & Theatre Production, Film Production; Minor: Theatre Arts Profile: Comprehensive training, rigorous academics and great performance, design and film opportunities prepare students for professional employment or graduate study.

Individualized attention is provided by a professional and dedicated faculty. Courses and practical experiences ensure that every student can create, learn and discover their artistic path at Ole Miss!

Contact: Michael Barnett 662-915-5816; mbarnett@olemiss.edu theatre.olemiss.edu UNIVERSITY OF MOBILE 5735 College Pkwy Mobile, AL 36613 Contact: 251-442-2896 www.umobile.edu

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2021 SETC College, University Contact: Kevin P. Kern 330-823-3875 kernkp@mountunion.edu www.mountunion.edu/academics/departments/ department-of-theatre UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA LAS VEGAS Department of Theatre 4505 Maryland Pkwy, Box 455036 Las Vegas, NV 89154 Degrees: BA: Stage and Screen Acting, DesignTechnology, General Studies; MFA: Performance, Design-Technology, Stage Management Profile: UNLV offers a diversified curriculum allowing students to train in all aspects of theatre, while taking advantage of the entertainment richness of Las Vegas. In the classroom, onstage or in TV/film acting, we foster creative development and growth that prepares students for the world’s stage in entertainment.

Contact: Norma Saldivar 702-895-3666; theatre@unlv.edu theatre.unlv.edu UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL CB 3230, Center for Dramatic Art Chapel Hill, NC 27599 Degrees: BA: Dramatic Art; MFA: Acting, Technical Production, Costume Production Profile: The Department of Dramatic Art offers a BA degree providing a well-rounded theatre education, giving its majors a broad understanding and appreciation of theatre on artistic and cultural levels. The graduate programs work closely with PlayMakers Repertory Company, a professional (LORT/AEA) theatre.

Contact: David Navalinsky 919-962-1132; navalinsky@unc.edu drama.unc.edu UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHARLOTTE 9201 University City Blvd Charlotte, NC 28223 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Applied Theatre, Design/ Tech, Directing, Dramaturgy and Dramatic Writing, Performance, Theatre Education leading to NC State Licensure); Certificate: Musical Theatre Profile: UNCC faculty work closely with students as mentors in classroom and production settings, emphasizing collaboration, critical thinking and leadership skills. Our alumni work as actors, directors, designers, technicians, playwrights, dramaturgs, teachers, teaching artists and arts administrators, as well as in a host of positions outside the arts.

Contact: Tom Burch Tburch8@uncc.edu Coaa.uncc.edu/theatre

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UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT GREENSBORO PO Box 26170 406 Tate St, 201 Taylor Theatre Bldg Greensboro, NC 27402 Degrees: BA; BFA; MFA Profile: UNCG offers programs in Acting, Musical Theatre, Directing, Theatre for Youth, Design/ Technology Production and Theatre Education.

Contact: Natalie Sowell 336-334-4112; ndsowell@uncg.edu www.uncgtheatre.com UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT WILMINGTON 5270 Randal Pkwy Cultural Arts Bldg Wilmington, NC 28403 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Design/ Technical, Customized) Profile: Our goal is to nurture, encourage, support, train and educate artists in the study and practice of theatre. We train students to pursue a career in the vast field of show business – in theatre, film, television, or a host of other related fields. Students learn the essential skills needed for success.

Contact: Thomas Salzman 910-962-2061; salzmant@uncw.edu www.uncw.edu/theatre UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA SCHOOL OF THE ARTS Schools of Drama and Design & Production 1533 S Main St Winston-Salem, NC 27127-2188 Degrees: HS Diploma: Acting, Directing; BFA: Acting, Directing, Costume Design & Technology, Scene Painting, Stage Properties, Lighting, Sound, Scenic Technology, Scene Design, Stage Management, Wig & Makeup; MFA: Costume Design, Costume Technology, Production and Project Management, Scene Design, Scenic Art, Stage Automation, Stage Properties, Wig & Makeup Design, Sound Design, Technical Direction Profile: UNCSA is a conservatory that trains the whole artist for professional careers in dance, design and production, drama, filmmaking, music and visual arts.

Contact: Admissions Office 336-770-3290; admissions@uncsa.edu www.uncsa.edu UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA Helmerich School of Drama 640 Parrington Oval, Ste 125 Norman, OK 73019 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Dramaturgy, Stage Management, Scenic Design, Lighting Design, Sound Design); Minor: Theatre Profile: The mission of the University of Oklahoma School of Drama is to educate theatre artists, scholars and teachers, preparing them to enter their professions with a knowledge of evolving industry standards; to perpetuate theatrical art by encouraging and nurturing the

development of new artistic endeavors; and to provide a variety of theatrical productions and programs of excellence to Oklahoma audiences.

Contact: Drama_recruitment@ou.edu ou.edu/finearts/drama UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA 5751 USA South Dr Laidlaw Performing Arts Center Room 1052 Mobile, AL 36688 Degrees: BA: Dramatic Arts; BFA: Theatre (Performance) Profile: We offer distinctive options for degrees within a department devoted exclusively to a balance between production experience, training and achieving pre-professional skills and expectations.

Contact: Lars Tatom 251-460-6305; tatom@southalabama.edu www.southalabama.edu/drama UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA AIKEN 471 University Pkwy Aiken, SC 29801 Degrees: BA: Fine Arts (Theatre) Profile: Dedicated to giving students a comprehensive theatre education, we offer the opportunity to explore all areas of theatre, both on- and offstage. A professionally active faculty, strong classes, internships and a cutting-edge production program prepare students for the theatre of the 21st century.

Contact: Dewey Scott-Wiley 803-641-343; DeweyW@usca.edu etherredge.usca.edu/academics UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA COLUMBIA Longstreet Theatre 1300 Greene St #402 Columbia, SC 29208 Degrees: BA: Theatre, Dance (Performance/ Choreography, Dance Education); MA: Theatre; MAT: Theatre; MFA: Theatre (Acting, Directing, Costume Design, Lighting Design, Scenic Design); Minor: Theatre, Dance Profile: With areas of study focused on acting, directing, design, stagecraft, teaching and research, our theatre program offers undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to learn, practice and chart their own courses. UofSC-Columbia is the only college in the state offering the MFA in Theatre, the highest degree possible in the fields of design and performance.

Contact: Stephanie Milling 803-777-0768; smilling@mailbox.sc.edu Theatre.sc.edu

& Training Program Directory

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA School of Theatre and Dance 4202 E Fowler Ave TAR 230 Tampa, FL 33620 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Acting/Performance, Design/Technical Theatre, Theatre Arts); Minor: Theatre Profile: This program is committed to facilitating artists and scholars through training in the studio, classroom and performance. The program, with 3-5 mainstage and 2-3 black box productions a year, provides the opportunity for intensive study in performance, design and theatre arts that prepares students for graduate school or the professional world.

Contact: Nadine Niforos 813-974-1739; nniforos@usf.edu Usf.edu/arts/theatre-and-dance UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA School of Dramatic Arts 1029 Childs Way Los Angeles, CA 90089-0791 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Acting, Comedy, Design), Visual and Performing Arts Studies; BFA: Acting for Stage, Screen and New Media; Musical Theatre, Design, Sound Design, Stage Management, Technical Direction; Minor: Theatre, Comedy (Performance), Musical Theatre, Performing Arts Studies, Performing Leadership, Performing Social Change, Playwriting; MFA: Acting; Dramatic Writing Profile: Located in L.A., the top-ranked USC School of Dramatic Arts is a leader in dramatic arts training. The faculty and administration of the school are reimagining and redefining what it means to train artists in the 21st century without losing the rigorous foundational training that has been a hallmark of the school for over 75 years.

Contact: Sergio Ramirez 231-821-2744; sdainfo@usc.edu Dramaticarts.usc.edu

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN INDIANA 8600 University Blvd Evansville, IN 47712 Degrees: BS/BA: Theatre Arts (Performance, Design & Technology); Minor: Music Performance Profile: The department has five full-time faculty members who actively work in theatre. Facilities include a 299-seat mainstage teaching theatre (four-show season, including one musical) and a 100-seat black box (student-produced work).

One show during the year brings in professional actors, so the students in the production work under an Equity URTA contract and gain points toward Equity membership.

Contact: Eric Altheide 812-464-1750; eaaltheide@usi.edu www.usi.edu/liberal-arts/usi-theatre THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN MISSISSIPPI Department of Theatre 118 College Dr #5052 Hattiesburg, MS 39406 Degrees: BA: Theatre; BFA: Performance, Design/Technology; MFA: Performance, Directing, Costume Design, Scenic Design, Lighting and Sound Design Profile: The Department of Theatre offers undergraduate major and minor degrees and graduate programs in theatre. The program provides students with sound theory and intensive practical training as well as opportunities for extensive performance experiences and exposure to visiting professional artists. Scholarship opportunities are available for undergraduate majors.

Contact: Sandra Whittington 601-266-4161; Sandra.Whittington@usm.edu www.usm.edu/theatre UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE CHATTANOOGA Dept. 1401, Theatre Program 615 McCallie Ave Chattanooga, TN 37403 Degrees: BA: Theatre Profile: Located in the beautiful city of Chattanooga, UTC Theatre offers students an opportunity to work closely with faculty and staff in fully equipped shops and newly renovated performance facilities in an active, challenging, hands-on theatre program within the context of a liberal arts education. Our school is NASTaccredited.

Contact: Steve Ray 423-425-4374; Steve-Ray@utc.edu www.utc.edu/theatre

candidates for 2021-22) Profile: UTK is dedicated to creating rigorous educational programs that are fully integrated with the operations of a professional LORT theatre, the Clarence Brown Theatre. We believe in a dual mission, offering students the opportunity to study in the studio and then practice alongside first-rate professionals.

Contact: Laura Roark 865-974-6136; lroark2@utk.edu www.utk.edu UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA Department of Drama 109 Culbreth Rd Charlottesville, VA 22903 Degrees: BA: Drama; Minor: Dance or Drama; MFA: Acting, Lighting Design, Costume Design & Technology, Scenic Design & Technical Production Profile: Our undergraduate and graduate students learn from accomplished faculty and guest artists, as well as experience hands-on learning in our mainstage productions and dance concerts in our state-of-the-art facilities. Many of our MFA students gain professional experience working with Heritage Theatre Festival and Virginia Repertory Theatre.

Contact: Colleen Kelly 434-924-3326; drama@virginia.edu drama.virginia.edu

THEATREUSF

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA UPSTATE 800 University Way Spartanburg, SC 29303 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Production) Profile: Recognized both nationally and internationally, the USC Upstate theatre program makes an assortment of opportunities and experiences available. With annual opportunities to perform in London, theatre students learn production and performance skills that enrich their lives and prepare them for careers in professional, educational and community theatre.

Contact: Lee Neibert 864-503-5987; lneibert@uscupstate.edu www.uscupstate.edu/academics/college-ofarts-humanities-and-social-sciences/fine-artsand-communication-studies/theatre-program

usf.edu/arts/theatre-and-dance

UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE KNOXVILLE Department of Theatre 206 McClung Tower Knoxville, TN 37996 Degrees: BA: Theatre (General, Acting Concentration, Design & Technology Concentration); MFA: Acting, Costume Design, Lighting Design, Scene Design, Sound & Media Design (Please note that UTK will not be recruiting MFA

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2021 SETC College, University UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA Theatre Department 11000 University Pkwy Pensacola, FL 32514 Degrees: BA: Performance Studies, Arts Administration; BFA: Acting, Musical Theatre, Design Technology Profile: The UWF Theatre Department is an undergraduate-only program. Students work closely in classes and on the stage with faculty who provide training and experience to accelerate students to the next level. The quickly growing program affords the opportunity to hone your craft with industry professionals.

Contact: Charles Houghton 850-474-2149; choughton@uwf.edu www.uwf.edu/theatre UNIVERSITY OF WEST GEORGIA Department of Theatre Martha Munro and Old Auditorium 1600 Maple St Carrollton, GA 30118 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Acting, Design/ Technology, Playwriting, Dramaturgy, Stage Management); BFA: Acting, Design/Technology; Certificate: Musical Theatre Profile: The UWG Theatre Department trains and inspires students in all areas of theatre arts. Our accomplished faculty offers students a professional and supportive environment

UNIVERSITY OF WEST GEORGIA

THEATRE COMPANY DARING, DYNAMIC, DEFIANT: YOUR WORLD IS OUR STAGE.

MAKE UWG YOUR DESTINATION FOR THEATRE. NAST Accredited Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theatre BFA in Theatre, Acting Concentration BFA in Theatre, Design/Technology Concentration Musical Theatre Certificate FOR MORE INFORMATION 678-839-4700 or theatre@westga.edu westga.edu/theatre

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with outstanding facilities, technology and opportunities. Students regularly perform, design, manage and devise productions. The program often employs professional guest artists and is NAST-accredited.

Contact: Brad Darvas 678-839-4700; theatre@westga.edu www.westga.edu/~theatre VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY 1500 N Patterson St Valdosta, GA 31698 D e g re e s : BFA: Theatre (Perfor mance, P r o d u c t i o n , M u s i c a l T h e a t r e, T h e a t r e Management), Dance Profile: Our NAST-accredited program has a six-production season and produces Peach State Summer Theatre, “The Official Musical Theatre of the State of Georgia.” Scholarships are available; pre-screens, auditions and interviews for all degree programs via GetAcceptd.com.

Contact: Jacque Wheeler 229-253-2914; jwheeler@valdosta.edu www.valdosta.edu VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY 800 E Lancaster Ave Villanova, PA 19085 Degrees: MA: Theatre Profile: Our flexible, multi-faceted degree program prepares students from a variety of disciplines to succeed onstage, behind-thescenes and in the classroom. The comprehensive MA can be completed in two years full-time or at your own pace as a part-time student.

Scholarships and assistantships are available to qualified applicants.

Contact: Program Coordinator 610-519-4760; kimberly.reilly@villanova.edu theatre.villanova.edu VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY 922 Park Ave, PO Box 842524 Richmond, VA 23284 Degrees: BA: Theatre; BFA: Performance, Scene Design, Lighting Design, Costume Design, Stage Management; MFA: Pedagogy, Scene Design, Costume Design Profile: The theatre program at VCU offers pre-professional training in a liberal arts setting with highly qualified faculty and staff working professionally in their field.

Contact: Bonnie McCoy 804-828-1514; bsmccoy@vcu.edu arts.vcu.edu/theatre VIRGINIA TECH School of Performing Arts Theatre and Cinema 242 Henderson Hall E (0141) Blacksburg, VA 24061 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Design/ Tech, General), Cinema (Production and/or Studies); MFA: Theatre (Directing & Public Dialogue, Stage Management, Costume Design & Technology, Lighting Design, Scenography,

Technical Direction, Arts Leadership); Certificate: Arts Leadership Profile: Uncommon experiences and opportunities await in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.

Nationally recognized faculty and professional ties help make us a highly successful and innovative theatre and cinema program rooted in deep study combined with performance and production. Students benefit from a small, closeknit program within a large, comprehensive research university.

Contact: Deidra Hopkins 540-231-5335; performingarts@vt.edu www.performingarts.vt.edu WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY Box 7264 Reynolda Station Winston-Salem, NC 27109 Degrees: BA: Theatre Profile: With high academic standards, professional faculty and staff, numerous guest artists, exceptional production values, numerous production opportunities and a low student-teacher ratio, WFU equips theatre and dance students for future success in theatre or another profession. Study abroad, interdisciplinary programs and multiple major/minor courses of study offer additional value.

Contact: Nina Lucas 336-758-5294; theatre@wfu.edu www.wfu.edu/theatre WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY Maggie Allesee Department of Theatre and Dance 4841 Cass Ave Suite 3226 Detroit, MI 48202 Degrees: BA: Theatre; BS: Dance; BFA: Acting, Dance, Design & Technology; MFA: Performance, Scenic Design, Costume Design, Lighting Design, Theatre Management, Stage Management; MA: Arts Administration, Theatre & Dance Pedagogy Profile: Comprehensive, hands-on training in theatre and dance, with 19 productions in four venues on campus and throughout the Detroit metropolitan area. Students’ experiences include interaction with artists visiting Detroit’s five Broadway touring theatres, guest directors and choreographers working with the students, and master classes offered by renowned alumni.

Contact: 313-577-3508 theatreanddance.wayne.edu WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY School of Theatre & Dance Canaday Creative Arts Center PO Box 6111 Morgantown, WV 26506 Degrees: BA: Dance, Theatre; BFA: Acting, Musical Theatre, Design & Technology, Puppetry; MFA: Acting, Costume Design, Lighting Design, Scene Design, Technical Direction; Minor: Dance, Theatre Studies, Theatre Production Profile: WVU is a NAST-accredited program offering undergraduate and graduate training in

& Training Program Directory theatre and dance with a challenging production season that includes theatre, opera, musical theatre and dance. The faculty members are dedicated industry professionals teaching a rigorous curriculum in modern and well-equipped facilities. WVU is a member of URTA. Contact: Joshua B. Williamson 304-293-2020; theatre@mail.wvu.edu theatre.wvu.edu WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE 59 College Ave Buckhannon, WV 26201 Degrees: BA: Musical Theatre, Theatre Arts (Acting/Directing, Technical Theatre/Design), Pre-Drama Therapy, Arts Administration/Theatre Profile: Freshmen regularly perform on the mainstage. We offer personalized classroom instruction, and a major emphasis on marketing skills ensures that our graduates have an edge.

Contact: Thomas Schoffler 304-473-8810; schoffler_t@wvwc.edu www.wvwc.edu WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY School of Stage and Screen 389 Centennial Dr Belk 278 Cullowhee, NC 28723 Degrees: BA: Stage & Screen (General Theatre); BFA: Theatre (Acting, Musical Theatre, Entertainment & Design Technology), Film & Television Production Profile: At WCU, immerse yourself in dynamic academic programs that offer a variety of undergraduate degree concentrations and minors. You’ll combine your chosen discipline’s concepts and theories with hands-on experience, both inside and outside the classroom, through faculty-student collaborations, internships, cooperative work experiences and productions – both onstage and in film.

Contact: Claire Eye 828-227-7491; sas@wcu.edu stageandscreen.wcu.edu WESTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre and Dance 101 Browne Hall Macomb, IL 61455 D e g re e s : BA: Theatre (Perfor mance, Production/Design); BFA: Musical Theatre; MFA: Acting, Directing, Scenic Design, Lighting Design, Costume Design; Minor: Stage Combat, Dance, Theatre Profile: WIU creates 15 to 20 productions a year.

Our liberal arts and pre-professional programs are led by dedicated and experienced faculty in acting, movement, dance and production, and are fully NAST-accredited. WIU serves approximately 10,000 students at its residential campus in Macomb, IL. Contact: 309-298-1543; theatre@wiu.edu www.wiu.edu/cofac/theatre

WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre & Dance 1906 College Heights Blvd, #71086 Bowling Green, KY 42101-1086 Degrees: BA: Theatre, Dance; BFA: Performing Arts (Acting, Music Theatre, Theatre, Theatre Design & Technology) Profile: WKU’s Department of Theatre & Dance offers conservatory-style training in a liberal arts environment.

Contact: David Young 270-745-5845; theatreanddance@wku.edu www.wku.edu/theatre-and-dance WICHITA STATE UNIVERSITY 1845 Fairmont, Box 153 Wichita, KS 67260 Degrees: BA: Theatre, Musical Theatre, Dance; BFA: Dance, Theatre (Performance, Design & Technical Theatre, Musical Theatre); Minor: Theatre, Musical Theatre, Dance; Certificate: Commercial Dance, Directing, Physical Performance Studies, Stage Management Profile: Student-centered, hands-on undergraduate training for people pursuing careers in the arts and entertainment industry as performers, directors, designers, dancers, choreographers, technicians and stage managers. Students work with faculty as assistants and junior colleagues. Our productions are created to provide professional-level experience in all areas of study.

Contact: Linda Starkey 316-978-3360; PerformingArts@wichita.edu Wichita.edu/performingarts WILKES UNIVERSITY 84 W South St Wilkes-Barre, PA 18766 Degrees: BA: Theatre Design & Technology, Theatre Arts (Acting/Directing, Design/Technical, Dance); BFA: Musical Theatre Profile: The theatre program at Wilkes is a preprofessional theatre training program committed to our small class sizes, “hands-on” training, and our mission to create an accomplished, focused theatre artist. Our program produces four mainstage productions each year, two musicals and two non-musicals, plus multiple black box senior capstone productions.

Contact: Jon Liebetrau 570-408-4442; jon.liebetrau@wilkes.edu www.wilkes.edu

WINTHROP UNIVERSITY Department of Theatre and Dance 115 Johnson Hall Rock Hill, SC 29733 Degrees: BA: Theatre Performance, Theatre Design/Tech, Theatre Education, Dance, Dance Education, Musical Theatre Profile: Fostering students’ aesthetic, intellectual and creative development within the context of a liberal arts education, we afford opportunities for students to develop significant competency in one emphasis in theatre or dance. Production program includes 10-12 shows per year, including musicals. Scholarships are awarded annually based on audition/portfolio review.

Contact: Daniel Gordon 803-323-2287 theatredance@winthrop.edu www.winthrop.edu/cvpa/theatredance THE YORK THEATRE Musical Theatre Training Program 619 Lexington Ave New York, NY 10022 Degrees: Winter Intensive for College Students; Summer Intensive for 6th to 12th Grade Students Profile: Off-Broadway’s York Theatre company offers a Musical Theatre Training Program drawing from its vast network of connections to NYC’s most successful theatre artists as teachers and guest artists. We offer the unique opportunity of classes and showcase performances on an actual offBroadway stage near the heart of NYC’s theatre district.

Contact: Michael Unger 212-935-5824 x220; munger@yorktheatre.org www.yorktheatre.org YOUNG HARRIS COLLEGE Department of Theatre 1 College St Young Harris, GA 30582 Degrees: BFA: Musical Theatre; BA: Theatre Performance, Theatrical Design & Production; Minor: Theatre Profile: Low student-to-faculty ratios, personal attention and abundant production opportunities are key to our program’s success. We aim to turn our students of today into the working theatre professionals of tomorrow.

Contact: Chris Crawford 706-379-5144; cbcrawford@yhc.edu www.yhc.edu

WILLIAM CAREY UNIVERSITY 710 William Carey Pkwy Hattiesburg, MS 39401 Degrees: BA: Theatre (Performance, Design & Technology, Musical Theatre) Profile: The WCU Theatre offers quality instruction and training in a caring environment.

Small classes and close faculty-student relationships make individual attention possible.

Contact: Tim Matheny 601-318-6521; thecom@wmcarey.edu www.wmcarey.edu

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Audition for Graduate School Programs in Fall 2021

8th Annual

LiNK AUDITIONS & INTERVIEWS SETC and USITT partner each fall to bring graduate theatre degree programs together with people considering options for advanced education in one convenient, affordable location where they can conduct interviews and exchange information. Discover your dream graduate school or recruit talented candidates.

LiNK auditions and interviews will be offered in: acting/voice/musical theatre, arts management, costume design, costume technology, digital media design, directing, lighting design, lighting technology, makeup/wig design, production management, scenic art, scenic design, stage automation, stage management, stage properties, sound design and technical direction.

Schools that recruited at the 2020 LiNK included: Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University Atlantic Acting School Boston University California Institute of the Arts Carnegie Mellon University Circle in the Square Theatre School College-Conservatory of Music (CCM), University of Cincinnati DePaul University, The Theatre School Florida Atlantic University Florida State University Hollins University Indiana University Kent State University Le Moyne College The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts Louisiana State University Louisiana Tech University Mary Baldwin University + American Shakespeare Center Michigan State University

Minnesota State University, Mankato The Neighborhood Playhouse New York Film Academy The Ohio State University Oklahoma City University Purdue University Rose Bruford College of Theatre & Performance San Diego State University Savannah College of Art & Design School of Drama, The New School Southern Illinois University Stella Adler Studio of Acting Texas State University Texas Tech University Touchstone Theatre/ Moravian College Tulane University The University of Alabama University of California- San Diego University of Connecticut University of Georgia

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign University of Maryland University of Memphis University of Missouri- Kansas City University of Nebraska- Lincoln University of Nevada, Las Vegas University of New Orleans University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of North Carolina at Greensboro University of North Carolina School of the Arts University of South Dakota University of Southern Mississippi University of Texas at Austin Villanova University Virginia Commonwealth University Virginia Tech Wayne State University West Virginia University Yale School of Drama

More info: www.setc.org/link

2021 SETC College, University & Training Program Directory Published by Southern Theatre Magazine of the Southeastern Theatre Conference 5710 W. Gate City Blvd., Suite K, Box 186 Greensboro, NC 27407 336-265-6148 • info@setc.org • www.setc.org Follow SETC on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter

OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS THROUGH SETC Apply for a Scholarship SETC awards more than $15,000 in scholarships to individuals pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in theatre.

SETC’s Scholarship/Awards Fund supports each award. Apply now for 2020-2021 scholarships.

More info: www.setc.org/scholarshipsawards

Audition for Graduate or Undergraduate School at the SETC Convention Students seeking admission or transfer to graduate or undergraduate theatre schools can audition and participate in design-tech interviews for multiple programs in one virtual location March 3 - 7 at the 2021 SETC Virtual Convention.

Application deadline is Feb. 11, 2021, at 11:59 p.m. ET. More info: convention.setc.org/auditionsinterviews

Learn About Schools at Education Expo Looking for a school? Find information and meet representatives from countless theatre schools in the Virtual Education Expo at the 2021 SETC Virtual Convention.

More info: convention.setc.org

UNIVERSITY OF WEST GEORGIA

THEATRE COMPANY DARING, DYNAMIC, DEFIANT: YOUR WORLD IS OUR STAGE.

2020 2021

SEASON

P L A Y W E S T. NAST Accredited Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theatre BFA in Theatre, Acting Concentration BFA in Theatre, Design/Technology Concentration Musical Theatre Certificate

• Access to professional theatre artists • Access to industry standard software in theatrical sound, lighting, costume, and scenic design • Performance and design opportunities starting in freshman year • Design lab, lighting lab, sound recording studio, large scene shop, and new costume shop • Internship programs (local, national, international)

FOR MORE INFORMATION 678-839-4700 or theatre@westga.edu

WESTGA.EDU/THEATRE

• Practical experience in all facets of theatrical production • Student scripts from playwriting course are produced in regular season • Student-directed and designed theatre productions • Conference participation and travel opportunities • Strong alumni contacts

MAKE UWG YOUR DESTINATION FOR THEATRE.

C O L L A B O R A T • BA in Theatre with and Production E Performance Concentrations . • Annual Production in London at the International Youth C Arts Festival • Experiential in R State of the ArtLearning Facilities E • Acting Scholarships and Assistantships A TechnicalAvailable T information, please contact: E ForLeemore Neibert, Director of Theatre at . (864) 503-5987 or lneibert@uscupstate.edu 800 University Way Spartanburg, SC 29303 C O N T R I B U T E

www.uscupstate.edu/theatre 34 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

(Continued from Page 31)

at 4.5% and pays the loan back in 10 years,

The common factor linking federal and

the cost of the interest is $6,019.27. Using

private loans is that they charge interest.

the same calculator, you will find that if a

Few students entering college understand

student borrows $35,000 at 4.5% interest

how interest is calculated. It’s crucial to

and pays it back in 20 years, the cost of the

know this information to anticipate the

interest is nearly three times that amount:

amount of money you will need to repay.

$17,916.10. Private loans, which often come

Collegecalc.org includes a calculator that

with higher interest rates, can add even

will estimate the total cost of a loan as well

more to the total price of an education.

as monthly payments. For example, if a stu-

Once you analyze the impact of taking

dent borrows $25,000 (in subsidized loans)

out loans to pay for your education, you

BIGGEST MISTAKES STUDENTS MAKE RESEARCHING SCHOOLS “The biggest mistake I see is depending on people to lead you along. You have to be proactive. Do your research and be ready with questions to ask your admissions and financial aid officers.” - Paul Crook, associate professor of theatre, University of South Carolina Aiken “Simply not asking enough questions.

Make us look for answers within our own university.” - Kelly Berry, director of theatre, Georgia Southern University “They only see the sticker price of a college and don’t further investigate other sources of aid.” - Jacob Browne, director of admissions, Eckerd College “Not asking questions! There are so many amazing people willing to help.

Ask as many questions as you need.”

- Kristen Bennett, visit/performing arts recruitment coordinator, Alma College “Focusing on the award amount and not the overall program costs. Always reach out to programs directly.” - Eric van Baars, director of the School of Theatre and Dance, Kent State University

Kelly Berry Georgia Southern University

Kristen Bennett Alma College

NEGOTIATING AID “The biggest mistake families make regarding financial aid is not applying. You may be eligible for assistance and not even know it!

With many programs, the financial aid package isn’t completely determined until after admission is offered. Don’t let concerns over tuition keep you from applying and finding out what opportunities you could have.” - Mica Harrison Loosemore, director of recruitment and enrollment, Carnegie Mellon University School of Drama

“They don’t ask for an increase. If a student wants to attend a specific school, oftentimes students can negotiate to get a better offer and that will be enough to allow them to attend the college of their choice.” - Tara Warfield, chair, Department of Theatre and Musical Theatre, Shorter University “Students and parents just take the first offer or don’t bother applying at all.” - Natalie Robin, head, Theatre Design and Technology Department, University of the Arts APPLYING FOR SCHOLARSHIPS “Not doing a FAFSA and not applying for specific scholarships. Nearly all of our

Mica H. Loosemore Carnegie Mellon Uniiversity

Richard Dunham Radford University

can better determine how large a role they

amount of debt they take on.

should play in your financial aid plan. Noel

“Student loans can be part of an over-

Rennerfeldt, an associate professor of sce-

all financial aid package if it can allow

nic design at Austin Peay State University,

attendance at a school that is a good fit,”

says students should guard against “tak-

he said. “An education is an investment in

ing out higher loan amounts than what is

yourself. Conversely, too much debt can be

needed.”

debilitating. Don’t be lured into a program

Daniel Gordon, chair of the Theatre and

you cannot afford. The best program in

Dance Department at Winthrop University

the nation is the one where you will fully

in South Carolina, advises that students

engage and distinguish yourself, and this

look for “a reasonable balance” in the

is based more on you, not the reputation of

AU students studying in London

WHEN SEEKING FINANCIAL AID awards require submission of a FAFSA whether a family needs or doesn’t need financial aid. At the end of the recruiting season, we actually had more scholarship funds that we could have handed out to incoming freshmen that went unused.”

- Richard Dunham, chair, Department of Theatre and Cinema, Radford University “Students neglect to search additional scholarships offered by various theatre organizations. They need to be proactive to seek those opportunities.” - Alan YeongMarcello, professor of theatre, University of West Georgia “Continue to apply for scholarships after your freshman year. Every year, apply for new ones as they apply to you.” - Jeni Parker, assistant director, School of Theatre and Dance, East Carolina University “They don’t apply to everything that’s out there. We have so many students that participate in our productions that could have received an award had they only auditioned. If a student sings, audition for the music department also. Stack up as many scholarships as possible. The SETC

scholarships have far fewer applicants than they should. Students aren’t taking advantage of all opportunities.” - Gregory A. Mach, associate professor of theatre, West Virginia Wesleyan College “Not doing enough research, and not starting early enough looking for nonuniversity-specific scholarship opportunities.” - Tom Burch, associate professor of scenic design, University of North Carolina at Charlotte “Never tell a department you are auditioning for that this is the only school you are applying to. Scholarships are used to attract students, not to reward loyalty.”

- Daniel Gordon, chair, Theatre and Dance Department, Winthrop University COMPLETING PAPERWORK “Not filling out the proper forms on time.” Chris Flynn, theatre and speech instructor, Pearl River Community College “Not filing state financial statements required for financial aid.” - Brian Jones, chair, Department of Theatre, Dance and Performance, Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Join our theatre family and learn to become an entrepreneur in film and theatre. ➞ 120 films a year ➞ 10 stage plays a year Performance and study opportunities include Shakespeare’s Globe in London (pictured above), the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland and 2nd City in Chicago.

Learn more and apply now at:

asbury.edu/Theatre Contact: jim.shores@asbury.edu

Jeni Parker East Carolina University

Gregory A. Mach West Virginia Wesleyan College

Chris Flynn Pearl River Community College

Brian Jones Indiana University of Pennsylvania Winter 2021 x Southern Theatre x 35

Noel Rennerfeldt Austin Peay State University

THEATRE & DANCE

STUDY ACTING, DANCE AND PRODUCTION DESIGN WITH A BACHELOR OF ARTS IN THEATRE OR DANCE For more information: Program of Theatre & Dance at the George Washington University Corcoran School of the Arts & Design 814 20th St NW, 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20052 202.994.8072 onstage@gwu.edu 202.994.8072 • WASHINGTON, DC • ctad@gwu.edu

36 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

Daniel Gordon Winthrop University

Ryan Long Huntington University

Anna Filippo Berry College

the program. Take responsibility for your

marketing, etc.),” said Anna Filippo, direc-

education.”

tor of theatre at Berry College in Georgia.

Others also recommend being strategic

In addition, students often can find paid

in deciding what you can afford. Ryan

work in residence halls, admissions, the

Long, chair of the Department of Theatre

library or other offices, such as study abroad

Arts at Huntington University in Indiana,

or university communications. While jobs

noted that borrowing a large amount for

on campus often do not pay as well as off-

college can actually limit students’ options

campus jobs, they have the added benefits

after graduation.

of easy accessibility and an employer who

“Don’t let student loan debt turn your

understands class schedules.

dream into a nightmare,” she said. “Gradu-

FINANCE YOUR FUTURE

ating with as little debt as possible (prefer-

So, what are the benefits of investing

ably none!) will allow you to take a low-

time and money in a college degree? In

paying gig that you love and really want to

“Measuring the Value of Education,” Elka

accept, rather than your job opportunities

Torpey writes, “It’s hard to quantify the

being dictated by the student loan bill you

full value of an education. But U.S. Bureau

have to pay each month.”

of Labor Statistics (BLS) data consistently

WORK-STUDY CAN HELP

show that, in terms of dollars, education

Another way to help pay for your edu-

makes sense.” Statistics reveal that, on aver-

cation is through a federal work-study or

age, students who have a college degree

campus job. Federal work-study jobs are

earn more than those who have only a high

typically offered as part of the student’s

school diploma.

aid package and are available on both the

For theatre practitioners, higher educa-

undergraduate and graduate levels. Other

tion training provides an opportunity to

campus jobs can also provide a source of

learn new skills and hone your craft, as

income.

well as to make discoveries about yourself

Often, students can get theatre experi-

and your abilities. A college or university

ence through work-study. For example, a

education can lead you to career paths that

theatre student might be offered a position

you have yet to imagine. Taking the time to

as a house manager or usher, or a job in the

figure out how to finance this venture can

scene or costume shop, the box office or

help ensure your future success. Get started

marketing. Some schools also offer jobs not

on your planning today to help make your

associated with work-study that allow stu-

theatre dreams a reality tomorrow. n

dents to be paid as they learn about theatre.

“Instead of work-study, we offer paid positions in our theatre company, learning the skill sets that help our students get paid summer professional theatre work (carpenter, box office, stitcher, recruiting,

Amy Cuomo is a professor of theatre at the University of West Georgia. Her short plays have been produced in several states and her play Happy was a finalist for the Heideman Award.

start a movement

Study Theatre at SMU

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY OF IN-DEMAND THEATRE ARTISTS

The SMU Meadows Division of Theatre alumni do it all: perform on Broadway, star in TV shows and movies, start groundbreaking theatre companies, write award-winning plays, push the limits of directing and design, and continue to shape America’s artistic landscape. SMU Meadows Theatre is a

B.F.A. Theatre, Acting Specialization B.F.A. Theatre, Theatre Studies Specialization M.F.A. Acting M.F.A. Stage Design

nationally respected conservatory program within a strong liberal arts framework. Learn more at smu.edu/theatre.

Southern Methodist University (SMU) will not discriminate in any employment practice, education program, education activity, or admissions on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status. SMU’s commitment to equal opportunity includes nondiscrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. The Executive Director for Access and Equity/Title IX1 Coordinator is designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies, including the prohibition of sex discrimination under Title IX. The Executive Director/Title IX Coordinator may be reached at the Perkins Administration Building, Room 204, 6425 Boaz Lane, Dallas, TX 75205, 214-768-3601, accessequity@smu.edu. Inquiries regarding the application of Title IX may also be directed to the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights of the U.S. Department of Education. 1 Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, 20 U.S.C. §§ 1681-1688.

VIRTUAL LESSONS How Online Teaching Innovations Are Transforming Theatre Education

by Eric Eidson

A

At the start of 2020, most theatre educators didn’t expect their classes and extracurricular programs would ever go online. By the end of 2020, most theatre classes and programs were forced to adapt to an online setting in some capacity. While the sudden transition to online learning due to COVID-19 caught theatre educators and students by surprise, educators have since developed and advanced their online offerings, finding ways to turn this obstacle into an opportunity. This article highlights a variety of theatre educators and practitioners who found innovative ways to adapt their theatre programs to online teaching, learning lessons along the way that will stay with them after students return in person to the classroom.

‘Environment’ Design: A New Way of Seeing the Roles of Theatre Designers

Once the shutdowns began, Stephen Judd, head of design and technology at the University of Southern Mississippi, knew that the fall season would have to take place virtually – but he had no idea that changes made for the pandemic would have a significant, lasting impact on his department.

Stephen Judd University of Southern Mississippi

Because Judd’s program is an applied program, design courses are directly linked to the productions.

So, Judd, his colleagues and his students quickly began incorporating virtual design elements into their scenic and lighting areas after the pandemic hit.

“The MFA scenic design graduate assistants who normally run our props, paint and carpentry studios used part of that time to experiment on virtual tools,

In this scene from a virtual production of Describe the Night by Rajiv Joseph, the actors are not in the space. They actually are in separate virtual isolation pods in the University of Southern Mississippi’s black box theatre. “We use OBS to ‘insert’ them into the digitally rendered environment. The lighting is both digital (in the rendering) and actual (some lighting instruments in the pod and some lighting from our grid overhead),” says Stephen Judd, head of design and technology at USM. “This furniture piece is real. Some furniture pieces are digitally rendered and inserted over green or blue screen pieces of furniture. That also allows us to use cubes to place actors on the edges of platforms.”

including the use of green screen and programming,” Judd said. “We converted our budget for hard scenery

safely work,” Judd said. “The cubes make use of

into money for equipment.”

lighting that can be controlled by a lighting designer

Throughout the season, the complexity and range of virtual design opportunities continued to grow.

(in addition to computer-generated lighting programmed into the virtual environments), and large-

“Our productions have moved from the simple

screen monitors so actors can see themselves and the

Zoom-type production for Revolutionists to computer-

rest of the cast in the virtual space. We now view the

generated, semi-static environments into which we

lighting and scenic teams as ‘environment designers’

inserted actors for 39 Steps,” Judd said. “We will have

in which the roles and processes are different than

a fully articulated kinetic virtual world into which the

that of embodied theatre.”

actors will be fully inserted in a 3-D spatial environment for Describe the Night (above right).”

Judd and his team repurposed their performance space and went on to redefine their roles as designers.

The transition from embodied theatre to virtual theatre required a new set of skills for Judd and his

Opposite page: The University of Southern Missisippi transformed its black box theatre into a virtual studio, with 10 virtual isolation pods where actors can perform their roles.

fellow designers – and, as he notes, that changed the dynamics of faculty-student interactions.

“We have turned our black box theatre into a vir-

“What we have learned through this is that the

tual studio in which we have built 10 isolation pods

roles of student and teacher have become more

with green or blue backgrounds in which actors can

democratized in our organization,” Judd said. “Much Winter 2021 x Southern Theatre x 39

‘Why didn’t we look for these partnerships before?’

- Trent Blanton, Rider University

of the knowledge for programming and virtual world

video-streaming platform. While some educators

building has been supplied by the students. The faculty

viewed Zoom and other video-streaming platforms

have contributed their ability to marshal resources,

as a means to an end, Trent Blanton, an associate

organize time and space, and, to some extent, con-

professor of theatre at Rider University in New Jersey,

tinuing to maintain close attention to developing a

asked himself, “How do we utilize this medium to

consistent aesthetic and style for each production – in

its maximum capacity? How does this become a tool

other words, to keep the art in the foreground.”

of liberation?”

What began as a creative design solution for a vir-

Rather than simply adapting the usual curricu-

tual season quickly grew into an innovation with mass

lum online, Blanton sought out new opportunities

appeal for Judd and his program. Judd anticipates

that could only be available online. Blanton had

their work with virtual studios and “environment

three primary initiatives: bringing in guest artists

design” is only just beginning

and casting directors for virtual events, developing

“Our intent is to continue to pursue this kind of

classes specifically designed for Zoom, and fostering

production, as we believe that, even when we return

collaborative relationships with other theatre artists

to [face-to-face learning], virtual scenography will

and institutions.

become part of our permanent and useful vocabulary

Among Blanton’s many virtual guest artists at

for storytelling,” he said. “We are beginning to con-

Rider University were two casting agents who shared

figure our design program into something that looks

their delight in hosting auditions from the comfort

more like a virtual studio and have applied for a grant

of their homes.

that we hope will enable us to turn this into a class

“We had two people from New York come in and

for actors, directors and designers in the fall of 2021.”

do live auditions with our students this summer,”

Acting: Utilizing Zoom as a Liberating Tool

Blanton said. “Both of [them were] saying, ‘You better

After nearly a year of online teaching, most

get used to this because we like this, because we get

educators are well-versed in Zoom or some other

to see much more diverse groups of people. We don’t

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www.iwu.edu/theatre 40 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

The Life, Fall 2019

have to rent space, and we get to sit in our pajamas

online teaching methods last summer, Blanton and

downstairs.’”

Clark Atlanta University professor Eve Graves cre-

Blanton also viewed this time as an opportunity

ated a partnership that provides students at their

to prepare students for the changing landscape of the

respective universities with a greater diversity of

theatre industry. Noting the trend toward online audi-

online classes and other opportunities.

tions that was occurring even before COVID-19 and

“We met with our deans, who wholeheartedly

the need for students to be educated in this area, Blan-

supported this unique artistic collaboration, and then

ton took advantage of the moment and developed a

we started defining the parameters of the project,”

new course, Advanced Performance Workshop: Self-Tape

Graves said.

Technology and Online Zoom Technology Techniques, that

Theatre students at Rider University will have the

specifically addresses self-taping for auditions and

opportunity this spring to take a virtual class taught

how to maximize the technology available on Zoom.

by Graves on African American Performance Tradi-

Within this course, students rehearsed, recorded and

tions – a course not previously available at Rider.

polished audition samples for plays and musicals.

Meanwhile, Blanton, Graves and two other professors

Blanton even arranged musical theatre duets by

are leading a virtual class in self-taping and musical

having each student record their parts separately (to

theatre auditioning techniques for students from

the same track) and then combining both parts in edit-

Rider and Clark Atlanta, a historically Black univer-

ing. He encouraged his students to “acquaint yourself

sity (HBCU) in Georgia that doesn’t currently offer a

with what is out there technologically.”

musical theatre program.

Performance: Embracing Online

As part of their partnership, Graves and Blanton

Opportunities for Diversity

are working together on a long-range musical the-

The move to online classes has also created new

atre performance project incorporating faculty and

opportunities for institutions to link and share

students from both schools, which will culminate in

resources. After meeting at an SETC webinar on

a joint senior showcase.

‘We are exploding academic theatre silos.’

- Eve Graves, Clark Atlanta University

Vastly different.

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Winter 2021 x Southern Theatre x 41

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42 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

“We are exploding academic theatre

As Blanton developed his online cur-

silos by using the internet to create lifelong

riculum, he had a mantra he followed and

artistic partnerships,” said Graves, chair

now offers as advice to other theatre educa-

of the Department of Theatre and Com-

tors: “You have to kill your sacred cows. It’s

munication Studies at Clark Atlanta. “Our

about throwing everything out. Nothing is

goal is to encourage students from diverse

sacred anymore.”

lived experiences and narratives to work

Guest Artists: Expanding the

together, creating new forms of art and

Teaching Universe

new media.”

In addition to individual partnerships

Graves noted that her students “chose

with other schools, many universities

to attend an HBCU to study theatre with

are expanding students’ online learning

the goal of performing and learning about

through the use of guest artists.

diverse performing traditions. Our stu-

David Kaye, a

dents are also searching for an ‘authentic’

professor of theatre

performance experience where they aren’t

at the University of

judged or rejected for a part because they

New Hampshire,

don’t meet stereotypical assumptions of

went a step beyond

identity. Through this project, we have

simply inviting a

learned that Rider University students are

few guest artists

seeking similar experiences. Both student

to campus. He

groups volunteered for this project because

helped create the

they wanted to collaborate with other art-

Association for

ists – the art comes first. This project has

Theatre in Higher

truly allowed us to create an organic, holis-

Education (ATHE) Volunteer Guest Artist

tic performance experience that privileges

program, which includes 52 teachers

all student artists.”

from around the world offering a total

David Kaye University of New Hampshire

Providing students at both schools with

of 57 wide-ranging workshops on topics

access to diverse dramatic texts through the

from Meisner, Chekhov, Stanislavsky and

partnership “creates a safe space to discuss

Laban to film, voice-over, applied theatre

issues that we often feel uncomfortable

techniques and more.

discussing in ‘mixed’ company – nontra-

“I realized how exciting it would be to

ditional casting, body norming, colorism,

bring in these amazing teachers for a single

etc.,” Graves said. “We (students and

class workshop, [teachers] I would never

faculty) truly want to work together, learn

have the travel and expense funds needed

about each other, and authentically create.

to bring … to New Hampshire,” he said.

This has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.”

In choosing guest artists from the program for his students, “I sought out

Blanton is also excited about the oppor-

presenters who had expertise in areas that

tunities created by the partnership, noting

I did not,” Kaye said. “I think I learned as

that “it’s a partnership for the whole uni-

much as my students did.”

versity. It became about sharing resources.”

While Kaye initially pursued the idea

He says that rethinking traditional

because courses had to be online, he plans

teaching methods has become critical today,

to continue inviting virtual guest artists

as schools respond to both the pandemic

when students return to in-person learning.

and the movement to end systemic racism

“The idea of bringing in a guest artist

in theatre. Noting that the partnership

for a virtual workshop will be something I

between Rider and Clark Atlanta will have

plan to do from now on,” he said. “Though

a meaningful and lasting impact on both

it has its limitations, being able to overcome

schools, Blanton asked, “Why didn’t we

geographic and financial barriers makes

look for these partnerships before?”

this such an exciting possibility.”

SOUTHERN MISS

THEATRE

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Online Production: Collaboration

ing from. We had people tuning in from

Across the Continents

all across the world! The chat transcript

When Christie

became a second layer of performance as

Connolly, program

audience members shared their feelings

director and assis-

about the characters they loved and hated.

tant professor of

In theatre, we’ve always researched audi-

theatre at Union

ence response, whether it’s studying physi-

College in Ken-

ological responses or measuring attitudes

tucky, set out to

through surveys. The live chat allowed

p ro d u c e a p l a y

me to see exactly which moments spurred

with students during COVID-19,

44 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

Christie Connolly Union College

certain reactions from the audience.”

Connolly’s experience with audience

she faced unusual

interaction highlights a unique advantage

circumstances: cast and crew members

of performing online. Rather than solicit-

participating from three continents.

ing audience members for feedback after

“At Union College, we have a large

a performance, she was able to engage

international student population,” she said.

her audience during the show. Audience

“Due to COVID, many of them were either

members had the opportunity to utilize

delayed flying back to the States or were

the chat feature or not, so their engagement

not able to return at all. Being involved

experience was customizable in that sense.

in the production helped them feel con-

Design: Fighting ‘Screen Fatigue’

nected to the school and their peers. Two

For Dahlia Al-Habieli, an assistant

actresses auditioned while they were still

professor of theatrical design at Albright

in Brazil. One actor was in Dublin, Ireland.

College in Pennsylvania, the key to keep-

One of our sound crew was in Israel, and

ing students engaged has been find-

our marketing manager was in Colombia.”

ing ways to move

Connolly chose to produce an online

beyond the screen

play written specifically for Zoom, Time

to make learning

Zones Apart, written by this author and

more active and

Lauren Lynch.

interactive.

“When I was searching for a play to pro-

“Screen fatigue

duce, I knew I wanted to do something that

is real,” she said.

fit the format of a digital space – something

“My students and I

that was written to be performed via video

had constant head-

chat,” Connolly said. “Ignoring the digital

aches by the third

element felt inauthentic and forced.”

week of remote

Dahlia Al-Habieli Albright College

With an international cast and crew

learning. Audio and podcast content as

came an international audience. To reach

well as tactile, hands-on assignments and

them virtually, Connolly said, “We used

assignments designed to get everyone up

OnTheStage [onthestage.com], a live-

and moving broke up the relentlessness of

stream specifically for virtual theatre. This

Zoom University.”

was fabulous because patrons didn’t need

Al-Habieli utilizes a number of engaging

a Zoom account to log in. They received a

resources in her classroom: demo videos,

link to a web page where our Zoom show

interactive teaching/learning tools, and

was livestreaming. I enjoyed the live chat

sharing of 2-D and 3-D work. She found

feature. During the performance, audi-

that a multi-modal approach to content

ence members could create a user name

delivery helped keep students engaged

and respond to the show. In pre-show

in online learning, and so each element of

announcements we asked the audience to

her course content was offered in at least

type in the chat where they were watch-

two modes. For example, all play texts also

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from Learn ryindust ced en experi and faculty tists. r guest a

One of the creative activities that Al-Habieli developed for online instruction during the pandemic uses Google Slides. Students choose a room in their homes to recreate scenes from plays studied in class and take photos of their work. Students can comment on other students’ scenes, thus creating a virtual studio.

46 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

had accompanying audio performances,

developed an activity called “Diorama

assigned podcasts came with transcripts,

of a Spiritual Space.” In this activity, stu-

and assignment criteria and course updates

dents must find a box (of any size) and

were delivered both in writing and with

design/build a spiritual space (however

accompanying video guides.

they interpret that meaning). The students

Most notably, Al-Habieli developed a

must include a tiny person to represent

creative activity entirely through Google

themselves and serve as an indicator of the

Drive.

design scale.

“Google Slides has become an invalu-

Another interactive online teaching

able tool in all of my courses,” she said. “In

resource that Al-Habieli recommended is

the “Play in a Room” assignment (above),

scenicandlighting.com. Although compo-

all students are granted editing permis-

nents of this website require a subscription

sion and linked to a single Slides file that

to access, free resources include a color lab,

contains the upcoming presentation assign-

gobo lab, dance lighting lab, virtual swatch

ment criteria. All students must create or

book and vintage lighting instruments.

insert their work into that file. Students can

Playwriting: No Shame Online

chat with each other and comment on each

Theatre programs often foster an envi-

other’s work. In this way, Google Slides

ronment of creation and exploration.

functions as an open virtual studio space

Without in-person learning, is there still

that also serves as the single file screen

a “space” where students can collaborate

shared on presentation day.”

and create with one another without the

As a way of getting students to think and

restrictions of class or scripted plays? Taylor

design in an actual 3-D space, Al-Habieli

Gruenloh, an assistant teaching professor

Home of

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at the University of Missouri - Science &

feeling good is a hard thing to accomplish.”

Technology, may have found the answer:

Gruenloh also developed Stepping into

an online version

a Phantom Punch, a choose-your-own-

of No Shame Theatre.

adventure Zoom play. “Participating in

In No Shame

theatre through something like Zoom is

Theatre, a theatre

very unordinary, right?” he said. “Even if

opportunity devel-

you’re an actor, writer or audience member.

oped in 1986 by

So, we’ve embraced the unordinary-ness of

Hollins Univer-

it. Zoom is a virtual meeting room, so we’re

sity Playwright’s

exploring how to produce stories that hap-

Lab director Todd Ristau, playwrights and performers are given five minutes

Taylor Gruenloh University of Missouri - Science & Technology

pen in multiple rooms at the same time, to capture an immersive feeling.”

Lighting Design/Stage Management: Embracing Technology

to perform original work. As the name

Tony Penna, an associate professor of

suggests, there is “no shame” in present-

theatre and lighting designer at Clemson

ing work at any stage of the development

University, created a home light lab in

process and covering any topic. While No

order to continue teaching lighting to

Shame is typically offered as an in-person event, Gruenloh decided to bring the event online and expand his base of performers and audience members.

“No Shame Theatre: Online Edition has bridged current students and recent graduates in a way that I didn’t see coming,” Gruenloh said. “Those who graduated during COVID didn’t get the closure that comes with ending an academic theatre career as a student. Everything is unceremonious right now and sharing an experience like No Shame Theatre, the rawest kind of theatre, is an important communal experience that feels good. And right now,

Tony Penna has created a small-scale stage in his home office, with an HD webcam set up on the stage to give students a close-up view of the lighting. For a model, he uses both a 12" posable manikin and a life-size wig head to demonstrate such topics as the McCandless method of lighting the stage and additive color mixing.

48 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

McKee portrayed “Brad” in Rocky Horror Picture Show, Warehouse Theatre, Greenville, South Carolina.

Theatre is such a personal career path. It requires emotional availability and knowledge of self. Piedmont’s advantage is that professors zero in on what makes students themselves and focus on cultivating and building that up. —Jacob McKee

Named one of “8 youn g actors to w atch in Atl anta” —Atla nta Journa l-

Constitutio

The Piedmont Advantage

n

Photo credit Wallace Krebs

Jacob McKee ’15 Theatre Major

McKee became the person he “was meant to be” at Piedmont. He left with not only a degree, but also compassion, empathy, and the belief that making art is important. He has now formed his own production company, The Make Mom Proud Project, and is currently shooting his first short film, “Space Mom.” At Piedmont College, soon to be Piedmont University, students receive personal attention, are passionate about their craft, and emerge as leaders who value the arts. For other career success stories, visit www.piedmont.edu/ theatre-arts-careers.

piedmont.edu/apply

students during the

Online Teaching: Preserving the

pandemic.

Artist and the Art

“I started teach-

Theatre inherently asks for a level of

ing online using a

vulnerability from students – and that’s

small-scale stage in

in a normal year. During a pandemic, that

my home office with

vulnerability is escalated. Each educator

some RGBW LED

interviewed for this article expressed a

lights mounted in

sense of empathy and understanding for

a circle above the stage. An HD web

Tony Penna Clemson University

cam set up on the

the greater needs and priorities of their students in today’s climate.

Blanton, like many educators, uti-

stage gives students a close-up view of

lizes check-ins to touch base with his

the lighting. For a model, I have both a 12"

students.

posable manikin and a life-size wig head,

“We always spend the first 10-15 min-

which gives a better view of how light

utes of every class discussing what’s going

lands on an actor’s face. I used this stage to

on,” he said. “We have something called

demonstrate such topics as the McCandless

‘Roses, Buds and Thorns.’ What are roses?

method of lighting the stage and additive

What are your thorns? The good, the bad

color mixing. The lights are controlled by

and your buds, the things you’re looking

our theatre’s ETC Gio @5 console.”

forward to.”

Beyond visualizing designs in his light

Gruenloh also utilizes check-ins with

lab, Penna virtually demonstrates designs

his students and plans to continue doing

and techniques for his classes with the

so, whether online or in-person.

ETC Eos software companion program, Augment3d.

“I’ve found it beneficial to ‘check in’ with my students more and more,” he said.

BFA, BA, OR BS DEGREES

“I can screen share instead of demon-

“And while that was motivated out of the

strating over a web cam, which gives the

shared experience of living through a pan-

6-8 PRODUCTIONS A YEAR

students a better view of light on people

demic and that added immediate stress of

SUMMER CAMPS

and objects,” he said. “The students can

becoming a ‘responsible remote student,’ I

install the free software on their own com-

think the check-ins will stay long after the

puters so they can do their assignments

pandemic is over – online or in-person.

and lab work.”

Hopefully, there’s a lot more empathy in

Penna also teaches a stage manage-

In an ideal situation, people would have

to help his students visualize and practice

the choice to teach or learn online rather

cue-calling.

than being forced into an online setting,

“I have a collection of show files from

but educators are proving that online the-

my stage lighting class where students used

atre classes and extracurricular activities

a visualizer to create a sequence of cues to

can achieve their typical objectives with

play along with a song of their choosing,”

adaptations. The innovations developed by

Penna said. “I call this the lighting concert

theatre educators and practitioners out of

project. The stage management class is

necessity will be long-lasting additions to

going to use those songs to practice call-

the industry – forever changing the land-

ing cues.”

scape of theatre education. n

Penna plans to continue using Eos and FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Augment3d for certain projects when he

LIBERTY.EDU/ARTS/THEATRE

returns to in-person learning. With the help

THEATRE@LIBERTY.EDU

of these resources, he’s able to engage all students at once rather than one student at a time.

50 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

the classroom going forward.”

ment class, using the same Eos software

Eric Eidson is a Chicago-based theatre artist and educator.

He is a PhD student at Texas Tech University, where he is researching and developing online theatre education resources for his dissertation.

SUSTAINABILITY AND THE COSTUME SHOP

‘Every Piece of Cloth Is an Opportunity’

by Sarah McCarroll

Y

You’ve

probably heard the old theatre maxim: “Cheap, fast, good – pick two.” The daily question that occupies theatrical designers and production and shop managers is how to find the magical sweet spot of cost, pace and quality relative to an organization’s resources in order to create the best possible product for audiences. As scientists warn of the current and future consequences of global climate change, how must the theatre as a whole, and individual theatres, rethink “cheap, fast, good”? What does it mean to be cheap when costs to the environment are factored into the equation? What do fast and good look like when we consider the human effort of production? How might we reimagine a more sustainable practice in theatre?

And what does a sustainable costume department, in particular, look like? You may think the costume department already practices sustainability as a matter of form – that’s what a stock is: sustainability in action. It’s true that most costume designers and technicians have a collection of little bits and pieces that, rather than going into the trash, have been squirreled away for the moment when they become the perfect thing to complete a costume – and that’s a good first step. But how can sustainable practices become intentional? And how might they be used to support a robust theatrical practice?

Southern Theatre asked a half-dozen costume designers who have made sustainability a part of their everyday practice to share their techniques and their advice. As Erik Teague, a freelance designer based in Washington, DC, noted, sustainability should not be viewed as a burden: “Don’t look at it as a stumbling block, look at it as an opportunity.”

Sustainability born of budget concerns

fashion has ballooned the speed at which people get

Working within the demands of “cheap, fast,

rid of clothes … When I started working for myself

good” is how Teague first became interested in sus-

and realizing that there’s so much that ends up in

tainable practice. When he began his career, Teague

landfills and oceans, I decided that maybe I could

says he often had “$5 and a whole lot of gumption …

do just a little to curb that by using thrifted pieces or

so a lot of my looking at transforming clothing pieces

secondhand things.”

that had already been made in the world came from that economic need.”

Jason Orlenko, a freelance designer who has

The notion of doing “just a little” can become a doorway into finding methods of sustainable practice for one individual or an entire costume department.

Erik Teague (above) used thrifted petticoats to create the costumes for the hens in a 2018 production of The Cunning Little Vixen at the Glimmerglass Festival in Cooperstown, NY. His rendering for the hens is shown on the opposite page and the actual costumes are shown onstage below. The production team committed to using sustainable practices, and “almost everything onstage had a beginning as something else,” Teague noted.

designed for theatres such as Milwaukee Repertory Theatre and Skylight Music Theatre, had a similar experience.

“I started to become more sustainably motivated because of budgets,” said Orlenko, who is based in Bloomington, IN. “When you’re doing a very large show with very little budget, you have to go through the stock to see how much you can possibly use … and both fabric and garment stock don’t cost you anything. It’s important to open yourself to the possibilities of what’s already there before you try to create from scratch all the time.”

For both Orlenko and Teague, budget-based sustainability grew into an interest in sustainability in general.

“As I grew in my career,” Teague said, “I realized that there’s so much fabric waste in the world. Fast Winter 2021 x Southern Theatre x 53

There is no one sustainable method

the whole look of

The key to meeting both a production’s

The book A Practical Guide to Greener

an ensemble,” he

aesthetic needs and its goals for sustainabil-

Theatre, written by Ellen E. Jones, offers

said. “And so, you

ity is in establishing clear communication

detailed information about sustainability in

can use a stock

from the beginning of the process.

every area of the theatre. The author makes

ensemble, and

“The shows where I have used sustain-

it clear that “there is probably no way to

sometimes also use

able practices to their best have been shows

create a totally green production process

stock trim, which

where that was a conceptual conceit from

that meets all of the other parameters

means that you’re

required in a given situation.”

being sustainable

Teague concurs that what it means to work sustainably looks different for every show, depending on its needs.

in two places.”

the get-go,” Teague said.

Jason Orlenko Freelance Designer

Sustainability can inspire a theme

For example, The Cunning Little Vixen, a production Teague designed for the Glimmerglass Festival, is “about the cycle

One concern that is often raised when

of life – life, death and rebirth – and how

“Period shows are harder if they’re not

conversations about sustainability in

nature continues and continues, even

heavily conceptualized,” he said. “You can

theatre begin is how to preserve a unified

though man likes to meddle in it.”

raid stock, but there are limits.”

conceptual aesthetic while relying on

The production team saw this thematic

But he still finds ways to integrate found

garments pulled from stock, thrifted or

focus as “a golden opportunity to use that

objects: “If I can get an underskirt out of

made from repurposed items. In many

cycle in every aspect of the show,” Teague

a quilted bedspread, then I can spend

ways, this is a false choice. The ultimate

said. “[We], collectively with the director,

money and buy silk brand-new for the

theatrical goal of telling a story can –

all decided we want to embrace more

bodice.”

indeed, should – be the first goal. No one

sustainable practices. So, in illustrating

Orlenko notes that making small

is suggesting that aesthetics, concept or

this animal world, almost everything

alterations in an existing garment and

thoughtful design choices be scrapped

onstage had a beginning as something

using stock items can boost sustainability.

in favor of an environmentally neutral

else. All of the foxes’ and the vixens’ looks

production.

were pieced-together jersey knits from a

“Changing trim is a great way to change

MASTER OF ARTS IN THEATRE “The Villanova program allowed

me to keep doing it all. I wanted to be a leader and learn the ins and

Pursue your passion in Villanova Theatre’s new home, the state-of-the-art Mullen Center for the Performing Arts!

outs of running a nonprofit theatre.

I also wanted to continue to act and direct. My Villanova degree has been very useful in a city like Philadelphia that values a well-rounded theatre professional.

I have a clear, full picture of what theatremaking is and what it involves, and that’s been a big

”

benefit to my career.

— Hallie Martenson ’15 MA in Theatre, Certificate in Nonprofit Management

YOUR PASSION. YOUR FUTURE. 54 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

Visit theatre.villanova.edu or call 610-519-4760.

thousand different sources – every rust-

Building sustainability into the

While the swatches

colored Henley shirt I could find. It was

design process

will cost money,

a very important thing that we agreed on

In addition to conceptualizing a show

the amount will be

as a team, and it became a defining part of

to be as sustainable as possible, it is also

considerably less

the show.”

possible to make the design process

than the cost and

itself sustainable. Using paper and art

environmental

supplies for rendering is not the most

impact of a plane

environmentally costly element of costume

flight or long drive.

design, but electronic rendering can save

Sourcing sus-

those supplies (and the money that goes

tainably may also

into purchasing them).

include prioritizing suppliers who work

Orlenko says that rendering elec-

sustainably themselves. Christina Leinicke,

tronically is about speed, but it also ends

a freelance designer and the staff design

up being sustainable. When you’re doing

assistant at the Paramount Theatre in

four shows at the same time, he said, “you

Aurora, IL, says she tries to favor brands

just have to render really, really fast, and

that use sustainable packaging materials.

coloring especially goes so much more quickly electronically.”

The back of the vixens’ costume, made from pieced-together jersey knits.

Christina Leinicke Freelance Designer

“Now, those do tend to be a bit more expensive brands,” Leinicke said, “but their

Designers can also think sustainably

products last longer, so they end up being

about sourcing. Rather than making a shop-

good for the show, good for the stock and

ping trip to New York (or the nearest large

good for the environment.”

city) for a production’s fabric, consider

Budgetary concerns may influence

having fabric suppliers send swatches and

choices, but even the decision to thrift a

then ultimately send cut lengths of fabric.

garment rather than buying new from a

theatre.indiana.edu

Master of Fine Arts

Acting, Costume Design, Costume Technology, Directing, Dramaturgy, Lighting Design, Playwriting, Scenic Design, and Theatre Technology

Nationally Recognized Faculty Member of URTA & USITT NAST Accredited Professional Summer Theatre

Bachelor of Arts Theatre & Drama

Bachelor of Fine Arts Musical Theatre Contemporary Dance

IU Midsummer Theatre Camp & IU Summer Dance Intensive for high school students

Water by the Spoonful (2019), photo by Daniel Meeks

Winter 2021 x Southern Theatre x 55

large online retailer can have an impact.

10-out-of-12 rehearsal, that often means

Your recycling effort saves the environmen-

that designers and technicians work 12 or

tal cost of using a garment that may well

14 hours, and then turn around and do it

have been made using environmentally

again in order to get notes accomplished.

harsh methods, which was then shipped

been,” Leinicke said, because that pace is

Human sustainability is often

not sustainable for the bodies or creative

overlooked

spirits of the people in the costuming field.

Another important part of a sustainable

Keep good Company.

Join us!

of your human self is a thing.”

of the resources that must be sustained.

Using technology, conservation to

Leinicke, Orlenko and Teague all stressed

reduce waste

the importance of thinking about human

Thinking sustainably about costume

sustainability in the costume department.

design also means thinking about costume

This means adequate staffing for the

construction, maintenance, stock and

production scale; it means regular days off

communication in the costume department.

and reasonable working hours. Exhausted

One of the easiest ways for a shop to quickly

people take the easy way out, and that way

become more sustainable is the use of

is often not the most sustainable. It can also

technology to reduce paper waste.

be true that the adaptation and repurpos-

Kyle Schellinger, the cutter/draper at

ing required to turn a found, thrifted or

the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s

upcycled object into usable fabric or an

Clarence Brown Theatre, notes that his shop

entirely different kind of garment can be

has made significant efforts to go digital in

just as labor-intensive, and sometimes even

recent years.

“We are making great use of Google

“I’ve had shows where trying to put

Drive and have folders for each show

together a look from a lot of different

with notes in Excel and measurements,”

sources has taken a lot longer and been a

he said. “This gives designers easy access

lot more labor-consuming than it would

to information on

have been if we had just gone out and

their phones when

bought six yards of fabric, but ultimately

they are out shop-

I think the look benefited from the extra

ping. The access to

toil,” Teague said.

these files is limited

It is essential to acknowledge the limits

to shop staff and

of what is possible for your theatre’s human

designers only, to

resources. Teague makes sure to have a

keep control of pri-

conversation with shop managers about

vacy issues. We still

what can reasonably be accomplished as

keep a paper copy

early in the process as he can.

of measurements

“I’m very up front about, ‘Here’s how I work, and this is what I like to do … Now tell me what’s viable for your shop,’ ” he said.

56 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

Orlenko said simply: “The sustainability

ethos is recognizing that people are one

more so, than building from scratch.

FloArts.org

“It really can’t work the way it has

internationally.

Kyle Schellinger Clarence Brown Theatre

just in case, but we are using much less paper to set up show bibles.”

Leinicke also cites the important role

Orlenko notes that it is common for

that technology can play in making the

freelance costumers to serve as the sole

communication process work in a smooth

build and fitting staff for their area, while

and environmentally friendly way.

a scenic designer may have carpenters and

“We have the ability to use technology

painters, and a lighting designer will also

to network within the department so

have a master electrician. Leinicke concurs,

efficiently, which also ends up being

noting that careful attention must be paid

sustainable,” she says. “The costume shop

to scheduling. If actors are called for a

has a private Dropbox, where we can share

Department of Communication, Media, and the Arts

and edit fitting photos. We use a tablet to

for wardrobe immediately, and sort and

take fitting notes, so everyone has access

organize them for the shop, so they have

to the document. We do the same thing

them first thing in the morning. There’s no

with tech notes, so we can print notes out

rounding up of information.”

Environmentally friendly tips and tricks For designers:

Bachelor of Arts in Theatre

4 Make more use of stock. The perfect ensemble may not be in stock as-is. But the perfect ensemble may be in stock hidden under old trim, or just begging for a new ruffle.

Acting for Stage & Screen

4 Thrift, thrift, thrift. Local thrift stores don’t have scenic flats, but they do have a multitude of blouses, suits and shoes just waiting for their second lives onstage.

Musical Theatre

4 Buy responsibly. If you must purchase new supplies or garments for a design, think strategically about how to minimize transport time, whether that involves shipping or driving your car around town. When shopping online, try to consolidate orders into as few shipments as possible to reduce packaging. And remember that cheaper is often synonymous with less sustainable. That $2 cardigan you found online is probably being shipped internationally from a place where it was produced in ways that are unfriendly to both the environment and human workers.

Design & Technical Production

For technicians:

4 Build with an eye toward reuse. Build with extra seam allowance where possible for ease of alteration. Make trim easily removable (and include as much trim as you do seam allowance). Consider flat-lining side seams rather than bagging them out, or swing-tacking a lining rather than fully finishing it.

4 Consider whether you need “new” materials to make something. Could you buy a stack of thrifted cotton sheets at the beginning of a season and use them for mockups, rather than new muslin?

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VISIT US AT NOVA.EDU/ARTS Email: carey.courson@nova.edu 58 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

4 Think about mock-ups as a part of stock. Rough-finished mockups can become excellent rehearsal pieces, particularly for period shows, and can be saved for use in more than one rehearsal period.

4 Consider temporary distressing methods. For light distressing, look for commercially available distressing products that dry clean away. You may also be able to launder away glycerin (for sweat stains) or dirt products from makeup manufacturers, which is not possible with paints and dyes.

For maintenance, wardrobe and stock:

4 Think about how to maximize the number of new costumes your stock replaces. Can you create or expand on a theatrical community sharing system in your city or region?

4 Buy supplies in bulk. Consider buying shop staples, such as fasteners, hand and machine needles, and thread, from sewing supply companies. There is often the bonus of a bulk discount!

4 Use high-efficiency washers and dryers. In addition to using efficient machines, do your laundry efficiently: Cold water is generally best for garments and uses less energy. Consider whether garments can or should be hung dry to reduce dryer loads.

4 Use green cleaning products. There are environmentally friendly detergents that are just as cost-effective as others. Avoid using fabric softeners and dryer sheets; not only are they hard on the environment, they can leave residue in garment fabrics.

4 Use energy-efficient lamps in dressing rooms. It is now possible to get these lamps with the warmth that incandescent bulbs supplied, so that stage lighting is replicated.

Not only are these lamps longer lasting and cheaper to run than incandescent bulbs, they tend to produce less heat. That’s a big win for small dressing room spaces!

WHY STUDY THEATRE AT SEWANEE?

A chance to explore all aspects of theatre—acting, design, directing, playwriting, history, and theory.

The Tennessee Williams Center—a state-of-the-art facility featuring two theatres, design and scenery studios, and more.

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The Sewanee Pledge—study abroad, get funding for an internship, and you’ll graduate in four years. Guaranteed!

Expanded financial aid program to meet the full need of those who qualify.

Schellinger notes that he also keeps

the show, actor and general measurements,

his “draper bible” in digital form without

then hang them in a corner of stock near the

printing sketches or measurements. Going

petticoats,” Schellinger said. “I cross-label

beyond paper waste reduction, “we also

the patterns and store them. I can then use

send all of our old T-shirts and hose to

the mock-ups over and over again until

paints for rags,” he said.

they are overly marked up. This not only

Rachel Pollock, a costume crafts artisan

saves resources, but saves so much time!”

at the University of North Carolina at

It is also worth checking your area to

Chapel Hill’s Playmakers Repertory Com-

see if there are fabric recycling programs

pany, recommends making water conserva-

where your scraps can find new life. The

tion part of the sustainability effort.

Broadway Green Alliance (broadwaygreen.

“Set water goals and treat them like

com) has a list of resources that’s a great

carbon offsets,”

place to start.

she said. “Set a goal

Benefits beyond the environment

for the number of

Ultimately, thinking sustainably not

‘allowed’ dye jobs

only has environmental benefits, but often

for a production,

has benefits that stretch outward to all

and if a designer’s

areas of design and production. Making

vision requires

maximum use of stock or using less muslin

m o re t h a n t h e limit, they must

means freeing up budget for the builds Rachel Pollock Playmakers Repertory Company

you prioritize. Efficient communication

a local water conservation organization.”

trips mean a more energized, creative and

Adapting construction methods to

focused designer.

donate a portion of their budget to

conserve fabric

means fewer errors that require you to redo work. Fewer or more efficient shopping

In addition, sustainable costume design

Costume construction can be made more

can have aesthetic and theatrical benefits.

sustainable with a little intentional think-

For a production of The Little Mermaid,

ing. Both Schellinger and Heather Milam, a

Teague used bubble wrap and packing

professor of practice in costume technology

materials to make a bunch of 18th-century

at Indiana University, emphasize ways to

wigs and dresses for the suitor ladies, and

cut down on waste in the draping and pat-

the headdresses for a lot of the fish were

tern development process.

made out of large detergent bottles. And

“I use ½-scale

part of the point of using those materials

dress forms for

was thematic – that the ocean has been so

many of my classes

contaminated by plastic that it has become

to reduce the use

part of the world of the sea creatures.

of fabric,” Milam

For Teague, connecting production

said. “Or, for per-

themes with a sustainable ethos deepens the

iod gowns or such

meaning of the production: “I love foundobject design. I love to see either identifiable

where scale is important, [we] draped ½ of a full-

Heather Milam Indiana University

sized form.”

objects or a fascinating rejuvenation of an identifiable object. And I think there’s an inherent theatricality to that.” n

Schellinger looks for ways that muslinconsuming mock-ups can be used in

Learn more at theatre.sewanee.edu

multiple garments.

“If I have an especially useful mock-up, e.g., period skirts, corsets, general bodice or coat shapes, I carefully label them with

60 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

Sarah McCarroll is an associate professor of theatre and costume shop manager at Georiga Southern University.

She also is the book editor for Southern Theatre.

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WORDS, WORDS, WORDS . . .

Editor: Sarah McCarroll

Words, words, words … [Hamlet II,ii] reviews books on theatre that have a connection to the Southeast or may be of special interest to SETC members. Sarah McCarroll, an associate professor of theatre at Georgia Southern University, edits this regular column. If you have a book for review, please send to: SETC, Book Editor, 5710 W. Gate City Blvd., Suite K, Box 186, Greensboro, NC 27407.

The Costume Supervisor’s Toolkit: Supervising Theatre Costume Production from First Meeting to Final Performance

by Rebecca Pride 2019, Focal Press; routledge.com ISBN: 978-1138182585; Pages: 170 Price: $46.95 (paperback); $44.60 (Kindle)

‘The Costume Supervisor’s Toolkit has more helpful, important, usable information than any other book that addresses costume supervision.’

by Heather Milam

all costumers, as is the “useful addresses” section (places to shop in both the U.K.

B

and the U.S.).

efore I agreed to review this book, I already had purchased it as a gift for a

As a maker, I regularly participate in

student graduating from my MFA costume

discussions of “how long will it take to

technology program. The student had gone

make … ?” and find that my student drap-

through a draping, patterning-focused

ers have the hardest time estimating time

graduate degree and had experienced

and fabric quantity for projects as they are

costume supervision through practice,

planning their workflow. Pride helpfully

but didn’t have a comprehensive resource

Pride explores the full range of duties

includes charts – titled “womenswear/

for this costume area, which is her chosen

in which costume supervisors must be

menswear costume hours ready reckon-

specialty. The publisher’s description noted

proficient, providing direct and specific

ers” – that estimate hours for projects from

that it would provide just that, which made

details. In addition, she covers the basics

patterning through making a variety of

it the perfect gift for my student. After

of costume shop management, from

costume pieces. She also includes fabric

reading the book, I can attest that it delivers

terminology, how to prepare for meetings,

amount estimates for both contemporary

on that promise.

and strategies for good communication to

and period costumes.

The Costume Supervisor’s Toolkit: Supervising Theatre Costume Production from First

budgets, sourcing and other nitty-gritty details of day-to-day operations.

In my view, The Costume Supervisor’s Toolkit has more helpful, important, usable

Meeting to Final Performance was written

When I first started reading, I struggled

information than any other book that

by Rebecca Pride, a course leader at Arts

a bit with “translating” some of the

addresses costume supervision. This book

University Bournemouth in England. She

terminology Pride uses – words that are

is ideal for the new costume supervisor who

worked as a professional costume and set

common in Britain but not so much in

has some experience in costumes generally,

designer before moving into academia.

America. In her Introduction, Pride lists

but needs some guidance and reassurances

The information presented has clearly been

some of these terms in a table, so this issue

for transitioning into a supervisory role.

well-researched, with guidance provided

is mentioned upfront. (For example, she

The Costume Supervisor’s Toolkit shows

by costume supervisors working in all

notes that “rented costumes” are termed

supervisors how they can be the “ROCK

scales and varieties of production.

“hired costumes” in the U.K.) Even so, a

(Resourceful, Organized, Creative and

newer American costume supervisor may

Kind)” of the costume team. n

This book is logically organized, and each chapter is titled to reflect the infor-

find the different terminology confusing.

mation contained within it. You can read

Pride clearly promotes respectful,

it cover to cover (as I did for this review),

gentle, open and kind communication. I

but you do not have to do that in order to

was grateful that she addressed gender

find value. It also works well as a guide that

diversity with the inclusion of a gender-

you pick up to find the assistance you need

neutral measurement form. The fabric

in the moment.

terminology appendix is very helpful for

62 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

Heather Milam heads the MFA costume technology program at Indiana University. She was a curator for the emerging artists’ exhibit for the Prague Quadrennial 2019 and currently serves as USITT’s costume vice commissioner for archives.

The Laramie Project / Photo by Bryan Cardinale-Powell

Visit okcu.edu/theatre for more information

The Laramie Project / Photo by Bryan Cardinale-Powell

3 DEGREE PROGRAMS BFA ACTING

BFA DESIGN & PRODUCTION

BA THEATRE & PERFORMANCE

4 Senior Showcases

Production Work for all 4 years

2 Semesters On-Camera Acting

Professional Partners & Internship Opportunities

Flexibility to double major or pursue multiple minors Study Abroad opportunities

Index for Southern Theatre, Volume LXI Volume LXI, Number 1, Winter 2020

Volume LXI, Number 3, Summer 2020

Ross, Zackary Hot off the Press

Plays About Uncomfortable Truths LXI/1/2020/4

SETC Leaders/Staff Black Lives Matter

SETC Pledges to Act LXI/3/2020/4

Glenn, David Outside the Box: Design/Tech Solutions

Stone Cloth: Create Rocks with Aluminum,

Muslin and Glue LXI/1/2020/6-7

Ragland, Will Outside the Box: Design/Tech Solutions

3-D Ground Row: Create the Illusion

of Depth on a Small Stage LXI/3/2020/6-7

St. Peter, Richard The Piano Man

If You’re Auditioning at SETC,

Jose Simbulan Has Some Notes for You LXI/1/2020/8-14

Multiple Writers We’re Listening

Black Theatre Artists Tell Us What Needs to Change LXI/3/2020/8-11

Curry, J. K.

The Technical Director Drought A Career Opportunity for Students and a Challenge for the Industry LXI/1/2020/16-24, 26-28

Lehmann, Stephanie M. Should You Join a Union?

Explore When, Why, Which

and If One Is Right for You LXI/1/2020/30-42

From High School to College: Miller, Matthew Be Ready for the First Day of Class

LXI/1/2020/44-46 Index to Volume LX Unbylined LXI/1/2020/48 Unbylined

2020 SETC College, University & Training Program Directory LXI/1/2020/D-1 – D-24

Volume LXI, Number 2, Spring 2020 Hot off the Press Ross, Zackary

Plays Featuring Large Casts LXI/2/2020/4 Outside the Box: Design/Tech Solutions Crews, Christopher

From Sawdust to Sky:

Creating Clouds on a Backdrop LXI/2/2020/6-7 NC Black Repertory Company Curry, J. K.

Producers of the National Black Theatre Festival Sharing the Gospel of Black Theatre

LXI/2/2020/8-16 Unbylined

Celebrating SETC’s 71st in Louisville LXI/2/2020/18-19 Matthew Aaron Stern King, Laura

How Stage Management Can Change

the World LXI/2/2020/20-25

Lehmann, Stephanie M. How Theatre Makes Its Comeback

Producing Shows in a Pandemic LXI/3/2020/12-21 Taylor, Jonathon Generosity Leads to Success

Advice from the 2020 SETC Design Keynotes LXI/3/2020/22-27 Charney, Mark No Theatre Building? No Problem (compiler) Texas Tech Presents Entire Season in Found and Site-Specific Locations

LXI/3/2020/28-35 Ross, Zackary Hot off the Press

New Plays to Make Us Laugh LXI/3/2020/36

Volume LXI, Number 4, Fall 2020 Ross, Zackary Hot off the Press

Plays That Answer the Call for a

Diverse, Equitable Theatre LXI/4/2020/4 Simpson, Christopher Outside the Box: Design/Tech Solutions

Need to Create a Realistic Fire Effect?

Build a ‘Humid-A-Fire’ LXI/4/2020/6-7 Luckett, Sharrell D. Best Practices

to Make Theatre Classrooms Inclusive LXI/4/2020/8-14 Luckett, Sharrell D. Best Practices

for Anti-Racist Auditions LXI/4/2020/16-17 Wohl, David Making a Musical

The Art of Adapting a Book or a Film

for the Stage LXI/4/2020/18-29

2020 Charles M. Getchell Award King, Laura The Playwright

Getchell Award Winner Rachel Bykowski Explores Cuomo, Amy Ashlee Latimer

the Bond Between Mothers and Daughters in

Building Connections Is Key in Social Media

28 Light Years From Now and Career LXI/4/2020/30-31,34 LXI/2/2020/26-30 Bykowski, Rachel The Play John E. R. ‘Jerf’ Friedenberg Receives Gibson, Jeff

An excerpt from 28 Light Years From Now, the

SETC’s 2020 Suzanne M. Davis Memorial

2020 winner of the Charles M. Getchell Award, Award

given by SETC to recognize a worthy new play, is LXI/2/2020/31

published. The entire play is available for reading

online at www.setc.org/28-light-years-from-now.

Moment Work Jeffers, Gaye LXI/4/2020/32-33

Embracing a ‘Tectonic Shift’

in the Creation of Theatre LXI/2/2020/32-35 Simone, Teresa

Buie-Madden, Falan

2020 SETC Young Scholars Award Winners LXI/2/2020/36

64 x Southern Theatre x Winter 2021

Words, Words, Words …

Vanmeter, Derrick

Review of Casting a Movement: The Welcome

Table Initiative, Claire Syler and Daniel Banks, editors

LXI/4/2020/36

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