The
Division of Theatre and Dance offers the Bachelor
of Arts degree in Theatre. Within the context of a liberal
arts education, the BA in Theatre provides students an opportunity to study
acting, directing, design and technology, as well as theatre history, literature
and theory. Students may also minor in dance as part of their educational
experience.
The BA in Theatre includes coursework in the social and behavioral sciences,
arts and humanities, natural sciences and mathematics as well as in the
performing arts. In addition, students are required to complete two semesters of
intermediate level study, or equivalent proficiency, in a second language.
Study in theatre includes 30 credits in required theatre courses and 6
credits in theatre electives. The program focus is on learning through active
participation in all aspects of performance and production. Many classes
culminate in production and performance experiences, including acting, dancing,
directing of original scripts, or staging of choreography. Further, majors are
required to participate in all facets of main stage productions and encouraged
to become involved in student-directed shows.
Undergraduate study in Theatre prepares students for graduate work in theatre
and dance or in related fields of study. It also readies students for theatre
related careers on and off stage. Graduates go on to careers as actors,
designers, dancers, directors, technicians, and stage managers.
The minor in Theatre is designed to provide
students with foundational experiences in acting, design, directing, dramatic
literature, and theatre history, with a focus on theatrical production and
performance. The requirements for a Minor in Theatre are as follows:
THE 111 - Introduction to Theatre Credits: 3
THE 112 - Masterpieces of World Drama I Credits: 3
THE 116 - Play Production Credits: 3
THE 117 - Fundamentals of Acting Credits: 3
THE 118 - Stage Makeup Credits: 3
credits in any Theatre courses at the 200 level or above provided that prerequisites
are met Credits: 6
School of Performing Arts Philosophy
The liberal arts degree in
Theatre at the University of Maine offers the undergraduate the broad range
of study essential to developing
the whole person. Within the Theatre/Dance Division, the student may elect
to focus on a specific area of interest by selecting a group of courses beyond
the
core requirements, or to explore all areas of the theatre curriculum. Options
for specialization include: History, Literature and Theory; Directing; Acting;
and Design Technology. Learning by participation is our philosophy and one
of our strengths. Majors are required to participate in main stage productions,
and
encouraged to become involved in student-directed shows. Many classes culminate
in production and performance experience, including directing of original
scripts. Our objective is to offer each student a balance of the academic,
practical, and artistic aspects of theatre, and much personal guidance
throughout their academic careers.
Opportunities We produce four main stage
productions a year, including recent comedies and dramas, classics of Shakespeare
and the
Greeks,
musical theatre, occasional original works, and an annual dance concert,
featuring the works of faculty and student choreographers. Additionally, we
have a very active student theatre series, providing opportunities for
student
directors, designers, actors, and playwrights, and an annual touring show.
We have top-notch faculty who regularly publish and maintain ties with
professional
theatres and dance companies.
Facilities We have two excellent theatres: Hauck Auditorium, a modern 500-seat proscenium
theatre; and the Cyrus Pavilion
Theatre, a modified thrust
stage with 100 seats. The Pavilion is used extensively as a student laboratory
for experimental works and as a teaching and performance facility. Additionally,
we have two studio teaching and performance spaces for theatre and dance.
Careers Our graduates are high school and university teachers, as well as professional
actors, designers, dancers, technicians,
and directors.
Some have also found their way into film and television. Our theatre program
has
enriched the quality of their lives. Our program in theatre has also enhanced
the careers of people who do not choose to directly follow a path in theatre.
So, we invite you to join us for an exciting and rewarding education in theatre.
Performing Arts Scholarships are available to new and transfer students.
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