Program Description
Vermont State University’s Bachelor of Arts in Theater Arts program encourages a tightly knit group of students to explore all the possibilities for personal expression in theater. Students have numerous opportunities for practical experience in a variety of production settings including main stage plays and musicals, black box productions, Collaborative Arts, and many student projects. Small class sizes allow students to work closely with our dedicated faculty in a project-based environment that encourages collaboration. They gain practical experience working on several shows in a variety of roles: acting, directing, dance, stage management, running crew, lights, sound, video, scenic construction, and much more.
Students may join the Theater Arts department on the annual trip to New York or London (alternating years) class which spends a week in the city to attend the latest plays on Broadway or the West End. Additionally, they work one-on-one with faculty to develop portfolio, seek out internship opportunities, define career goals, and plan for their future after college. Students focus on their interest by choosing a concentration in Acting and Directing or Technical Theater and Design. The department also offers a Dance Minor and a Theater Arts Minor.
Theater Productions allow students to hone their craft in a public forum. They will acquire the knowledge to discuss and analyze productions, demonstrate a high degree of competency in one or more areas of theatrical production, and appropriately utilize materials to achieve the desired effects.
Recognizing that theater is a challenging and competitive field, the program provides training and experience to show student talent in its most exceptional light. Program graduates have been successful on and off stage in summer theater, Off-Broadway, television, film, and educational theater, as well as graduate school.
Program Outcomes
-
Discuss and analyze productions in terms of thematic concerns, literary qualities, and artistic approaches.
-
Demonstrate a high degree of competency in one or more areas of theatrical production such as directing, design, performance, writing, stage management, or production management.
-
Utilize materials in appropriate manners to achieve desired effects and communication to an audience.
-
Incorporate input and ideas generated through the collaborative process of production into their own creative work.
-
Present their work for review in a professional manner consistent with their areas of concentration.
