Theatre

Curriculum

Majoring in theatre is so much more than simply performing on stage. You will gain a solid knowledge of theory, history, literature and criticism, which is critical to the craft. The theatre degree program at the University of Mount Union will expose you to all of the necessary components of the field and offer you ample opportunities to “practice” what you learn. From acting, lighting, sound and properties to stage and box office management, you will experience the variety of positions and areas offered by the field of theatre and be prepared for career success. Active participation in our theatrical productions supplements your classroom study, providing hands-on experience.

Careers

Majoring in theatre is so much more than simply performing on stage. A solid knowledge of theory, history, literature and criticism is critical to the craft, and the various aspects involved in a singular production are numerous.

Experiential Learning 

These opportunities, which complement classroom learning, include:

• Involvement in theatrical productions including acting, stage managing, set construction, costume design and lighting
• Opportunities to act in, direct and design productions
• Lecturers and discussions with actors and performers
• Conduct drama workshops for children
• Independent research
• Research with faculty or student peers
  
  

INTERNSHIPS

Internships provide you with the opportunity to go into the workforce and gain hands-on, “real-world” experience, which is critical to finding a job after graduation. Internships can be designed to align with your career goals. Theatre major students have pursued theatre internships within acting, technical and management areas. In recent years, students have interned with the following organizations:

The Guthrie Theatre, Ohio Light Opera, Porthouse Theatre, Trumpet in the Land, The North Country Center for the Arts, Cleveland Playhouse, Great Lakes Theatre Festival, Fairmount Theatre of the Deaf.

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips are organized each year, and include attending the Stratford Shakespeare Festival in Ontario, Canada, Humana Festival for New American Plays in Louisville, Kentucky and other regional community and professional theatres.

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Students who choose to major in theatre at the University Mount Union have many opportunities to hone their skills, broaden their theatrical abilities and showcase their talents. Getting involved in extracurricular opportunities and student organizations will prepare you for a successful theatre career.

Mount Union Players is a student-led organization on Mount Union’s campus.

Direct Admission

To be considered for direct admission to the Theatre major, an audition will be required. Please be sure to complete the Theatre Audition Reservation Form.

Thank you for your interest in scheduling an audition. You can choose from the designated audition dates listed on the form. Scholarship preference will be given to those who attend one of the designated audition dates, but late auditions are still considered. 

Theatre auditions and portfolio reviews serve two purposes:

1. Theatre Majors: For students who wish to major in theatre and are thus applying for direct-admission to the theatre degree programs, auditions and portfolio reviews are an evaluation of skill and potential for success. For these students, auditions and portfolio reviews are part of the admission process into the theatre degree programs as well as evaluations of theatrical ability for the purposes of earning a scholarship award. Students intending to major in theatre should clearly state their intent to do so in the application process. There is also a blended scholarship available for students double majoring in both theatre and music.
2. Non-Theatre Majors:  For students who do not wish to major in theatre, the theatre audition serves only as an evaluation of theatrical ability for the purposes of earning a Theatre Scholarship Award.

The Visual and Performing Arts Scholarship audition dates for students admitted to the 2023 incoming class are as follows:

• Saturday, February 11, 2023
• Saturday, February 18, 2023
• Monday, February 20, 2023

 
To compete for these scholarships, performers will present an audition, and designers and technicians will present their portfolio for review. Students with multiple areas of interest may compete as performers and designers/technicians.

Students auditioning digitally for an Acting emphasis shall prepare and video record two contrasting monologues of approximately one minute each. Students auditioning for a Musical Theatre emphasis shall prepare and record one monologue lasting approximately one minute and a known Musical Theatre song. Next, upload the unedited recording to YouTube, save as an unlisted video, and email the link to francije@mountunion.edu. All students should also email a copy of their resumes. Once received, you will be contacted to discuss your interview.

During the interview, students should be prepared to discuss their Theatre experience, training, and future career plans. This will be an opportunity for students to get acquainted with our Theatre faculty and ask questions. For questions or concerns, please contact us at the above email.