Theatre

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. You will also be exposed to the necessary components of the field and get ample opportunities to “practice” what you learn.  

Review the Undergraduate Catalog to learn more. 

Our degree in theatre prepares you to: 

• Effectively apply analytical and critical skills to theatre performance and production. 
• Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental skills important to each area of theatrical production: acting, directing, design and technical production. 
• Develop advanced skills in the practice of at least one of the above areas of theatrical production. 
• Recognize and solve problems inherent in ethical theatrical production. 
• Demonstrate an understanding of the history of theatre, with particular attention to the evolution of stylistic and aesthetic trends. 

Big Time On-Campus Opportunities 

At Mount Union, experience is at the root of all we do: practical experiences in the classroom and on stage, community-building experiences in student organizations and on field trips, professional experience in internships and networking events, and so much more. You’ll exercise and apply the values of your classroom and studio learning in all kinds of settings, preparing you for many paths to success after you graduate. 

Internships 

Internships promote progress in your professional development and grow your ability to apply your learning in real-life settings. You can access internships that align with your career goals in areas like acting, technical production, and management. In recent years, students have interned with 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 and Fairmount Theatre of the Deaf. 

Student Organizations 

Learn outside the classroom with student-led organizations like Mount Union Players. Student organizations connect you with dozens of opportunities to form a community and build your network in the areas you’re passionate about—in theatre and beyond. 

Conferences and Trips 

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

Careers in Theatre 

A BA in Theatre opens many avenues for success in the diverse entertainment and media industries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for roles like producers and directors, actors, and broadcast, sound, and video technicians is growing faster than average, meaning you will graduate into a dynamic and high-energy environment that is eager to secure and develop new talent.  

Our theatre major equips you for many aspects of theatre, film, TV, commercial, music video, and other types of productions, from on-screen or on-stage talent to the almost-uncountable technical, creative, and managerial roles required to keep a production alive. 

Common Careers 

Acting and directing 
Costume design 
Theatre management 
Scenic design 

Recent Employers 

The Cleveland Playhouse
Missoula Children's Theatre
Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Utah Shakespeare Festival
Prime Stage Theatre
Cedar Point Live Entertainment

Pursuing Graduate Education in Theatre 

Through graduate study, you can hone your craft or develop specialized skills for a career path like teaching or art therapy. Many Mount Union graduates go on to thrive at outstanding theatre programs—and programs in other specializations—across the country. 

Recent Graduate Schools

University of South Carolina
Northern Illinois University
Texas Tech University
Indiana University
University of Wisconsin-Madison
University of Arkansas
Michigan State University
Florida State University
Kent State University
Case Western Reserve University

Requirements for direct admission to theatre major 

To be considered for direct admission to the theatre major, an audition will be required. Please visit Visual and Performing Arts Audition and fill out the reservation form. The Visual and Performing Arts Scholarship audition dates for incoming students are held each spring. To schedule an audition, please 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 and evaluations of theatrical ability to earn 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.

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

Students who are unavailable on the audition days, or would like to schedule a virtual audition should reach out to the department by emailing francije@mountunion.edu

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. 

Giese Center for the Performing Arts

The vibrant Giese Center, named in honor of Dr. Richard F. and Sandra L. Giese, houses our music and theatre programs in a community-oriented hub for the arts. This is your space to exercise your learning—to display, connect, and perform. 

Brush Performance Hall 

The proscenium-style Brush Performance Hall offers seating for 450 on its lower level and on its balcony. The acoustically significant, state-of-the-art space can host events of varied natures including vocal, instrumental, and theatrical performances.

Gallaher Theatre 

The Gallaher Theatre, a black box multipurpose space can host an array of events including improv theatre, theatre in the round, small music ensemble recitals, dance performances, and other entertainment events as well as banquets and receptions. 

Cope Music Hall

Cope Music Hall is named in memory of the late Kenneth B. Cope ’20, alumnus, trustee, and churchman and includes Presser Recital Hall, which is dedicated to Theodore Presser, a former Mount Union student and professor.  

Sally Otto Art Gallery 

The Sally Otto Art Gallery features exhibitions of work by students, faculty, and professionals throughout the academic year.