Major

Theatre Studies

Overview

The Theatre Studies major provides you with a broad-based, hands-on education in theatre within the context of a liberal arts degree. After completing a strong core of theatre courses, you have the flexibility to choose specialty courses based on your interests and career orientation in the following areas:

You’ll receive a well-rounded educational experience, from academic pursuit in history, criticism, dramaturgy, and theory, to creative participation in the performing arts.

Point of Pride

Students are directors, playwrights, theatre managers, dramaturgs, actors, and critics. They propose, produce, and direct their own projects, collaborate in the annual Playwrights' Workshop, or assist with marketing and management of the School of Theatre, Dance, and Film main season. Students have many opportunities to interact and network with diverse visiting artists.

Why study Theatre Studies?

To make great art, you need a solid foundation in the history and theory of your discipline. The Theatre Studies major provides this foundation, after which you can pursue your academic and professional interests in a number of robust areas that encompass the creative and business sides of theatre. Theatre Studies faculty also mentor students interested in scholarly research, criticism, and graduate studies.

Schedule a Visit

Come see campus and meet with campus representatives either in person or virtually. Optional chances to meet with academic department, honors, and financial aid.

How to Apply

Applying to Illinois State

Applying by our priority deadline is encouraged for best consideration for your academic program and for scholarships. Start your application today!

Audition and Enrollment Process

  1. Apply to Illinois State University
  2. Choose an audition/interview date (Interview required for scholarship consideration only)
  3. Receive a confirmation email from School of Theatre, Dance, and Film
  4. Attend audition/interview if applicable for scholarship consideration
  5. Receive a decision within two weeks
  6. Submit your enrollment deposit and become a Redbird

Scholarship notification will take place the first week of March.

If you would like to audit a class, meet with faculty, or if you have a question about the enrollment process, email Cristen Monson.

Program Requirements

The School of Theatre, Dance, and Film applies the same academic standards as those required for admission to Illinois State University. There is no separate SAT/ACT or GPA requirement for admission to the School of Theatre, Dance, and Film.

Any student accepted by Illinois State University may declare a major in Theatre Studies. No audition or interview is required, although Theatre Studies majors may arrange an interview for departmental scholarship consideration.

You must apply to Illinois State University prior to interviewing for a Theatre Studies scholarship within the School of Theatre, Dance, and Film.

Interview for a Scholarship

If you wish to interview for a School of Theatre, Dance, and Film scholarship, please select an interview date within your application for admission. Prior to your interview date, please upload the following within your portal:

  • A resume of relevant theatre experience
  • A recent photo

On audition day, you will attend an interview with Theatre faculty. There will be a brief meeting of all those auditioning. Faculty and administration will introduce themselves and answer questions. 

You will be sent to a holding room where current students will talk about the program and answer questions. Individual interviews take place in the order the application is received.

During your interview with faculty, you will be asked to talk about your interest in this program, your experience in theatre, involvement in extracurricular or leadership activities, your expectations, and future plans. 

2024-2025 Audition Dates and Information

Saturday December 7, 2024  (Illinois State)
Saturday February 22, 2024  (Illinois State)

Deadlines and Review Dates

Students are accepted into the Theatre & Film Studies major contingent on admission by Illinois State University.

School of Theatre, Dance, and Film scholarship awards are announced after March 1.

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