BFA DIRECTING degree

Inherent in the program is a commitment to teach and foster excellence in technique along with professionalism, intellectualism and collaboration. While certain classes may have a primary focus, and emphasis may change from year to year, all values are certainly reaffirmed and developed in all directing area classes throughout the four-year program of study.

Faculty assessments of students' abilities in these areas are ongoing. Students are responsible as well for self-evaluation and reflection. Progress according to the central values are addressed and discussed between each BFA student and two faculty members at the end of the freshman, sophomore and junior years during year-end evaluations. Accomplishments and growth of the past year are discussed and future goals are proposed. In this manner students are able to shape intentionally their ongoing studies.

Creating theatre ultimately involves connecting the unique talents and visions of many individuals. Therefore, practicing skills in collaboration is the main focus of this year. Students will be involved in several class group projects as well as participate outside of the classroom in practicum experiences, which support our main stage production season. It is expected that through these experiences individual self-discipline will be developed as well as the ability to play supportively and cooperatively within an ensemble.

Students will also learn about and practice fundamental analysis of scripts and basic techniques in acting. Studying Stagecraft theory along with hands-on practice helps directors to be aware of the variety of skills and talent needed in production areas of theatre.

First-year Directing students are required to take advantage of opportunities to assistant stage manage main stage productions so as to be able to observe carefully the process of a faculty director. Professional skills will be developed through creation of a theatrical resume, and identification of career opportunities for summer work.

Freshman University studies classes of Critical Writing, Reading, and Research I and II enhance theatre students' sensitivity to language, develop close reading skills, and expand abilities in creative expression and research skills.

Second year students investigate more thoroughly the historical, literary and theoretical theatrical traditions through Integrated Theatre Studies I and II, History of Styles and Dramatic Literature courses. Development of analytical skills is especially stressed in this year.

Collaborative skills continue through various practicum experiences, Pipe Dreams attendance, and through continued experience in stage management.

During this year, students should decide what specific areas to explore further with the 23 elective credits for the major.

A course in U.S. Studies increases theatre students' awareness of cultural diversity of the human experience. Also taken may be the non-sequential course requirements in Quantitative Analysis and Science which help to develop logical and systematic thinking processes to balance creative and imaginative ways of knowing the world.

While the second year emphasizes depth of study, the junior year encourages breadth. While focusing in specifically on directing techniques, students should also be exploring outward in a variety of areas to enhance their understanding of how theatre is created. The study of aesthetics in Global Aesthetics challenges students to consider the place and responsibility of the arts in world cultures.

Students should be taking advantage of opportunities to direct short plays in Pipe Dreams space as well as to observe different faculty directors through continued stage management opportunities.

A choice of a Global Studies course continues to expand theatre students' awareness of diversity in the world beyond the Western traditions. Also continuing will be courses in a second language, or semiotics or a specific cultural tradition.

Many students take advantage of the flexibility of the Junior year to take a semester abroad. For example, theatre students have recently returned from semester long experiences in England, Ireland, Argentina, Australia, Spain, and Italy.

The final year stresses professional growth through integration and application of analytical, technical, and collaborative skills. Students hone their own personal process through direction of a full-length play in the studio space.

Students continue to explore other areas through completion of their selected elective courses.

Current Students
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