Challenging Minds, Changing Lives

Department of Theatre & Dance

 

B.F.A. in Stage Management

The Stage Management Program seeks to encourage and to develop the artistic growth and creative excellence of the individual student. As a department we strive to educate and empower each student with the tools necessary to be both a complete theatre artist and artisan. We seek to provide a learning environment wherein a challenging and nurturing process leads to a life of dramatic excellence in both the art and craft of theatrical stage management.

Course of Study Requirements

A core of courses is required of all B.F.A. students in Stage Management to ensure a breadth of knowledge in theatre and an awareness of the history of theatre, as well as to develop abilities in communication and management. The educational experience is a balanced mixture of course work and experiential learning. Course work is taught by competent, creative educators and professionals who are enthusiastic and current in their fields. We believe that mentoring and individual attention are vital to the progress of the student.

Core Classes (21 credits)

  • TH 131, Play Analysis
  • TH 141, Acting I
  • TH 242, Theatrical Make-up
  • TH 253, Stagecraft
  • TH 255, History of Style
  • TH 321, Directing I
  • TH 335, Integrated Theatre Studies I
  • TH 336, Integrated Theatre Studies II
  • TH 100, PipeDreams (6 semesters)

BFA Stage Management Project/Internships (7 credits)

  • TH 101, Theatre Practicum, 2 semesters
  • TH 493, 494, Assistant Stage Manage two productions
  • TH 493, 494, Stage manage first main stage production
  • TH 493, 494, Stage manage second main stage production-capstone
  • TH 470, Two Kirkland Fine Arts Center Stage Management Internships

The senior year typically involves a capstone experience synthesizing the student's education through a second stage management experience on the main stage.

BFA Stage Management Support Courses (44 credits)

  • TH 135, Introduction to Design Theory
  • TH 322, Directing II
  • Dramatic Literature (6 credits)
  • Dance Technique/appreciation
  • Music Theory (4 credits)
  • CO 101, Intro to Communication Theory
  • CO 341, Organizational Culture
  • MS 120 Intro to Computers and Info Systems
  • Theatre Electives (6 credits)

Design Studios:

  • Drafting
  • Lighting
  • Costumes or Scenery
  • Sound (either TH or CO 214 or MC 104)

Click here for a typical four year schedule of classes

Review:
 At the end of the first year there will be a formal review or "hurdle" for Stage Management BFA students. The hurdle will consist of an evaluative discussion and portfolio review with the student, the department chair, another faculty member, and the departmental Production Manager. Students must pass this review to continue on in the BFA program.

Performance Obligation:
Millikin believes that all Theatre Majors should experience the full spectrum of the art of theatre if they are to be a well-rounded artist. Performance Majors participate in the technical preparation of a production and Stage Management Majors are likewise expected to engage in the process of audition and performance. Stage Management majors are asked to appear in a minimum of one performance while at Millikin. This performance could be in a main stage, Pipe Dreams, Dance Concert, or directing class scene.

Click here for BFA Stage Management Interview information

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