Theatre, BA

Admissions Contact

Undergraduate Recruitment & Admissions
(860) 832-2278
admissions@ccsu.edu

Academic Contact

Sarah Atkinson
Theatre Support Specialist
Theatre
Safety and Health Committee
James J. Maloney Hall
101
860.832.3150
atkinsons@ccsu.edu

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Academic Department

Theatre

Theatre, BA

Central to Empowering Creative Expression.

Central’s BA in Theatre is a diverse degree program that provides students the opportunity to study a wide breadth of theatre. Learning takes place through practical application of techniques and theory related to performance, design, technology, and production. Additionally, students develop and refine skills in communication, personal responsibility,  collaboration, and creative problem solving. A BA in Theatre from Central is a flexible and individualized approach to studying the craft. 

Program Features

  • Attend full- or part-time
  • Guided electives help students achieve a balance between performance and design that suits their interests and career goals
  • Opportunities to perform, direct, design, manage or crew university shows
  • Opportunities through university clubs to propose and implement student-produced works
  • Small class sizes
  • Professors who are working professionals
  • Individualized mentorship
  • Ability to study abroad and secure internships
  • Opportunities to participate in national professional conferences
  • Financial aid and scholarships available
  • Free on-campus childcare available 

What You'll Gain

  • Expanded collaboration skills
  • Deepened cultural appreciation
  • Increased confidence
  • Improved time management
  • Tools to effectively communicate
  • Ability to cultivate leadership skills
  • Expanded self-confidence
  • Hands-on learning experiences
  • Multiple production opportunities each year involving faculty, guest directors, and student-produced projects 

Career Preparation

Students studying theatre at Central receive hands-on training. Through classwork and production roles, students participate in the collaborative process of creating theatre that mimics the experience of the professional world.

A theatre degree from Central prepares students for a variety of career options:

  • Theatre Artist – Actor, Director, Designer, Manager, Producer, Dramaturge
  • Educator – Professor, Teacher, Director, Arts Administrator
  • Technician – Props Artisan, Technical Director, Master Carpenter, Head Electrical, Board Operator, Seamster
  • Manager – Producer, Stage Manager, Production Manager, Exhibit Operator, Event Manager
  • Designer – Production Developer, Scenic Designer, Sound Designer, Lighting Designer, Costume Designer, Projection Designer

Clubs & Affiliations

  • Center Stage promotes the recognition and appreciation of musical theatre at Central. By co-sponsoring the university’s spring musical, Center Stage encourages creativity on campus and for students to be proactive.  
  • Theatre Unlimited broadens the theatrical experience of members by providing a greater understanding and appreciation of drama through participation in The Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival and the promotion of student-produced works. This organization also hosts annual celebration of student artistic achievements.  
  • United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) provides students with the opportunity to gain knowledge and experience in the technical and design processes in theatre. This organization co-sponsors the spring musical and attends the annual USITT conference.
  • Schlock is an improvisation comedy club on campus. Here students learn, practice, teach, and perform improv comedy through short and long form games. 

As a scenic designer and actress, I love the program’s flexibility so that I can pursue both disciplines. Also, the faculty creates an open environment which has allowed me to transform myself from a shy student into a confident artist.

Nicki Cuneo ’23

Did You Know?

Central Theatre Unlimited students attended the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (Region 1; KCACTF) and have been honored with merit awards for scenic design, sound design, stage management, directorial assistance, director-actor communication, and performance. 

Learning Outcomes

  1. Analyze the interrelationships of theatrical disciplines in performance or design through constructive critique of classwork, and theatrical production and performance.
  2. Apply research to an actual or theoretical creation to demonstrate mastery of performance or craft.
  3. Collaborate effectively with faculty and peers using processes reflective of professional theatre.
  4. Plan, prepare, and execute aspects of productions that approach professional-level theatre.