Lewis University

What you'll study

The programme combines practical studio training with academic study of dramatic literature and theatre history. Core areas typically include acting technique, voice and movement, scene study, script analysis and improvisation; technical theatre topics such as scenery, lighting, sound, costume and stagecraft; and courses in directing, playwriting and dramaturgy. Students also study theatre history and criticism to place practice in cultural and historical context.

Study is delivered through a mix of classroom seminars, studio labs, production practicum and rehearsals. Students participate in departmental productions each year, gaining credited stage experience in acting, stage management, technical crews and design. Many programmes include a capstone project or senior showcase that brings together performance or design work with reflective research.

• Acting: scene study, audition technique, character development
• Voice and speech, movement for actors
• Stagecraft: scenery, lighting, sound and technical production
• Costume and scenic design, makeup
• Directing and rehearsal process
• Dramatic literature and theatre history
• Playwriting and adaptation
• Stage management and production administration
• Internship or practicum placement with professional companies or community theatres

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent and submit official transcripts. Admission commonly requires a personal statement or statement of purpose outlining theatrical experience and goals. Many programmes also ask for a résumé and a recommendation from a teacher or mentor familiar with the applicant’s work.

An audition or portfolio is often part of the selection process for performance and design tracks. Auditions typically include prepared monologues or songs (for musical applicants), cold readings and movement exercises; design/technical applicants submit samples of prior production work, design sketches or photos. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised testing or prior education taught in English.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of theatre and related fields. Typical career paths include professional actor, director, stage manager, lighting/sound/costume designer, scenic artist, dramaturg and theatre technician. The skills developed—public speaking, collaboration, project management and creative problem solving—also transfer to work in film and television production, arts administration, education, community arts programming and event production.

Many alumni build freelance careers with regional and commercial theatres, touring companies, or in film and television; others pursue postgraduate training such as conservatory programmes, Master's degrees or teacher certification for secondary drama teaching.

Why study at Lewis University

Lewis offers a theatre education grounded in small classes and hands-on learning that blends liberal arts study with practical stage experience. The programme emphasises collaborative production work so students gain real responsibility on departmental shows and technical crews, preparing them for the demands of professional practice.

Located within reach of a vibrant metropolitan theatre scene, students benefit from internship and networking opportunities with professional companies, guest artists and regional festivals. Faculty typically include working theatre professionals who bring current industry practice into the classroom, and the university supports student-led initiatives and showcases that help graduates present work to potential employers and collaborators.