Theatre and Drama

专业介绍

A degree in Theatre and Drama from the University of Wisconsin–Madison opens doors to a wide range of careers. The department combines the best of a broad-based undergraduate education with specified training in many aspects of the performing arts – including acting, design, dramaturgy, technology, and theatre engineering.

Students learn from faculty and staff who are professional artists, technicians, and scholars working actively in their fields, in an environment that is both supportive and challenging – combining one-on-one mentoring, small classes, and opportunities for applied work in production. Theatre students develop skills in communication, collaboration, and critical thinking, along with cultural and creative competencies which prepare them for successful careers in the professional theatre and entertainment industry, gaming, and education as well as for graduate studies and preparation for such fields as law, communications, business, and more.   

The centerpiece of the department’s curriculum is its production program, chiefly the University Theatre (UT) program, as well as a Second Stage program supporting experimental and student work. Through a year-round season of productions, the Department of Theatre and Drama’s University Theatre serves as a vibrant arena for experiential and collaborative learning, engaging undergraduate students in embodied and hands-on work, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in performance, technical theatre, and design for audiences on campus and locally.
 
Our majors complete a Bachelor of Science degree in Theatre and Drama through the School of Education. Students may informally select areas of emphasis such as design, stage management, directing, acting, or theatre technology.

Majors whose primary interest is acting may pursue the Acting Option. This highly structured program of study offers students a deeper practical knowledge and experience of the skills required to pursue professional work as an actor and/or advanced studies in theatre. Students are highly mentored and will benefit from personalized performance reviews with the acting faculty at the end of each semester. Upon completion, this named option will be formally documented on the student’s transcript.

The new Design and Technology Option offers a focused course of study for students who are particularly interested in the behind-the-scenes aspects of theatremaking such as scenic design, costume design, lighting design, sound design, projection/media design, stage management, and technical direction. Mentorship is a central component of this named option. By allowing students to focus on the visual, technical, and managerial aspects of the Theatre and Drama major, this option combines creative exploration with practical application in both classroom and production settings.