Undergraduate Information
Undergraduate education in the Division of Theatre reflects a commitment to the rigorous study of theatre within a liberal arts context. To this end, undergraduate theatre majors pursue coursework not only in theatre, but also in the social and natural sciences, literature, the arts and humanities, and other areas of human culture and experience. A faculty adviser works closely with each student to develop a program of study best suited to the individual’s needs and career goals. In addition, the Division of Theatre presents an annual season of public productions chosen for their timeliness and suitability for training. Practical experience in all areas of theatre operation is considered a vital part of the educational program.
Undergraduate Admission
Theatre is a dual admit program: in addition to meeting University admission criteria, prospective theatre majors at SMU are admitted to the major by audition and interview. All prospective students prepare an audition, consisting of two contrasting monologues and a song. Candidates may also be asked to demonstrate improvisational skills. Students seeking admission into the B.F.A. in Theatre Studies program may also be asked to demonstrate ability in their particular area of interest by supplying writing samples, portfolio materials, etc. Admission to the major requires both admission to SMU and admission through the theatre audition process. Note: Admission procedures for applicants seeking to transfer from other schools are the same as those for first-year applicants. Transfer students may begin work only in the fall term.
Evaluation of Progress and Artistic Growth
Students must continually demonstrate a high order of talent and commitment in both class work and production work to progress in the curriculum. At the end of each term, the faculty of the Division of Theatre evaluates each student’s progress, examining all aspects of a student’s academic and production participation. Every student meets with the faculty to receive this evaluation. An unsatisfactory evaluation is accompanied by the reasons for this evaluation and the terms for continuation in the program. An unsatisfactory evaluation may also result in a student’s immediate dismissal from the program. Only Theatre courses passed with a grade of C- or better will count toward the major in Theatre. Students cast in mainstage faculty-directed productions are expected to enroll in the appropriate rehearsal and performance laboratory course.
Degrees and Programs of Study
The Division of Theatre offers the B.F.A. degree in theatre with an emphasis in theatre studies or an emphasis in acting.
Graduate Information
The Division of Theatre offers three-year specialized professional training programs in acting and entertainment design leading to the Master of Fine Arts degree. The graduate training programs are committed to professionalism in attitude and practice. Only students with a serious interest in the theatre as an art – those committed to self-development and prepared to work responsibly and collaboratively in their discipline – should expect to enter and continue in graduate study.
Graduate Admission and Financial Aid
The Division of Theatre observes a highly selective admissions policy in its graduate programs. The acting program admits eight students in alternating years. The design program admits approximately four students each year. Prospective students in all areas are strongly encouraged to visit the campus to gain a keener appreciation of the division’s training, the environment and the University.
Acting Interview: Audition
The acting faculty auditions applicants for graduate study in acting. Applicants can choose to audition in Dallas, at the University/Resident Theatre Association’s three venues or at a number of the division’s own national sites. Appointments for on-campus auditions can be made by contacting the Meadows Student Affairs Office. On-campus auditions require the preparation of two monologues: one taken from a classical play and one from a modern or contemporary play for a total of four minutes or less. Students may sing but are not required to do so.
Entertainment Design Interview: Portfolio Review
The design faculty interviews applicants for graduate study in scenery, costume and lighting design. Applicants can choose to interview in Dallas, at the University/Resident Theatre Association’s three venues or at a number of the division’s own national sites. Appointments for on-campus interviews can be made by contacting the Division of Theatre.
Instructional Facilities
The Division of Theatre is part of the Meadows School of the Arts, housed in the well-equipped facilities of the Owen Arts Center. These include the Bob Hope Theatre (a 384-seat proscenium theatre), the Margo Jones Theatre (a 112-seat “black box” theatre), the Greer Garson Theatre (a 255-seat theatre with a classical thrust stage), the Ruth Collins Sharp Drama Building, and the Jake and Nancy Hamon Arts Library.
The Division of Theatre presents an annual subscription season of full-scale public productions chosen for their suitability for training, timeliness and public appeal. All theatre students are considered members of the Division of Theatre, and practical experience is considered a vital part of the theatre-training program.