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Theatre, BA

Immerse yourself in the BA theatre major at Seattle University. Prepare for a professional theatre career or pursue specialized training in graduate school.

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About this Program

Preparing Passionate, Intellectually Curious and Well-Rounded Theatre Artists

The theatre program at Seattle University offers a rigorous and comprehensive theatre-making experience within the framework of a broad Jesuit liberal arts education.

Our mission is to train a versatile theatre artist who brings intellectual curiosity and passion to their work, their life, and the world at large. We nurture your ambitions and strengths while delivering you a comprehensive education in all areas of theatre, including acting, design, directing, history, and production.

In tandem with classroom learning, you will receive practical training through our Mainstage Season working on all aspects of production: from acting to stage management, dramaturgy to assistant directing, backstage crew to design. The Mainstage Season is produced in the Lee Center for the Arts, which features a state-of-the-art 120-seat flexible space theatre, costume and scene shops.

Further performance and production opportunities are available to you through programs such as Scratch, a student-run showcase series; Stretch, which brings together artists-in-residence to work with you and faculty on workshops and performances; directing scene showcases; and student honors performances.

Our ultimate goal is to equip you with a strong foundation in all aspects of theatre in order to prepare you to enter the professional theatre community as resourceful emerging theatre artists or to pursue specialized training in graduate schools.

Theatre at a Glance

Learn this degree from the Department of Performing Arts and Arts Leadership will contribute to your career goals. Then, explore course requirements and see how impactful a Seattle University degree can be. 

Entry into the theatre major is contingent upon an entrance review. Students in the BA theatre major take a rounded curriculum that includes classes in acting, design, directing, theatre history and stage management.

Electives include classes in playwriting, advanced acting and advanced design. Our mainstage productions are a central component of the program providing intensive practical learning opportunities under professional guidance.

Theatre students should be able to:

  • Analyze text based on dramaturgy, cultural context, and style
  • Collaborate effectively in the creation of theatre arts
  • Apply discipline-specific skills and tools to the creation of performance
  • Connect your artistic practice to the issues of the day through a racially aware, intersectional lens
  • Marshal resources to lead to a final creative endeavor 

Choosing a minor in theatre performance is an enriching exploration of the dramatic arts. This program delves into the fundamentals of theatrical expression, offering a blend of theory and practical experience. Students study acting techniques, stagecraft, and the history of theatre, gaining insights into the collaborative nature of performance. A Theatre as Performance minor enhances communication skills, fosters teamwork, and provides a unique lens for interpreting human experiences, preparing individuals to contribute to the vibrant world of theatrical expression.

Embarking on a Theatre Production minor is an immersive journey into the behind-the-scenes magic of the stage. Students delve into the technical and logistical aspects of theatrical creation, mastering set design, lighting, sound, and stage management. This program blends hands-on experience with theoretical knowledge, offering insights into the intricacies of bringing a script to life. Through collaborative projects and real-world productions, individuals refine organizational skills, problem-solving abilities, and gain a deep appreciation for the technical artistry that underpins compelling performances.

If you’re planning on attending law school in the future, consider our Bachelor/JD Accelerated 3+3 Program. This degree plan allows you to finish both a law degree and a bachelor’s degree in six years. For more information, visit the Bachelor/JD Accelerated 3+3 Program Admission page.

What You’ll Learn

Learn about the classes you’ll take as a student here.

Students sitting in Lee Center

Lee Center for the Arts

The Lee Center is Seattle University’ state-of-the-art performance and exhibition space on the corner of Twelfth Avenue and East Marion Street. Designed to enrich the artistic experience of students, faculty, staff and the greater community, the center houses the "black-box theater" John Eshelman Stage, scene shop, costume shop, green room, dressing rooms and Hedreen Gallery.

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Creative Spaces: Billodue Makerspace

The Billodue Makerspace at Seattle University, located in the Jim and Janet Sinegal Center for Science and Innovation (Sinegal Center), provides creative spaces for theatre students, especially for interdisciplinary projects. You will be able to participate in a variety of maker-related activities including sewing, fiber arts, 3D printing, laser cutting, electronics, vinyl cutting, and glass work.

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Internships in Seattle’s World-Class Theatre Community

You are encouraged to connect with the rich and vibrant theatre scene in Seattle through internships. Students are encouraged to work with faculty to find the best opportunities to gain connections to the Seattle arts community.

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Pathways to Professional Formation

The College of Arts & Sciences is committed to helping you through your lifetime journey of professional formation and discernment. We offer opportunities to deepen and broaden your understanding of your professional identity.

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Arts and Sciences Advising Center

Our advising center is dedicated to your holistic academic and professional through academic advising and promotion of academic excellence. We work to solve problems, provide navigational guidance and build connections.

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Connect to Seattle's Vibrant Theatre and Performing Arts Culture

Seattle is, at its heart, a world-class center for theatre and the performing arts. Through our program, you can connect to the wider arts community in a variety of ways:

  • Our theatre faculty are working artists with strong ties to the professional theatre community.
  • Artists-in-residence are brought in to work with faculty and students.
  • Professional guest artists work alongside students in the Mainstage Season.

Hear From Our Alumni

SU Student Lia Gonia

Lia Gonia

As a Theatre and Communication & Media double major, I was also able to combine my interests and run the marketing communications for the department as a Theatre Communications Fellow. Just one month post-graduation, I was hired to do work at Theatre Puget Sound, an arts advocacy organization that supports individual artists and theatre organizations across the region. I'm so grateful for the opportunities that Seattle U has provided me, and the connections with friends that will last a lifetime

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