The BA in Theatre, Musical Theatre Track degree offers students knowledge of and training in all aspects of musical theatre within a liberal arts. Students entering the program will be advised to explore many dimensions of theatre, music, and dance and develop as singing actors with well developed additional skills and knowledge. Successful graduates will be able to compete for employment opportunities in the entertainment industry where musical talent is utilized. They will be capable of applying their learning to a wide variety of career options including, but not limited to, performance. For students intent on a professional career in performance, additional learning through free electives (and even a minor area of study) is advised in acting, voice training, music proficiency, and dance.
The program combines strengths of the voice program of the Music Department with the performance programs of the Theatre, Dance and Performance Department. An audition for both departments is required for entry into this challenging program.
Musical Theatre students will perform in main stage musicals of all genres, cabaret offerings, and studio performances.
As a practical extension of the academic program, the department offers a variety of production opportunities in the Theater-by-the-Grove main stage and studio theaters. The IUP Dance Theater performs twice annually.
Admission to the Theatre program requires satisfactory completion of an audition or interview, in addition to the university’s general admission requirements. Audition information is available at www.iup.edu/theater.
The Department of Theatre, Dance and Performance is a fully accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST).