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Mission Statement & Learning Outcomes

Whitworth Theatre is dedicated to cultivating artistic integrity in its students and its program as we explore the many aspects of theatre in an environment that challenges our students to integrate their faith with their art within and beyond the Whitworth University community.

Students in the theatre program address two primary questions:

What does it mean to be a Christian in theatre? (Or, what does it mean to be a theatre artist?)
What is Christian theatre? (Or, what is the function of theatre?)

Departmental Goals and Objectives
By the end of the sophomore year, the student will be able to do the following:

• analyze a dramatic script from the perspective of the actor;
• employ a variety of rehearsal techniques;
• prepare an audition;
• create both individual and group performances from a variety of texts;
• articulate basic theoretical and ethical performance issues;
• construct basic stock units for a set;
• employ proper vocal techniques for performance (performance track);
• employ proper movement techniques for performance (performance track).

By graduation, the student will be able to do the following:

• define "Christian theatre" and explain what it means to be a Christian in theatre (or, if the student is not a Christian, s/he is asked to define "theatre" and what it means to be in theatre given her/his worldview);
• execute the four fundamentals of play directing: play analysis, communication with actors, design and production, interpretation and style;
• identify important practices, playwrights, and plays in the history of theatre and articulate the relationship between theatre and the culture within which it exists;
• construct a theoretical argument using historical information;
• create and present a project demonstrating expertise in a chosen area: performance, directing, theatre in education or community engagement, design or research;
• develop and demonstrate a standard audition packet (performance track) or portfolio (technical theatre track) as defined by URTA (performance track).