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Theatre, B.A.

Theatre, B.A.

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Whitworth Theatre is a collaborative training ground for storytellers, performers and theatre-makers. Through rigorous personalized study, you will learn theory, develop performance skills, and make meaningful connections between your worldview and the art you create.

We are a vibrant, collaborative learning community that welcomes all students to explore and enhance their creativity through main-stage productions, our Festival of Short Plays and more. We focus on providing individualized experiences to encourage your artistic voice, whether you’re acting onstage or working backstage. On a typical day, you'll experience rehearsing an acting scene, painting a set, choreographing an original student-led piece, or just enjoying being together as a theatre family.

Why major in theatre at Whitworth?

  • Gain practical experience and build your résumé and portfolio through abundant production and performance opportunities.
  • Benefit from individual attention from professors, who provide meaningful interaction both in the classroom and in productions.
  • Acquire knowledge and skills that are widely applicable and that integrate well with other academic disciplines. You can easily double major in theatre and another academic area.
  • Learn from faculty who regularly work in theatre outside of the university and integrate up-to-date knowledge of the field into their classes.
  • Create shows collaboratively from the ground up, and develop and articulate your artistic vision.
  • Enjoy life- and career-defining experiences off campus through internships, performance opportunities and study programs.
  • Complete a Senior Capstone project that will give you meaningful professional experience on the main stage.
  • Participate in any production. You may not always get the role you hope for, but there is always a role for you to play.
  • Have fun! Making a play is a joyful act, and setting a positive and upbeat tone is a part of the culture of our department. In our senior seminar, explore the integration of your beliefs with your artistic actions.
  • Become who you're meant to be.
Headshot of Kaleb Capeller.
Critical Play Analysis, Playwrighting, and Business of Theatre have all been classes that I have loved. Critical Play Analysis allowed me to understand a play deeper than I ever thought possible. I took this appreciation with me into Playwrighting, where I learned more about the structure of a play, and even had a few opportunities to write my own. Finally, Business of Theatre really allowed me to lock in on the profession in theatre that I want to pursue. I learned more about myself in this class than in any other class I have taken.
Kaleb Capeller '28
What it's Like
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A row of trees stands at the end of a field covered in multi-colored autumn leaves.

Ask our faculty

Have questions? Our faculty are here to share their expertise and help you learn more about this program.

Ask Elise

eforieredie@whitworth.edu

Associate Professor and Department Chair Elise Forier Edie’s expertise includes directing, playwriting and stage movement.

Faculty Page

Our theatre grads make a difference (and get jobs)

Our theatre degree opens up to you a wide range of jobs in creative fields, including acting; writing, editing and publishing; directing in professional and educational sectors; technical production and management; scenic, costume, lighting and sound design; marketing, box office and house management; research and dramaturgy; arts education and advocacy; ministry and community outreach; movement, vocal and performance/presentation coaching; and professional and social dance. Professional theatres love working with our graduates because they know how to get the job done with skill and integrity.

Our graduates also work outside of the arts in positions such as financial analysts, human resource specialists, attorneys and business owners.

Recent job placements include:

  • Reid Tennis, production electrician, Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Denver
  • Court Alfrey, theatrical dresser, The Lion King and Beautiful – The Carole King Musical on Broadway, New York City
  • Ben Bonnema, musical theatre composer and lyricist, New York City
  • Andrew Coopman, teaching artist and director, Village Theatre and Studio East, Seattle
  • Maery Simmons, assistant manager of CRM operations, Michigan Opera Theatre, Detroit
  • Heather Botts, ensemble cast member and understudy for role of Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady, Lincoln Center Theater on Broadway
  • Alanna Hamilton, membership and communications manager, The 5th Avenue Theatre, Seattle
  • Preston Loomer, theatre technician, Canyon Crest Academy, San Diego

Our recent theatre grads further their studies in top programs at institutions including:

  • New York University
  • London Business School
  • Gonzaga University School of Law
  • University of North Carolina at Greensboro
  • University of California, Irvine
  • Emerson College

Opportunities outside the classroom

Whitworth theatre majors pursue many opportunities off campus, including internship and performance with professional theatres, both locally and nationally.

Pack your bags!

Experience English theatre and British culture in London, where you will visit museums, art galleries, cathedrals, universities and other places of historical and cultural significance, and will attend multiple theatre and music events.

What related degrees and programs can I explore?

Program information