About the Program
Theatre & performance students participate in classes, laboratories and productions in order to understand, appreciate and pursue aspects of the performing arts. You will have many opportunities to develop your knowledge and skills inside the classroom and through main stage and studio production activities under the supervision of professional faculty. A distinctive feature of the department is the faculty's deep collaboration with global, ethnic and interdisciplinary programs.
No audition is required to major or minor in the department. Auditions for performers and applications for design and technical positions are open to all W&M students.
Paths of Study
Concentrations
W&M Theatre
Take part in high-quality and richly staged productions, reviving important classical dramas and producing challenging contemporary theatre.
W&M Dance
Bring to life original performances by faculty and choreography by students.
Applied Learning
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Theatre Courses
Hone your skills in Stage Craft (THEA 205), Theatrical Combat for Stage (THEA 211), Sound Design for the Theatre (THEA 312) and Introduction to Musical Theatre (THEA 260).*
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Dance Courses
Study the History of Modern Dance (DANC 220), the Alexander Technique (DANC 303) and Dance, Poetry, Art & Social Justice (DANC 355).*
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Student Activities
Join the Theatre Students Association, Alpha Psi Omega Honor Society or the Orchesis Dance Company.
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Production Opportunities
Utilize the skills you learned in class as a performer, designer or technical crew member on main stage productions.
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Sinfonicron Light Opera Company
Visit and join the student-run theatre company with a repertoire of musicals and light operas.
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Arts Quarter
Fall 2023 saw the opening of the new Arts Quarter with an expanded Phi Beta Kappa Memorial Hall and the new Music Arts Center.
Outcomes
Theatre & performance students receive broadly-based, cross-disciplinary training that prepares them for graduate work and careers in both related and nonperforming fields. Many theatre alumni have found that the skills developed through studying theatre and dance are an asset in many different fields. Dance alumni have commented that they learned a great deal about themselves through dance courses and that the close bond that develops between students and faculty through work on choreography projects is an especially valuable part of their college experience.
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Want to learn more? Our current students and faculty want to connect with you.
Department of Theatre & Performance
Contact Us
- Get an inside look: Contact a current theatre & performance major
- Ask the faculty: Contact the Department of Theatre & Performance
Theatre & Performance News
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Courses Disclaimer
*Courses listed are examples. Course availability changes each semester.
