Theatre

BACHELOR OF arts

Whether students take center stage or stay behind the scenes, the theatre program cultivates their theatrical skills with classes in acting, design and theatre history. What students learn in the classroom they apply in our award-winning productions. Since faith is integrated into the curriculum, our program produces professionals who model Christ in the theatre world.

Minors and Concentrations
Theatre Minor

Design/Technical Theatre Concentration
Performance Concentration

About the Program
Interesting Courses
Student Learning
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Why study theatre at CBU?

Make lifelong friendships and thrive in community
Our program gathers weekly for Community Time. During these times the students and faculty worship together in song, scriptural devotions, prayer and times of sharing. We use this time to invite Christian theatre professionals, two or three times each semester, to share their experiences. All CBU students are encouraged to participate in our productions. Students work with faculty and staff on all aspects of production including set design, costumes, lighting and sound design, stage managing and even assistant directing. This creates a truly collaborative environment where students grow and flourish.

Perform in venues around the world
We have a musical theatre touring group, which is a small audition group of students who perform at schools, churches, homeless shelters and community groups. The show is between 45 minutes to an hour long and gives an overview of the musical theatre genre from Rodgers and Hammerstein to Lin-Manuel Miranda. Alumni have performed in Shakespeare by the Sea, the Disney Cruise Line, children’s theatres, and Off-Broadway theatres, and have studied abroad at the Theatre Academy London, Trinity College in Ireland, and the University of Westminster in England.

Play Structure and Analysis

THE 232

This course is designed to introduce the student to the skills of dramatic analysis, theatrical research, writing, and critical thinking.

Directing I

THE 353

Students will practice the craft by presenting in-depth research and script analysis and directing scene work.

Auditioning

THE 441

This laboratory class provides theatre students with a place to practice audition skills and create a repertoire of audition pieces.

Student Learning

Evidence of Student Learning

Students who graduate with a B.A. in Theatre will be able to:

Demonstrate proficiency with the materials, techniques, theories and tools of their discipline.
Demonstrate responsible and effective critical analysis and response skills through the presentation of oral or written critiques of the interpretations, performances and designs of their own work and the work of other theatre artists.
Apply classroom and production experiences to the professional world (i.e. summer stock employment, auditions, internships, employment in the motion picture industry, or graduate school).

Take the next step toward living your purpose

As you make decisions about college, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.

Apply today! When you complete and submit your application to CBU, a friendly and knowledgeable admissions counselor will guide you through the admissions process and all the necessary steps to become a Lancer.

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Career Opportunities

Film Actor
Theatre Actor
Playwright
Producer
Dancer
Director
Set Designer
Lighting Designer
Sound Designer
Stage Manager

51–54

Units

4

Productions a Year

1986

Year of First Production

Student Testimonials

"I have always loved literature and theatre and the combination of the two seemed like the most natural option. I hope to either perform or work in costumes and/or makeup in theatre or film. The professors here truly care about your individual education and the people I have met have been so uplifting and encouraging."
Emily Feaster, 2019

"I absolutely love theatre arts, and I love the effect it can have on people. There is an amazing community within the department, and the professors are absolutely fantastic. I want to perform professionally in theatre and musical theatre, and later I would like to teach and direct theatre. The theatre department is a great place for people to grow in their art as well as their faith! I have learned how to integrate my faith into my art."
Sarah Bare, 2021

"I’ve always loved theatre and I believe it’s what God has called me to do. I like the community in this program; I've learned more about myself in my two years here than anywhere else. I hope to go to Broadway, and CBU is giving me the skills I need to succeed in a very competitive field."
Mark McMillan, 2019

Meet Some of Our Faculty

Frank Mihelich

Associate Professor of Theatre

I’m a producer, actor, playwright and director. Professionally, I have worked and performed for a number of theatre companies and Off-Broadway and Off-Off Broadway. I’m the founding artistic director of New Threads Theatre Company, a Southern California based ensemble dedicated to telling stories that start inclusive conversations. I’m dedicated to exploring the intersection of the Christian faith and theatre.

See Profile >

Frank Mihelich

Associate Professor of Theatre

I’m a producer, actor, playwright and director. Professionally, I have worked and performed for a number of theatre companies and Off-Broadway and Off-Off Broadway. I’m the founding artistic director of New Threads Theatre Company, a Southern California based ensemble dedicated to telling stories that start inclusive conversations. I’m dedicated to exploring the intersection of the Christian faith and theatre.

See Profile >