At DU, we value all aspects of the production process, from playwriting, acting and directing to technical elements like scenery, lighting and costume design. You'll learn the ins and outs of theatrical production, absorbing insight from experienced faculty and an array of professional visiting artists.
With a solid background in all phases of production and hands-on experience in both the practical and aesthetic sides of theatre, you'll be ready to pursue a creative career in the dramatic arts.
The Department of Theatre strives to connect students with faculty and guest artists who complement classroom learning with creative work. We emphasize critical thinking and practical skills in acting, designing and directing that provide students with a toolkit that will shape their future career in any area.
Distinction in Theatre
We recognize outstanding achievement by theatre majors through a "Distinction in Theatre" designation that will accompany your degree from DU when you graduate. Students who receive distinction demonstrate significant qualities of professional work in their respective field(s).
If you're seeking a distinction in theatre, you must submit a checklist and a letter of intent to the department chair. Both are due by the end of the second week of classes in the quarter the student plans to graduate.
We encourage students who are eager to pursue distinction to get started early (by sophomore year) to realistically have enough time to pursue and accomplish all criteria.
Note: Fulfilling the requirements listed below does not automatically grant Departmental Distinction to the candidate. Faculty will assess the specifics of each application and will determine whether the work is of proper quality.
Note: A departmental production = fully-produced show, part of the department's mainstage season, directed by faculty or professional guest artist. For the purposes of distinction, "departmental" productions do not include class projects, independent projects, senior capstones or staged readings.
Act in six productions, at least four of which must be departmental mainstage productions. The other two can be capstones and/or a professional or community theater production. Departmental staged readings don’t count.
Assistant-direct one departmental production (faculty or guest professional director)
3.7 GPA in Directing I
Direct two productions (that are not part of a class or practicum assignment; can be on campus or off; a maximum of one departmental staged reading counts) OR
Complete two Independent Studies with faculty mentors in Directing or Directing-related areas
Demonstrate significant leadership experience and technical craft expertise on five DU or professional theatre productions as a departmental technical assistant (TA), or part of the DU Tech Intern Program or an alternative technical opportunity in which significant skills were gained.
Complete an Assistant Design for a mainstage show with faculty or guest design mentors
Compile a portfolio in consultation with your Design advisor; make a formal presentation for faculty review
3.7 GPA in at least Five theatrical design classes or design adjacent classes in Art, Film, or related departments
Complete a written thesis your senior year under the supervision of a theatre faculty mentor (may be completed with independent study hours and/or PINS)
We may award distinction in more than one area, but the same production or project cannot be listed for multiple awards.
For instance, if a student wants distinction in both directing and stage management, he or she must participate in four departmental productions in addition to the other respective requirements listed.
"Departmental" refers to the major production(s) each quarter, directed by a faculty member or guest artist. This excludes senior projects and independent student productions.
Go to the graduate admission application to submit your information. For information on admission requirements, visit the graduate academic programs page and locate your program of interest.
