The Theatre Program of the Communication Arts Department maintains four concentrations and a minor:

• Theatre Arts - preparation for careers in performance, technical and stage management positions
• Performing Arts - preparation for careers that combine theatre and music
• Arts Administration - preparation for careers in the business aspects of theatre
• Secondary Education Certification - preparation to teach English, speech and theatre on the high school level
• Minor in Theatre - preparation to augment a field of study you have chosen as a major

Productions

The Theatre Program of the Communication Arts Department produces three main stage plays each year including drama, comedy, musical theatre and children's theatre. Pictured above, guest artist Paul Barry portrays King Lear.

Student Productions: Theatre students have an opportunity to direct/produce a variety of plays. Productions are generally staged in the department's Black Box Theatre.

Acting, directing and playwrighting showcases: These showcases give students the opportunity to apply their course work in public performances.

Street theatre performance: Street theatre is held each year during Family Weekend.

STUDENT ORGANIZATION

The Marywood Players is a student-governed organization that includes all theatre students plus non-majors interested in theatre. The Players engage in fund raising to support charitable activities on campus, to provide members with theatre workshops and to sponsor theatre trips. In addition, the Players produce directing, acting and playwrighting showcase productions, a public performance for Family Weekend, and the annual High School Theatre Festival. They play an active role in providing feedback to the faculty and staff, which affects changes in the program and in production.

 

Sky Masterson sings "Luck Be a Lady" in Marywood's production of Guys and Dolls.

If you're browsing to compare Marywood with other colleges and universities, here are some issues to think about, issues that make Marywood's Theatre Program stand out from the rest:

1. When you choose your area of concentration or decide to minor in theatre you become part of the ENSEMBLE. All students in the program work interdependently to support all productions. You will have every opportunity to be involved and active. For the most part freshmen have the same opportunities as seniors. You will work on every show and build an impressive resume.
2. As part of a Communication Arts Department you can easily develop skills in radio and television, advertising and public relations.
3. The faculty and staff pay close attention to individual needs. Your program develops your assets so that you are marketable in a competitive business. Emphasis is placed on building a work ethic, since it is our philosophy that if you know how to work, you will get work!!
4. Internship programs connect you with the industry before graduation. Many of our students have jobs the summer following graduation.
5. Professional directors and designers outside the faculty and staff are employed to broaden students' experiences and to provide professional contacts after graduation.
6. Talent awards are available for incoming freshmen if you demonstrate a special ability in performance, technical theatre or playwrighting.