Program Overview
Introduction to the Theatre Program
The University of Southern Mississippi offers two undergraduate degree programs in Theatre: the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and the Bachelor of Arts (BA). The BFA in Theatre is designed for students who wish to pursue careers as performers, technicians, or designers, while the BA in Theatre provides a broad array of coursework with a flexible approach to specialization, making it suitable for young directors, stage managers, and dramaturgs.
Degree Plans
- The BFA in Theatre is geared towards students focused on future careers as performers, technicians, or designers.
- The BA in Theatre promotes a broad array of coursework with a flexible approach to specialization for a more comprehensive and well-rounded education in theatre studies.
Curriculum
In a production-oriented environment, students take courses in:
- Directing
- Acting
- Design & Technology, including Lighting and Sound, Costuming, and Scenery
- Theatre History
- Professional Preparation
- A selection of additional coursework tailored to individual student interest
Scholarships and Awards
Scholarship Opportunities
The theatre program offers scholarship consideration to students who complete their registration, attend "Curtain Up Welcome Day", and complete a successful audition/interview.
- Service awardees must complete 15 hours of service for the program each semester by working the High School Drama Festival and other activities.
Special Scholarships
The highly exclusive and competitive scholarships are awarded by the theatre faculty for talented and needy students. These awards range from $100-$8,000.
Conferences and Study Abroad
Travel and exposure to the broader world of theatre are critical to the development of actors. The university is an active participant in both the Southeastern Theatre Conference and the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival.
- The Study Abroad programs feature internationally renowned guest artists in musical theatre, Shakespeare, and contemporary drama.
- Programs include a five-week British Studies program, a two-week London Theatre program, and a two-week Performing Arts program at the Edinburgh Festival in Scotland.
- All of these credit programs are eligible for financial aid.
Career Options and Alumni
Theatre program alumni have gone on to successful careers in various aspects of the theatre industry, including:
- Acting
- Design
- Stage Management Notable alumni include Aleshea Harris, Freddie Ashley, Sophie Santos, Zdenko Martin, Chris Marroy, J.D. Evermore, Meredith Wyn Morris, Langston Darby, Kaylyn Kriaski, Courtney Jones, and Tony Reimonenq III.
Additional Programs and Training
- Lessac Kinesensic Training: A unique, holistic, comprehensive, and creative approach to developing the body and voice.
- Southern Arena Theatre: Students hone their skills by performing in summer theatre.
- Apparel Construction and Design: A guided four-course tour through both sides of apparel design, from hands-on construction to merchandising.
