Program Overview

Introduction to the Theatre and Dance Program

The Theatre and Dance program at Ball State University offers a variety of undergraduate degrees, including Acting, Musical Theatre, Dance BFA, Dance BA/BS, Design and Technology BFA, Design and Technology BA/BS, Directing and Stage Management, Teaching Major in Theatre, and Theatre Creation.

Admission, Auditions, and Interviews

To be considered for admission to the Design and Technology BA/BS program, students must apply to the university and schedule an interview with the faculty. The interview is not required for admission to the program, but it is strongly recommended for departmental scholarship consideration.

Applying to the University

Students must apply for admission to the university prior to scheduling an interview for the Design and Technology program. The supplemental theatre application is part of the online application to the university.

Scheduling an Interview

Interview requests are made by filling out the supplemental theatre application. The design and technology BA/BS option has an open admissions policy, so scheduling an interview for admission into the program is not required for admittance to the program.

Interview Dates

The following interview dates are available:

• On-Campus: Saturday, November 8, 2025, and Saturday, February 7, 2026
• Virtual LIVE: Saturday, February 14, 2026
• Off-Campus: Pittsburgh Unifieds - Virtual Live Tech & Design Portfolio Reviews, Saturday, October 25, 2025

Process and Guidelines

All applicants will be notified of dates, times, schedules, materials needed, and audition guidelines via email no later than two weeks prior to the audition date chosen.

What to Prepare and What to Expect

Students should prepare the following materials:

• A résumé that outlines their theatre activities and experience
• Evidence of their theatrical design and/or technical experience, in a portfolio or notebook, that may include:
  • Renderings, drawings, sketches
  • Photographs of models
  • Prompt books
  • Poster or program designs
  • Photographs of the process and/or the production
• A short statement of purpose that clearly addresses:
  • What they want to do in the theatre
  • Why they have a passion for their area of interest
  • What skills and values they possess which will make them a successful student for the next four years, and a working professional later in life

Researching the Program

Students are encouraged to research the program prior to their interview and come prepared with questions. The faculty will be available to answer questions and provide more information about the program.

Being Yourself

The interview is an opportunity for the faculty to get to know the student and for the student to learn more about the program. Students are encouraged to be themselves and ask questions.