Program Overview
Western Michigan University's stage management program prepares students for careers in theatre through a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes practical training, including hands-on involvement in productions and mentorship from experienced professionals. The program's state-of-the-art facilities and individualized learning experiences provide students with a strong foundation in all aspects of stage management. Graduates have pursued diverse careers in the theatre industry, including stage management, production management, and directing.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Western Michigan University's stage management major is a pre-professional program designed to provide students with a general overview of all aspects of theatre production, as well as advanced coursework in stage management. The program aims to prepare students for entry-level positions in theatre or further education at the graduate level. The program emphasizes practical training alongside classroom instruction, maximizing opportunities for students to learn in state-of-the-art facilities. These include three theatres with advanced lighting systems, infrared and color monitor systems, cue light systems, and digital audio and projection systems. Additionally, design and stage management classes are held in the Design Studio, providing students with access to 24 CADD workstations for an individualized learning experience.
Outline:
The stage management program at WMU includes a comprehensive curriculum covering various aspects of theatre production. Students are required to stage manage, assistant stage manage, and/or production assist on a minimum of two of the nine shows produced per academic year, with progressively increasing responsibility. Beyond classroom studies, students also complete a skills-building semester once per year in each area of technical theatre and production. This immersive and production-oriented program provides one-on-one mentorship with the University's resident Actors' Equity Association stage manager and faculty.
Teaching:
The stage management program at WMU incorporates a combination of teaching methods, including:
- Hands-on practical training through involvement in various theatre productions.
- Classroom instruction and discussion-based learning.
- One-on-one mentorship with experienced stage managers.
- Guest lectures and workshops conducted by professional artists and industry experts.
Careers:
Graduates with degrees in stage management from WMU have pursued diverse career paths within the theatre industry, including:
- Stage managers
- Company managers
- Production managers
- Directors
- Producers They have secured positions with Broadway productions, films, television shows, major regional theatres, and touring productions. Notable past alumni have participated in shadowing opportunities on Broadway and with national tours, gained experience with renowned theatre companies, and secured internships at acclaimed theatres worldwide.