Program Overview

Introduction to the Theatre Studies Program

The Theatre Studies program at the University of Guelph is a degree option within the BA Program, dedicated to the integrated study of both academic and practical applications of performance and theatre. This program cultivates critical thinkers, theatre artists, and creative performance makers engaged with our media-saturated world. The interdisciplinary curriculum, taught by leading academics and practitioners, synchronizes practical classes with critical and historical studies, connecting performance to everyday life. Students explore a range of approaches balanced between performance and production, including writing for performance, site-specific devising, acting and directing, puppetry, scenography, and digital performance creation. Collaborative thinking and artistic entrepreneurship culminate in a student-led ensemble final year production. The recently renovated performance facilities provide students with a professional-quality environment in which to learn and innovate, incorporating virtual performance spaces to foster student creativity. As the disciplines of performance and theatre evolve, the program welcomes new technologies, methods, and languages to provide dynamic and unique educational experiences.

Theatre Space Renovations

The University of Guelph's Theatre Studies spaces in the Mackinnon Building are undergoing a major renovation, expected to be complete by Fall 2021. The renovations include a partial renovation and addition to the George Luscombe Theatre, a new costume shop/design studio, new green room and dressing rooms, and an updated scene shop.

Program Learning Outcomes

The Theatre Studies Bachelor of Arts program is designed to provide students with the following learning outcomes:

• To develop artists who thrive on intellectual curiosity, openness to ideas, and take measured risks through creative experiences.
• To develop informed and creative citizens, empowered to contribute to the world through writing and performance.
• To apply critical sensibilities through a familiarity and understanding of a range of significant performance and media work, past and present.
• To develop well-rounded performance artists who possess the research tools and disciplinary skills to model their own productive performance practices.
• To develop meaningful ways to integrate theory, technology, and practice, where critical thinking and creativity are equally embraced.
• To learn techniques for communication and collaboration, build relationships, and to listen to and respect different thought processes.

Academic Structure

The program is part of the College of Arts, which encompasses various schools and departments, including the School of Theatre, English, and Creative Writing, the School of Fine Art and Music, the School of Languages and Literatures, the Department of History, and the Department of Philosophy. The College also features interdisciplinary programs and is affiliated with several centres, institutes, and labs, such as the Centre for Scottish Studies, the Grounded and Engaged Theory Lab (GET), and the Humanities Interdisciplinary Collaboration Lab (THINC). This diverse academic environment provides students with a rich and multidisciplinary learning experience.