UCA Theatre

The UCA Theatre program is rooted in the liberal arts tradition. Theatre students are at their best when they understand completely the theoretical, historical and practical elements of the theatre. Equally important, it is essential that students grasp the historical and social traditions which created and continue to sustain the theatre as an art form.

The program promotes active student involvement in all areas of production including acting, stage management, scenery, costumes, lights, sound, props, or management. Our production program is co-curricular, providing a creative forum where theories learned in the classroom can be applied.

Generally, three faculty-directed productions are mounted per year, a children’s touring show, one student produced and directed production, and a series of student-directed one-acts. Opportunities for practical experience for student actors, directors, and designers abound.

UCA Theatre is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre. This accreditation assures students and parents that the UCA Theatre program meets professional standards of quality in Theatre education and training as set forth by the Association.

Each semester the theatre program awards a limited number of performance scholarships. These scholarships vary in amount and are awarded to students who have the potential to contribute leadership to our production program by filling staff positions as performers, technicians, and production assistants. Scholarships are available to all theatre majors and minors who meet academic qualifications and are renewable on a semester to semester basis.

There are a number of paid staff positions available in scenery, lights, costumes, props, and theatre management. Some of these positions are available through the Federal Work Study program. UCA Theatre also has a limited number of paid staff positions for skilled workers regardless of their eligibility for financial aid. Students interested in these positions should contact the Director of Theatre to apply.