Major Requirements

The purpose of the major is to provide students with a theoretical knowledge and appreciation of the history and literature of the theatre. In addition, students are instructed and given hands-on experience in production and promotion of theatrical events. The theatre is one of the oldest art forms in existence, and students learn valuable information about the way various disparate societies have evolved throughout the ages.

Students are expected to work on productions as performers and technicians. The theatre department actively tries to cultivate well-rounded theatre students who are knowledgeable in all areas of theatre.
 

Goals for the Major

• An understanding of the development of dramatic literature from the Greeks to the present. 
• Problem solving independently and within an ensemble
• Developing the humanist/artist and theatre practitioner for the next generation 
• Providing a framework for artistic collaboration
• Inspiring critical thinking and artistic rigor
• Developing comprehensive knowledge of the elements of design and stagecraft
• Competence to compete with conservatory-trained graduates for graduate school or casting/hiring opportunities within the industry 
   

Major Requirements

Students who plan to major in Theatre Studies must take a minimum of 10 units.

These 10 units must be comprised of:

1 course in Acting (ex. 204, 214, 305, 315, 345)

1 course in Directing (ex. 206, 306)

1 course in Playwrighting (ex. 200, 221, 321)

1 course in Design/Technical Craft (ex. 207, 208, 209, 222, 300, 345)

1 course in Critical Analysis (104, 212, 215, 245)

2 courses at the 300 level.

At least eight of these ten units must come from within the Wellesley theatre studies program, unless a semester-long study abroad conservatory intensive for four credits max is approved by the program director. The major requires a minimum of two 300-level courses to be completed within the Wellesley program. 

Developments in the theatre arts are a result of stage experiments. The theatre performance is an expression of theatre scholarship. It is expected that students planning a major in theatre will elect to complement formal study of theatre with practical experience in the production program of the College Theatre and related on-campus producing organizations, and - if offered the opportunity - through paid internships for the professional Wellesley Repertory Theatre company. All majors have the option to propose participation in THST 250 and THST 350 individual study offerings in order to pursue more deeply their particular area of theatrical interest. 

No Minor Offered in Theatre Studies: However! Participation in all department activities and productions is open to all. Come play with us - the process is its own reward!