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Emporia State School of Visual + Performing Arts

Theatre

Start Your Future on the Stage or Behind the Scenes

Emporia State University began producing theatre in 1913, making us one of the oldest theatre programs in the country. We have energetic students, enthusiastic community support and are proud to be a part of the School of Visual + Performing Arts where our students receive individual attention from our committed and celebrated faculty.

Here, you can earn a BFA or BA in theatre, or gain certification to become a secondary teacher in our BSE program in speech and theatre.

Through our affiliation with the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival, our students are part of a vital and thriving national theatre.

Productions

ESU Theatre puts on a variety of shows throughout the year from the annual Homecoming Musical to course-based and student-led productions. Past productions have included everything from student improv comedy to Macbeth to Urinetown.

Scholarships

There are a number of scholarships available to theatre majors and in some cases theatre minors. Scholarships are for freshmen and transfer students. Find more scholarship information.

Academic Programs

Three academic program options are available: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Secondary Education in Speech and Theatre. Your academic advisor will help you choose the path that best fits your goals.

ESU Theatre - Urinetown
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Theatre Calendar + Tickets

See upcoming theatre events and purchase tickets

Our Programs

Theatre-BA

Bachelor of Arts

The degree Bachelor of Arts with a major in Theatre is a rigorous general education experience as well as an introduction to central elements of theatre performance, production, design, and scholarship. Majors are required to contribute to all productions, either as actors or as members of the crew, provided they meet academic eligibility standards as established by the program.

Theatre-BFA

Bachelor of Fine Arts

Students will be prepared to pursue careers in acting, script, costuming and theatre productions. Majors are required to audition for productions and contribute to all productions, either in the cast or on a crew, provided they meet academic eligibility standards as established by the program.

Speech & Theatre Education (Grades 6-12)

Bachelor of Science in Education

The Bachelor of Science in Education with a teaching field of Speech and Theatre prepares you to teach speech, theatre, debate, forensics, and radio/television in grades 6-12.

Theatre

Minor

Courses in theatre are excellent supplements for students planning careers in education, business, psychology, counseling, public relations, communication, law, and other fields that require the ability to work exceptionally well with other people. The theatre minor is an appropriate choice for students in the humanities or fine arts who wish to deepen their understanding of their major fields, as well as science majors who are seeking a breadth of undergraduate experiences.
Students Practicing Makeup for Theatre

The theatre program at Emporia State University provides you with the history, skills and experience needed to pursue your educational and career goals. Step into the spotlight and start your successful future.

Apply Today