Northern Illinois University

The theatre program at Northern Illinois University (NIU) is a nationally respected, pre-professional program that offers intensive training in the performing and technical arts within a comprehensive liberal arts framework. Housed in the NIU School of Theatre and Dance, the program prepares students for careers in professional theatre, television, film, and education by combining conservatory-style instruction with academic depth and artistic exploration.

Students at NIU can pursue Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degrees in Acting or Design and Technology, as well as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theatre Studies. The BFA in Acting is a rigorous, performance-driven program that includes training in movement, voice, acting for the camera, classical techniques, and ensemble performance. The BFA in Design and Technology focuses on areas such as scenic, lighting, costume, sound design, and stage management, with students working on fully realized productions from their first year. The BA program provides a broader exploration of theatre, ideal for students interested in playwriting, directing, education, or pursuing a double major.

NIU’s theatre season is robust, producing multiple full-scale productions each academic year across several campus venues, including the Stevens Building’s newly renovated black box and proscenium theatres. These shows span classical works, contemporary plays, musicals, and new student-created projects, giving students diverse performance and technical experiences. Students participate in every facet of production, gaining hands-on experience and professional-level training.

A distinctive feature of the program is its long-standing partnership with the Moscow Art Theatre School in Russia. Select BFA Acting students have the opportunity to study abroad for a semester, gaining classical training from one of the world’s most respected theatre institutions. Additionally, NIU hosts guest artists and industry professionals throughout the year for workshops, masterclasses, and networking.

Overall, Northern Illinois University’s theatre program offers a challenging and immersive environment where students can grow as artists and thinkers. With a strong faculty, global training opportunities, and a commitment to professional standards, the program equips graduates for success on stage, behind the scenes, and in further academic or artistic pursuits.