Freed-Hardeman University

Freed-Hardeman University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre with two areas of emphasis: Performance and Design/Production. The program integrates rigorous artistic training with a foundation in Christian faith, encouraging students to explore how their beliefs influence their creative work. Whether students aim to act, direct, design, or teach, the program fosters the development of both skill and purpose in a supportive, values-driven environment.

The core curriculum includes courses such as Introduction to Theatre, Technical Theatre Production, Theatre Lab, History of Theatre, Directing, and Theatre and the Christian. As students advance, they participate in internships, capstone projects, and a variety of labs that provide real-world production experience. The curriculum is structured to ensure students gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice in all major areas of theatre.

Students choosing the Performance emphasis focus on courses like Acting I through III, Voice Training, and additional performance-based labs. Those in the Design/Production track dive into subjects such as World Building, Studio Drawing, and scenic painting. For students interested in education, the Performance emphasis also offers a path to teaching licensure, which includes courses in creative dramatics for children and specialized practicum work.

Freed-Hardeman’s theatre program produces a diverse season of plays and musicals, featuring works from classical to contemporary theatre. Students actively participate in all aspects of production, from acting and directing to stagecraft and design. The Theatre Patron Program offers discounted tickets to students and helps support production costs, making live performance an accessible and vibrant part of campus life.

The program is committed to developing “believer-artists” who are equipped for both professional success and spiritual growth. Faculty mentorship, small class sizes, and post-production reflection create an environment where students can grow artistically and personally. Opportunities such as participation in the Edinburgh Festival Fringe provide broader exposure to global theatre, reinforcing the program’s goal of preparing students for impactful and meaningful careers in the arts.