Anderson University

Anderson University in Indiana offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Arts in Theatre—plus a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting and a B.A. or B.M. in Musical Theatre—within its Christian liberal arts framework. The program is situated in the School of Music, Theatre & Dance and emphasizes faith-based values alongside rigorous theatrical training. Small class sizes, early audition opportunities (as early as the second semester), and accessible mentorship foster individual growth in a supportive environment.

Students in the B.A. in Theatre engage in a curriculum combining voice, acting, design, directing, and technical theatre, alongside theatre history and dramatic writing. The B.F.A. in Acting curriculum includes classical and contemporary techniques—from Stanislavski and Meisner to Chekhov—along with voice and movement training tailored for stage and screen. Musical Theatre students are trained as true “triple threats,” completing two fully produced musicals annually in performance, singing, dance, and musicianship disciplines.

Performance opportunities are plentiful across the academic year: productions include mainstage plays, musicals, and studio shows. Venue highlights include Byrum Hall, Belk Theatre, and Henderson Auditorium, where a variety of productions—such as Guys and Dolls, Edges, Murder on the Orient Express, and student cabarets—showcase student talent under the direction of both faculty and guest artists. Masterclasses, industry professionals, and guest directors further augment learning and professional preparation.

Students benefit from early access to productions (many begin auditions in their first year), a Senior Showcase in front of industry professionals, and a network of internship-readiness opportunities. Faculty mentorship supports creative exploration as well as career planning in fields such as performance, design, directing, dramaturgy, arts administration, and education. Graduates emerge with confidence, adaptability, critical thinking, and interpersonal strength shaped by both artistic and ethical training.

Located in Anderson, Indiana, Anderson University’s theatre program is known for its close-knit Christian campus culture and personalized student attention. While it brings strong performance and technical instruction in a mission-driven environment, prospective students should consider the faith-based ethos and community values as part of the overall educational experience.