York University Theatre Program

York University offers a combined Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Theatre through its School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design. All students begin with a shared first year in a general Theatre curriculum—covering core areas like acting, stagecraft, and introductory theatre theory—before selecting a specialized pathway in their second year.

Starting in year two, students choose one of four streams: Acting, Production & Design, Performance Creation, or Theatre Studies. This structure allows students to tailor their education according to their interests while preserving flexibility for interdisciplinary exploration. Each pathway emphasizes hands-on learning and collaborative development in both classroom and studio settings.

Academic study is grounded in practice and performance. The program includes two mainstage productions each year—typically a comedy in the fall and a drama in the spring—as well as student-directed one-act plays and a touring children’s theatre program. These performance opportunities give students real-world experience in acting, design, directing, and backstage roles.

York’s campus includes the Bartholomew Performing Arts Center, a central venue featuring a 350-seat flexible black-box theatre, dedicated rehearsal halls, costume and prop shops, and technical studios. These facilities provide a professional environment for students to refine their craft in both performance and production.

Graduates emerge with robust performance and production portfolios, practical technical skills, and creative training aligned with Toronto’s vibrant arts community. The program’s first-year general track encourages exploration and community building before specialization, supporting students in discovering their strengths and artistic goals. York University’s Theatre Program prepares students for careers in acting, design, education, production, and beyond.