Emporia State University

Emporia State University offers a robust, production-driven Theatre Arts Program within its School of Visual & Performing Arts. Established over a century ago, this historic program balances academic study with performance-based training. Undergraduates are immersed in acting, design, script analysis, stagecraft, voice, movement, and dramaturgy. Faculty mentorship and peer collaboration help students develop creative and scholarly depth through both classroom learning and real-world practice.

Students participate actively in all departmental productions, contributing either onstage or behind the scenes. Production practicum courses train majors to prepare for live theatre through supervised rehearsals, design labs, and technical crew roles. Senior capstone projects allow students to lead creative or scholarly undertakings, culminating their undergraduate experience.

The Theatre Arts Program consistently stages multiple productions annually across campus venues like the Karl C. Bruder Theatre and King Hall facilities. Productions range from classical plays to modern dramas and musicals. Additional performance opportunities include University Theatre Lab workshops and collaborative campus arts events.

The program encourages community engagement and professional exposure through guest artists, masterclasses, and outreach partnerships within Emporia. Developed with an eye toward real-world application, students gain performance, technical, and leadership skills essential for both further study and creative careers.

Graduates leave equipped with well-rounded portfolios in performance, design, direction, and dramaturgy. The program’s structure prepares students for careers in theatre, arts administration, education, or graduate studies. Its emphasis on mentorship, practical training, and liberal arts integration makes it a standout program in Kansas and the Midwest.