Lewis University

Lewis University’s Department of Theatre (College of Humanities, Fine Arts & Communication) offers a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre (128 total credits, approximately 41 in theatre coursework), blending academic study with immersive production experiences. Located in Romeoville, Illinois—just outside Chicago—Lewis provides students with both liberal arts insight and real-world theatrical exposure.

The department produces a season of five mainstage shows annually, supported by a community subscriber base. Additional performance opportunities include a Ten-Minute Play Festival, a student-run Fringe Festival, an improv troupe, and engagements with the Alumni Heritage Theatre Company and the in-residence AlphaBet Soup children’s theatre. All theatre majors participate via required practicum work—from props, sound, and stage management to acting, directing, dramaturgy, or publicity—earning credit while gaining hands-on experience.

Academically, the B.A. curriculum balances core theory and technical training. Required courses include Movement & Dance, Text Analysis, Voice & Diction, Acting I, Scene Technology, Stagecraft Practicums, Modern Drama, Theatre History I & II, and Principles of Directing . Students also complete electives and a capstone Career Preparation Practicum, which supports portfolio assembly, headshots, audition prep, résumé, and professional readiness.

Faculty mentors—including Chair Kevin Trudeau (theatre history and dramaturgy), design faculty Andrew Nelsen, and performance faculty such as Annie Calhoun—provide close mentorship and industry-informed instruction . With access to the Philip Lynch Theatre on campus, students rehearse and perform in a state-of-the-art facility and benefit from proximity to Chicago theaters, guest artists, and internship opportunities.

Graduates from Lewis University enter careers in acting, directing, design, theatre management, and education—or pursue graduate study—armed with strong collaborative skills, critical thinking, and production experience. The program also offers talent-based scholarships and connection to national opportunities such as the Kennedy Center American College Theatre Festival and Irene Ryan competitions.