University of Southern Indiana

The University of Southern Indiana offers both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in Theatre Arts through its Philip H. Hagemann Performing Arts Department. From day one, students dive into hands-on training across acting, directing, design, technical theatre, and playwriting—supported by faculty who actively work in professional theatre rather than just graduate students. Students begin participating in productions as freshmen and form tight-knit, collaborative cohorts that enhance learning and creative growth.

USI Theatre stages four mainstage shows per academic year, along with additional student-directed productions in the intimate Mallette Studio Theatre. These productions span a broad range of genres, including classic plays, contemporary dramas, musicals, and innovative ensemble works. A highlight is the Repertory Project, where students perform alongside Actors’ Equity professionals—gaining Equity points and invaluable real-world mentorship.

All shows are mounted in the university’s Performance Center—a sophisticated, nearly 300‑ to 350‑seat thrust-stage facility with cutting-edge lighting, sound technology, and acoustics, opened in 2015. This facility, along with dedicated design studios and production shops, offers undergraduates professional-level training environments that mirror industry standards.

Faculty leadership, including chair and scenic designer Paul Weimer, musical theatre professor Joshua Robinson, and head of acting Eric Altheide, bring award-winning real-world experience from Broadway and regional theatre. They mentor students through every aspect of theatrical production—from performance to stagecraft. The program also offers hands-on opportunities in choreography, costume, technical operation, and producing. USI Theatre additionally launched its first summer season in 2025, demonstrating a commitment to expanding student engagement beyond the academic year