Theatre

Overview

Program objectives

Fundamentally, the Theatre program at The Ohio State University nurtures creativity while fostering critical inquiry, which is essential to the creation of innovative live performance.

• Students will exhibit broad knowledge, appreciation and understanding of live theatrical performance as a diverse and malleable art form that can influence history, culture, politics and society.
• Students will understand the technical, physical and vocal skills required by live performers and develop these skills in practical and theoretical contexts.
• Students will understand the design, technology and management skills involved in theatrical production and develop these skills in practical and theoretical contexts.
• Students will develop critical faculties as audience members and be able to encounter each theatrical work on its own terms.
• Students will obtain experiences creating work as generative theatre practitioners.
• Students will grasp the terrain of contemporary theatre practice and be prepared to apply their education to professional life or study.

Possible careers

The basic skills of theatre making are broadly applicable to a variety of careers. Theatre graduates are practiced interpersonal communicators, project managers, writers, team leaders, and public speakers. Graduates are prepared for careers in the performing arts industry and beyond, as well as for graduate study. 

Some graduates direct, design and write for the theatre; others work as stage managers, theatre technicians, dramaturgs, box office managers, teaching artists and arts administrators. Beyond the theatre, graduates are often employed where expertise in theatre is valued, such as at theme parks, museums, digital media companies and educational institutions.