Theatre and Performance Simon Fraser University

Overview

The Theatre and Performance programme at Simon Fraser University provides an immersive environment for aspiring artists to develop their creative voice within a professional studio setting. Students explore a diverse range of disciplines including acting, movement, and social practice to prepare for the complexities of the modern stage. This Bachelor of Fine Arts degree emphasises both individual expression and collaborative production techniques.

Based in the vibrant heart of downtown Vancouver, the curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between academic study and professional practice. The School for the Contemporary Arts fosters a community where students are encouraged to experiment with site-specific work and public engagement.

Why Theatre and Performance at Simon Fraser University?

Students benefit from the university's prime location at the Goldcorp Centre for the Arts, situated in a major cultural hub. This unique setting allows for direct engagement with the local arts scene and professional theatre companies in the Lower Mainland. The programme is distinguished by its workplace initiatives, which invite students to participate in professional environments and build industry connections before graduation.

The final year of the programme is dedicated to a significant capstone project, where students spend two semesters researching and developing original work. This culminates in the Live Acts festival, a public showcase that allows students to produce and perform their own thesis projects for a real-world audience. Such practical experience is central to the university's commitment to developing versatile and industry-ready practitioners.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 37442 per year
• National fee: CAD 7502 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Acting
• Movement
• Performance Creation
• Site-Specific Show Making
• Social Practice
• Working with the Public
• Research Methods
• Studio Experiments
• Capstone Project

Careers with Theatre and Performance

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a variety of roles within the creative industries, drawing on their extensive training in production and performance. The curriculum supports pathways into professional acting, directing, and independent creation. By engaging with theatre companies throughout their studies, students often transition into roles within established arts organisations or launch their own performance collectives.

The focus on social practice and public engagement also opens doors to careers in community arts, cultural programming, and arts administration. The experience gained through the Live Acts festival provides a portfolio of work that demonstrates high-level project management and creative leadership skills to potential employers in the global arts sector.