Assistant Professors Cuskey, Granger

The goals of the Theatre program are to provide a liberal arts education, pre-professional training in theatre, a cultural environment for the community, and opportunities for creative and research activities. Theatre is particularly related to the liberal arts because it embraces so many aspects of the human experience and comment so vividly on the human condition. Encompassed in the department’s approach to theatre is concern for the education of the individual and for career-oriented training.

The department produces a balanced season of classical and contemporary plays in the Main Theatre and Studio Theatre of the Chappelear Drama Center. Participation in these productions is open to the entire University community. Except in works specifics of race, ethnicity, or gender are required, casting is decided on ability alone. Classes are held in the CDC.

Courses in the department are designed to include all aspects of theatre, from history and theory through all phases of performance and production. Majors are required to have an inclusive theatre experience, as well as a liberal arts education.

To reinforce career-oriented training, all majors are urged to acquire an off-campus internship or study experience during the junior year or the first semester of the senior year. Those with an interest in theatre history might consider a research program or a junior year abroad in Europe. Majors with interests in acting/directing, design/production, or dance should consider the New York Arts Program or an independent off-campus internship in a regional repertory theatre company. Credit for the New York Arts Program counts as general university credit, not as credits completed in the major. OWU credit for an independent off-campus internship does count in the major.