Department Description
The Department of Theatre offers the following degrees:
- Bachelor of Arts.
- Master of Arts centered in theatre history and dramatic literature or playwriting and dramaturgy.
- Master of Fine Arts in acting or design and technology.
The department has a unique mandate. It is the
only department in the state system of Missouri empowered to grant the M.F.A. degree in theatre, the terminal degree for candidates preparing
for a career in the professional theatre. Accordingly, the main thrust of the
department is its master of fine arts programs that prepare professional
actors, designers and technicians for the regional repertory and
commercial production companies of the United States. Training in the
master of fine arts programs is performance and production oriented. The unique
arrangement by which the Department of Theatre and the Kansas City Repertory Theatre
coexist, interact and support each other while using the same facilities
provides ideal opportunities for the candidates.
A training ensemble of experienced professionals is maintained to teach the
classes and address candidates' needs. In addition to the regular faculty,
guest directors and visiting teachers are brought in from the professional
world outside and from the ranks of the Kansas City Repertory Theatre to enhance
training opportunities. Accreditation is by the National Association
of Schools of Theater. The Department also is a member of the University/Resident Theatre Association.
