Department Description
The Department of Theatre offers a bachelor of arts degree and a master of
arts degree centered in theater history and dramatic literature or
playwriting and dramaturgy. It also offers a master of fine arts degree in acting, design or
technology. The department has a unique mandate. It is the
only department in the state university 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 theater. 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 candidates.
A training ensemble of experienced professionals is maintained to teach
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 Theatre. The Department is also a member of the University/Resident Theatre Association.