Bachelor of Arts Program
Program Code: BA-AS
Major Code: THA

Theater Department
Donald Savage Theater Building 215
(716) 878-6416
theater.buffalostate.edu/

National Association of Schools of Theater (Accredited)

The Theater Department engages students in a wide variety of hands-on projects and activities, giving them the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios. A student’s classroom learning and engagement is supported by coordinating professional opportunities with area theaters and dance companies, providing access to mentorships and internships, and ensuring access to hands-on experience on our productions starting in their very first semester. 

The department emphasizes artistry, pushing boundaries, and fostering diversity, equity, and compassion. Through advisement, students’ training can be general or have an emphasis in acting, directing, dance, playwriting, stage management, design, or technical theater. High standards afford a foundation for careers in professional theater, television, film, dance, and graduate admissions. A 19-credit-hour minor in theater and dance is also available.

Program Requirements

Students will:

1. be involved in the creation and presentation of public performances in the theater
2. develop visual and aural perceptions related to theater performances, as well as a structured approach (through linguistics) to the use of language in playwriting and the resultant script
3. understand basic production processes such as acting; directing; stage, costume, lighting and sound design; and basic technical operations related to productions
4. become familiar with the historical and cultural dimensions of theater, including the works of leading playwrights, actors, directors, and designers both past and present
5. understand and evaluate contemporary thinking about theater and related arts
6. make informed assessments of quality in works of theater
7. become familiar with and develop competence in a number of theater techniques