Theatre has a rich tradition at PennWest Clarion and in the community.
Theatre students are trained by seasoned professional actors, directors, choreographers, dancers and musicians. Their experience gives a practical perspective to aspiring theatre professionals. The program provides classroom and practical experience that enriches the lives of students and produces live theatre that enhances the cultural life of the university and surrounding community.
Students unlock their potential to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to flourish as an artist and to develop a love of learning that will follow them throughout life. Theatre faculty strive to provide a creative and collaborative working environment in which undergraduates receive the training and experience necessary to pursue careers in professional theatre.
The Department of Theatre offers:
- B.F.A. Theatre: Acting Concentration
- B.F.A. Theatre: Design Technical Director Concentration
- B.F.A. Theatre: Musical Theatre Concentration
- B.S. Integrative Studies: Arts and Entertainment Management Concentration
- B.S. Integrative Studies: Theatre Concentration
- Minor in Acting
- Minor in Technical Theatre
Theatre began with the College Players and was strengthened with the establishment of the Honorary Fraternity Alpha Psi Omega on Jan. 17, 1936. The tradition continues today with undergraduates winning awards at famous festivals across the United States and graduates making a name for themselves in all aspects of theatre.
THEATRE FACULTY:
Theatre Office —149 Marwick-Boyd
Open — 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Phone number — 1 814 393 2287
Fax — 1 814 393 1623
Nic Barilar
"I got to learn just about every aspect of theatre on a nearly daily basis. I was reading about it, and doing it. And my fellow majors and I talked about it constantly. We were totally immersed in the work of making theatre."
Courtney Chaplin
"My career is as a non-union stage manager for theatres in the Pittsburgh area. As a stage manager, I work on productions from beginning to end. I also work in the rehearsal room by organizing and keeping everyone on task as well as running productions when we get to the theatre."
Drew Leigh Williams
"The faculty and staff were fully invested in my education and the trajectory of my future career. They helped me see my potential and I appreciate that they didn't pigeon-hole me into one specific type of student or performer."
Darcie Buterbaugh
"The spark for working in the technical side of the theatre world was not ignited until I toured Clarion as a prospective student. Walking through the scene shop and costume shop showed me a world that I had not previously considered."