Department of Theatre & Performance Studies
Theatre and Performance Studies: Great Stories Told Here!
Welcome to the Department of Theatre & Performance Studies (TPS). The scholar-artist is nurtured here. We believe the ideal theatre artist finds identity in both the classroom and in production. We want to meet our students where they are and encourage their growth and the pursuit of excellence in all facets of their work as undergraduate students. It comes with practice. And the practice that matters so much is to find balance among the many facets of theatre and performance.
We create together in two unique performance spaces: the Stillwell Theatre, a 315-seat proscenium theatre, and the Onyx Theatre, an intimate, flexible seating black box theatre. Our diverse season includes plays, musicals, spoken word performances, adaptations of classic literature, storytelling, improv comedy, and new works. Student generated work evolves from several student groups in the Department: KSU Tellers (storytelling), K.I.S.S. (improv), KSU Colors (various stories), and S.C.M.T (musical theatre).
Our students also work with a range of accomplished regional, national and international guest artists and scholars. Opportunities to study abroad include programs in Montepulciano, Italy, as well as in London, Paris, and at the Gaiety School of Acting, Ireland’s National Theatre School.
Our program offers students a BA degree with a choice of four concentrations: acting,
musical theatre, design/technology, and performance studies. These concentrations
allow students to create their own path to pursue their passions. Our unique curriculum,
grounded in the professional practice of theatre and performance studies, encourages
students to investigate and question circumstance.
Our coursework sharpens a student’s ability to critically observe the world. We develop skills in creative problem solving, critical thinking, collaboration, presentation skills, conflict resolution, and empathy. We improve through practice. Our faculty of professional scholars and artists work to create partnerships, internships, service learning, undergraduate research, and student job opportunities with the top arts organizations in our region.
Whether you are a prospective student or a theatre patron, I would welcome the opportunity to tell you more about who we are and what we do. Come join us to see how we use craft and curiosity to create unique storytelling.
Chuck Meacham
Chair and Professor
Department of Theatre & Performance Studies
cmeacham@kennesaw.edu
