About the program

BFA Acting

acting

At Shenandoah Conservatory of Shenandoah University, the BFA acting program familiarizes students with the varying historic periods of theatre and their corresponding acting styles; compares different schools of acting training to the writings and teaching methods of Constantin Stanislavski; and prepares the students to enter the profession of acting in both regional and New York City settings.

The performance skills of each student are enhanced with training in movement, improvisation, voice and speech, accents and dialects, and period styles anchored by a strong exposure to Shakespeare's texts. Technical theatre, costuming and make-up will all be studied. They must also take directing, required dance courses and, in many cases, can develop their singing voices, stage combat, and mime. Their education is supported by general education courses in diverse fields offered by Shenandoah University, including English courses focusing on Shakespeare and drama. SU's commitment to creating global citizens will widen students' worldview. Students through all four years can audition for the theatre season, touring shows, children's shows, student productions, operas and additional productions mounted by the faculty. There is also a student-run improvisation group on campus. The theatre profession is introduced in the business-of-the-business courses, through regular discussion and guest speakers. Students have the opportunity to attend theatre productions and workshops in New York City, Washington D.C., and the American Shakespeare Center's Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton, Va., on faculty-led trips. The professional faculty will push students toward their potential and share life-in-the-profession stories throughout the training. Knowledge of plays is cultivated through summer reading lists, class assignments, and scene development. Graduates have gone directly into New York and regional productions, national tours, cruise ship contracts and are given the skills to become working members of the theatre profession.

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