What is a theatre studies major?

There is no better way to build empathy than by looking at the world through the perspectives of others – and at Furman you can do just that with a major in theatre studies. Our students gain a greater appreciation of the theatre world through analysis, observation and interaction in a way that provides broader context across multidisciplinary perspectives on theatre as a globalized art form. This program emphasizes scholarly analysis and introduces students to the broader field of theatre through exploration of literature, critique and creative skills.

Take your first steps by contacting admissions or reading more about how to apply.

Why study theatre studies at Furman?

The study of liberal arts is meant to help students shape their understanding of a globalized society, and theatre studies is a natural way to accomplish that through the lens of a fine arts education. By integrating knowledge of other subjects with theatre, you become an expert on every show you engage with deeply. Students who work with us gain critical thinking and problem-solving skills, teamwork, communication, collaboration, and a greater appreciation of a life of learning through practical and scholarly approaches to theatrical work.

Our signature approach to the liberal arts and sciences means you’ll collaborate with professors who know your name, and you’ll receive one-on-one instruction to learn the basics. You’ll come away from the program with a stronger foundation than most theatre studies students in programs at larger institutions who don’t receive personalized attention in their introductory courses.

Plan a visit to Furman’s beautiful campus or start your application today.

How will you learn?

Through Performance, Design & Technology, History/Literature/Criticism Studies, and Engaged Learning opportunities, theatre studies students become a jack-of-all-trades. Team up with faculty on research through a fellowship in theatrical production. Study away with professors in Arezzo, Italy, or get an up-close look at Shakespeare’s birthplace and take in Royal Shakespeare Company productions while you study in the British Isles. Gain opportunities to incorporate multi-disciplinary approaches by integrating your studies with other departments through a theatrical lens. Apply what you are learning in class to a production experience. And develop a creative project that takes your interests in story development to the next level.

Theatre studies major courses

The theatre studies major offers a robust range of options in the course catalog. Here are a few sample courses:

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Theatre Studies FAQ

  • 4
    Productions per Year
  • 93%
    of Students Who Participate in an Engaged Learning Experience
  • 80%
    of Students Who Participate in Study Away
  • 6
    Research Fellowships in Theatrical Production Each Year

What our students say

“The opportunity to major in theatre studies makes me feel like I have more of a say in what I am learning.”
- Sara Lowe ‘26

Our faculty

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Jason Adkins

Lecturer
Sarah Archino

Sarah Archino

Department Chair, Associate Professor of Art History
Maegan Azar

Maegan Azar

Professor of Acting & Directing; Theatre Arts Department Chair
Alan Bryson

Alan Bryson

Designer; Technical Director; Counselor
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Rhett Bryson

Professor of Scenic & Lighting Design
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Margaret Caterisano

Professor of Costume Design
White woman in her early 30s with long auburn hair wearing a light blue blazer

Caroline J. Davis

Visiting Lecturer, Theatre Arts and Education
Head shot of Ross McClain

Ross McClain

Professor of Art and Design
Dr. Oakes

Margaret Oakes

Professor of English; Chair of the Humanities Interdisciplinary Minor
A man wearing glasses and smiling with a jacket on.

Nicholas Radel

Professor of English
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