Department of Theatre and Dance

• To provide a rigorous pre-professional BFA theatre training program to talented and qualified aspiring theatre professionals.
• To create university theatrical productions of the highest standard
  which challenge student artists and audiences with plays of depth and vibrancy that illuminate the strengths, frailties and diversity of the human condition.
• To establish and maintain education and outreach programs for all
  ages consistent with the artistic mission of the department.
• To play a vital role in the cultural life of the Willamette Valley, Salem
  and the region.

BFA Core Curriculum (48 Credit Hours)

TA 165 Production Dynamics (3)
TA 166 Text Analysis and Scene Study (3)
TA 167 Play Reading (3)

TA 244 Technical Theatre: Scenecraft (3)
TA 245 Technical Theatre: Lighting (3)
TA 246 Technical Theatre: Costuming (3)

TA 265 Acting I or TA 251 Elements of Acting (3)
TA 364 Play Direction (3)

Chose Five: (15)
TA 381 Greek, Roman and Medieval Theatre
TA 382 Renaissance Theatre
TA 383 European Theatre 1660-1875
TA 384 European Theatre 1875-Present
TA 385 American Theatre
TA 386 International Theatre

TA  395, 396, 397 Special Studies—Plays in Progress (6)

TA 453 Capstone Experience (3)

BFA Production Training (71 Credit Hours)

A 131 Beginning Drawing Systems (3)
A 204, 205, 206 Art History Sequence (9)
TA 247 Technical Theatre: Sound (3)
TA 252 Technical Theatre: Makeup (3)
TA 253 Production Workshop (3)
TA 308 History of Fashion (3)
TA 334 Stage Management (3)
TA 336 Stage Properties (3)
TA 338 History of Architecture and Decor (3)
TA 343 Costume Design (3)
TA 345 Scenic Painting I (3)
TA 346 Scenic Design (3)
TA 348 Lighting Design (3)
TA 353 Advanced Production Workshop (6)
TA 412 Portfolio Review (1)

Choose one: (4)
TA 354 Production Design
TA 355 Production Management

Approved production electives (15)
A 135 Beginning Life Drawing (3)
A 231 Introduction to Drawing (3)
TA 344 Costume Crafts (3)
TA 347 Drafting for Theatre (3)
TA 349 Scenic Design Studio (3)
TA 436 Advanced Costume Techniques (3)
TA 443 Advanced Costume Design (3)
TA 445 Scenic Painting II (3)
TA 446 Advanced Scenic Design: CAD (3)
TA 447 Digital Imagery for Theatre (3)
TA 448 Advanced Lighting Design (3)

A minor is not required for a B.F.A. in Theatre.

To be considered for the BFA Program all students must:

• Submit an application to the Western Oregon University BFA prior to the scheduled audition/interview date. Interviews are at the beginning of Fall term every year.
• Download application here. Example of resume.
• Have taken or be in the process of taking TA 165 Production Dynamics and TA 166 Text Analysis. (Transfer students must consult with an advisor.)
• Submit the following:
• Letter of intent, providing highlights of previous theatre experience and plans for future development.
• Resume.
• Recommendation numbers from one or two teachers or directors or other theatre professionals familiar with the students work and potential.

The above must be submitted at least one day prior to the scheduled audition/interview date.

Costume, Light, Set Design; Stage Management, Technical Theatre Preparation:

• Admittance to the BFA in Theatre—Costume, Light, Set Design; Stage Management or Technical Theatre is based on an interview with the theatre department faculty. 

• On the day of the interview, arrive at least fifteen minutes prior to the scheduled time of registration and general session.  The length of the interview is approximately twenty minutes.