Department of Theatre Arts Mission Statement
The Department of Theatre Arts is committed to the highest standards of excellence in research. We specialize in research focused on underrepresented groups and areas. This research is explored in a variety of ways, including writing on migration, disability studies, race, gender, sexuality, religion, and transnationalism for academic and non-academic audiences, local, national, and international devising work on pressing social issues, and artistic productions highlighting underrepresented stories and experiences. With all faculty integrating theory and practice, we approach these topics through underrepresented, innovative, and interdisciplinary historiographical, theoretical, and artistic methodologies and collaborative practices committed to diversity and inclusion. The Department’s research, teaching, collaborations, and community outreach are driven by this intellectual vision.
In support of undergraduate and graduate learning and professionalization, we draw on a range of pedagogical approaches that are shaped by our research frameworks. The department supports students across three integrated programs: BA, Theatre Arts; MFA, Performance Pedagogy; PhD, Theatre and Performance Studies. Our curriculum is designed to foster collaboration and joint learning opportunities across all three programs in the classroom and production. We strive to create an inclusive, student-centered environment and seek to provide the widest possible spectrum of practical and educational opportunities to the theatre artists, scholars, and teachers of the future. We pursue our mission through rigorous, well-rounded coursework combined with direct practical experience in theatre research, performance, design, and production, as occasions for selfdevelopment and artistic challenge.
We prioritize diversity and inclusion in our curriculum, classrooms, and departmental productions and are committed to a diverse faculty and student body. We have structured the season selection process to ensure that our production choices are focused on the department’s pedagogical goals of giving practice in the history of performance and drama as well as promoting our goals of diversity, inclusion, and principles of equal opportunity for all who research, study, and work on departmental productions. We strongly view diversity of experience and perspective as critical and foundational for academic and artistic excellence, research innovation, and fostering a collaborative community within and beyond the department. We work to develop creative leaders in the cultural life of the university, national, and global community.