School of Theatre and Dance

For aspiring artists and technicians in West Virginia, the School of Theatre and Dance at West Virginia University (WVU) in Morgantown stands as a dynamic and comprehensive educational institution. As a vital component of WVU's esteemed College of Creative Arts, this school provides an enriching environment where students can immerse themselves in the diverse traditions and practices of theatre and dance. It’s a place where creativity meets rigorous academic training, offering a unique blend of hands-on experience, scholarly inquiry, and artistic exploration. Whether your dream is to grace the stage as an actor or dancer, design breathtaking sets and costumes, illuminate performances with innovative lighting, or manage the intricate behind-the-scenes magic, the School of Theatre and Dance offers pathways to turn those aspirations into reality.

The School of Theatre and Dance prides itself on cultivating a collaborative and challenging atmosphere. With a robust curriculum and a strong emphasis on practical application, students are encouraged to engage vigorously and innovatively with the many processes of collaborative theatre and dance. The faculty, comprised of accomplished professionals and scholars, are dedicated to mentoring students on a one-to-one basis, providing personalized guidance within the expansive resources of a major research university. For locals in West Virginia contemplating a career in the performing arts, or simply looking to deepen their understanding and appreciation of theatre and dance, WVU’s School of Theatre and Dance offers an unparalleled opportunity to develop as a creative artist and contribute meaningfully to the world.

The School of Theatre and Dance at West Virginia University is strategically located at 1436 Evansdale Dr, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA. This address places it firmly within WVU's sprawling Evansdale Campus, making it highly accessible for students and visitors from across Morgantown and the broader West Virginia region. The Evansdale Campus is well-connected to various parts of the city via public transportation, including the PRT (Personal Rapid Transit) system, which links it to the Downtown Campus and other key university areas. For those driving, the location on Evansdale Drive offers relatively straightforward access from major roads in Morgantown. Ample parking facilities are available on the Evansdale Campus, though it's always advisable to check WVU's parking regulations and availability, especially during peak university hours or special events. Being part of a larger university campus means students and visitors also benefit from the extensive infrastructure and amenities available at WVU. This accessible location ensures that aspiring theatre and dance professionals from all corners of West Virginia can easily reach this creative hub to pursue their educational and artistic endeavors.

The School of Theatre and Dance at West Virginia University offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs, designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills for a diverse range of careers in the performing arts.

Services Offered (Academic Programs and Areas of Study):

• Undergraduate Programs:
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Dance: A liberal arts-focused program offering in-depth study of various dance genres (Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Hip-hop, World Dance), choreography, dance history, criticism, and related subjects like nutrition and yoga. Opportunities for double majoring and tracks in Dance Science and Dance Education.
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Acting: A pre-professional, production-oriented training program with a rigorous curriculum for aspiring actors.
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Musical Theatre: Combines acting, singing, and dance training for students aiming for careers in musical theatre.
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Theatre Design and Technology: Specializations available in areas such as Scenic Design & Technology, Costume Design & Technology, Lighting Design & Technology, and Technical Direction.
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theatre: A broader theatre studies program that can be combined with other interests.
• Graduate Programs (Master of Fine Arts - MFA): These are terminal degrees designed for advanced, professional training.
  • MFA in Acting: A 3-year, 6-semester program focusing on intensive performance training.
  • MFA in Costume Design & Technology: Advanced studies in costume design, construction, and related technologies.
  • MFA in Lighting Design & Technology: Specializing in the artistic and technical aspects of theatrical lighting.
  • MFA in Scenic Design & Technology: In-depth study of set design, construction, and scenic artistry.
  • MFA in Technical Direction: Focusing on the practical execution and management of theatrical productions.
• Minors:
  • Dance Minor: For students pursuing other majors who wish to continue their dance training.
  • Theatre Minor: For students interested in theatre studies outside of a major.
• Performance Opportunities: Regular mainstage theatre productions, dance concerts (e.g., "Dance Now!"), musical theatre performances, and informal showcases throughout the academic year.
• Hands-on Production Experience: Students are actively involved in the creation of sets, costumes, lighting, and stage management for numerous productions each year.
• Study Abroad Opportunities: Available through the WVU Office of Global Affairs for dance students.
• Youth Academies: Summer programs like the WVU Summer Dance Academy and WVU Youth Theatre Academy.

The West Virginia University School of Theatre and Dance offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for students and a valuable asset to the local community in West Virginia.

Features / Highlights:

• Part of a Major Research University: Students benefit from the personal instruction and focused attention of a smaller, dedicated arts school while having access to the vast resources, diverse academic offerings, and vibrant campus life of a major research institution like West Virginia University.
• Production-Oriented, Pre-Professional Training: The school emphasizes hands-on learning within a rigorous production environment. Students are deeply immersed in practical aspects, building impressive portfolios of realized work across 8-10 shows produced annually.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Housed primarily within the Loulie, Valerie and William Canady Creative Arts Center (CCAC), the school has access to multiple performance venues, including:
  • Lyell B. Clay Concert Theatre: The largest venue in the CCAC, hosting music, musical theatre, and dance performances.
  • Antoinette E. Falbo Theatre: A flexible space with movable seating for various productions and classes.
  • Gladys G. Davis Theatre: Creates immersive experiences for theatre and dance productions.
  • Vivian Davis Michael Laboratory Theatre: Used for alternative and smaller-scale works.
  • Mary Katherine Wiedebusch Dance Studio: Features a sprung Marley floor, ample natural light, and a new sound system.
  Beyond theatres, students also work in 6 shops and 4 labs, including a dedicated scene shop where sets are designed and built on-site.
• One-to-One Mentoring: The program offers a personalized approach with close mentoring relationships between students and faculty, ensuring tailored guidance and support.
• Accreditation: The theatre and dance programs are fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST), ensuring adherence to high national standards for arts education. The dance program is also affiliated with the American College Dance Association (ACDA), CORPS de Ballet International, and the National Dance Education Organization (NDEO).
• Experienced and Diverse Faculty: The faculty comprises experienced professionals with varied backgrounds and specializations (e.g., Theatre History, Literature, & Criticism; Lighting & Sound Design; Dance & Musical Theatre; Voice for the Actor), bringing a wide range of knowledge and real-world experience to the classroom.
• Performance Opportunities: Students have extensive opportunities to perform in mainstage productions, annual dance concerts like "Dance Now!", and informal showcases, gaining valuable stage experience.
• BFA Showcase in NYC: BFA Acting and Musical Theatre seniors have the opportunity to showcase their talents in a New York City showcase, providing a vital bridge to professional careers.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: The BA Dance program, in particular, encourages cross-disciplinary studies, allowing students to integrate their dance education with other academic interests.

For those in West Virginia interested in connecting with the School of Theatre and Dance at West Virginia University, here is their contact information:

Address: 1436 Evansdale Dr, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA

Phone: (304) 293-2020

Mobile Phone: +1 304-293-2020

The West Virginia University School of Theatre and Dance is an ideal choice for locals in West Virginia seeking higher education in the performing arts for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its integration within a major land-grant university means students receive a broad, liberal arts education alongside their specialized artistic training. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates are not only skilled artists but also well-rounded individuals with critical thinking abilities, prepared for diverse career paths and lifelong learning. For West Virginians who wish to pursue a high-quality arts education without leaving their home state, WVU offers the best of both worlds: a focused conservatory-like experience within a large university setting.

Secondly, the School's commitment to hands-on, production-oriented learning is a significant advantage. Students are actively involved in building sets, designing costumes, and performing in numerous productions each year. This practical experience is invaluable for developing professional readiness and building a strong portfolio, which are essential for entering the competitive fields of theatre and dance. The access to multiple state-of-the-art theatres, shops, and labs within the Canady Creative Arts Center provides an unparalleled learning environment right here in Morgantown.

Furthermore, the personalized instruction and one-to-one mentoring from experienced faculty members ensure that each student receives individualized attention and guidance. This close interaction with dedicated professionals can significantly enhance a student's artistic growth and career trajectory. The opportunities to perform in mainstage productions and, for BFA seniors, to showcase their talents in New York City, provide crucial exposure and networking possibilities that are vital for launching a professional career in the arts.

Finally, as an accredited institution by the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST), the School upholds national standards of excellence, assuring West Virginia students and their families of the quality and rigor of their education. Choosing WVU's School of Theatre and Dance means investing in a top-tier performing arts education right in their home state, offering a vibrant community, unparalleled facilities, and strong pathways to success in the dynamic world of theatre and dance. It truly is a place where West Virginia's artistic talent can flourish.

School of Theatre and Dance

1436 Evansdale Dr, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA