Best BA Theatre Programs in the US?

Hey there! I'm really passionate about theatre and want to study it in college. Can anyone recommend the best BA Theatre programs in the US? If you're a current or former student, I'd love to hear about your experiences and what you love about your school's program!

Hello! It's fantastic that you're looking to pursue your passion for theatre in college. There are many excellent BA Theatre programs in the US, but here are some schools that consistently stand out for their exceptional programs:

1. Carnegie Mellon University: Known for producing award-winning actors, set designers, and playwrights, CMU's School of Drama offers a comprehensive theatre education. Many students appreciate the broad training they receive in various aspects of theatre, such as acting, directing, production, and design.

2. New York University: NYU's Tisch School of the Arts offers a BA in Drama that focuses on enriching students' artistic, intellectual, and personal growth as artists. Students have the opportunity to collaborate with top professionals in the field, and the program's location in New York City offers exciting networking and internship opportunities.

3. Yale University: With its prestigious Yale School of Drama, Yale is renowned for producing talented actors, playwrights, and directors. Although the undergraduate theatre program is not housed within the School of Drama, which is for graduate students, the Theater Studies Program allows students to focus on theatre while having access to the resources and connections of the School of Drama.

4. University of Southern California: USC's School of Dramatic Arts offers a BA in Theatre that balances traditional training with innovative methods and techniques. The school helps students access internships, workshops, and networking opportunities within the Los Angeles' thriving theatre scene, where USC has many industry connections.

5. Northwestern University: Northwestern's Theatre major is part of the School of Communication, and provides a strong foundation in the skills needed for a multifaceted career in the performing arts. The program offers coursework in acting, directing, design, and theatre history, as well as opportunities to participate in productions and study abroad programs.

6. Boston University: BU's School of Theatre in the College of Fine Arts features a BA in Theatre Arts that offers a broad education in theatre practice and theory. Students have the chance to collaborate on productions and develop their voices as artists, while also receiving personalized attention from faculty.

As you explore these schools and others, be sure to visit their websites and, if possible, attend open houses or campus tours to get a feel for their productions, training methods, and campus life. Seeking opinions from current or former students, as you mentioned, is also a great idea. Ultimately, you want to be sure you choose a school where you'll thrive personally, as well as theatrically. Best of luck in finding the perfect theatre program for you!