As a part of the University of Central Missouri's Theatre and Dance program, you'll build knowledge of your craft, gain critical thinking skills, artistic instinct, and the confidence needed to realize your professional goals. Our five undergraduate degree programs are all accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre.
This season we are producing two mainstage musicals, a contemporary play, a modern adaptation of a Greek play, and an original play serving as our spring dance concert!
We are excited to announce our 2022-2023 Theatre & Dance Season: HERstory season! - Download schedule
September 15-17th @ 7:30pm - Studio One Acts - Nickerson Black Box Theater
October 6 - 9th, 2022 - Stop Kiss - Nickerson Black Box Theater
November 11-12th, 13th, 17-19th, 18-20th, 2022 - The Prom - Highlander Theater
February 9-11th @ 7:00pm - Studio One Acts - Nickerson Black Box Theater
February 23-26th, 2023 - Eurydice - Highlander Theater
April 6-9th, 2023 @ 7:30pm - Little Women - Highlander Theater
April 20-23rd, 2023 - Remember the Dance - Nickerson Black Box Theater
Plus numerous Black Box productions written, created & produced by UCM Theatre & Dance students.
Watch this PBS behind the scenes video showcasing Assistant Professor of Theatre, Ken George and how he and his students brought his design for Hairspray to fruition during our Fall 2019 season opener.
UCM Theatre and Dance excels in educating future professionals for careers in theatre.
You will study with nationally recognized faculty and collaborate with accomplished
guest artists, known for staging some of the region's finest academic theatre productions.
We will mentor and guide you as you reach your potential. You will benefit from our strong connections to regional and national theatres and dance communities. The Meridith Harmon Sauer Endowed Guest Artist Series in Theatre will introduce you to local, regional, national and international artists.
UCM Theatre and Dance, through its academic and production programs, joins the global community in its investigation of the human condition. Along this journey, not only will we train you with rigor and excellence to compete at the highest level in regards to your artistic endeavors, but this investigation will equip you with the transferable skills of critical thinking, empathetic reasoning, collaboration, communication, discipline, time management and charismatic self confidence; skills that will make you highly employable in any career. Whether it's in our 5-6 Main Stage productions, 12-15 Studio Theatre One Acts, 30-40 Black Box productions, or membership and involvement in our six different student organizations, there are dozens upon dozens of opportunities for involvement each and every semester. Regardless if you intend to pursue one of the majors or minors listed below or plan to explore theatre and dance more casually, we welcome you to join us in our journey!
Mission: UCM Theatre and Dance develops the intellectual growth, creativity, and artistic leadership of its students by combining rigorous theatrical training with a liberal arts education and serves as a vital force in the cultural and intellectual life of the University of Central Missouri, the community, and region.
Vision: To be an indispensable member of the theatrical, academic and public community and a place of empathy, love, growth, inspiration and achievement for all.
Values:
Inclusivity: Welcoming all differences and ensuring different perspectives are respectfully heard with every individual feeling a sense of belonging
Equity: Dedication to removing biases and creating accessible instruction, production program, curriculum and scholarships for all students particularly those who have been marginalized
Diversity: Faculty, guest artists, selected works, recruiting and coursework will represent the richness of the multicultural world in which we live
Liberal Arts Education: Educating students to be well-rounded and dynamic artists through a student-centered learning environment
Professional Training: Prepare students for professional work through rigorous, hands-on real world situations and opportunities
Scholarship: Valuing in-depth scholarly research and program training across all disciplines both inside and outside of the classroom
Interpersonal Communication: Training collaborative individuals who work positively and respectfully with others
Inspiration: Students are encouraged and empowered to be innovators in both course work and theatrical production in pursuit of their goals and dreams to see beyond their perceived limitations
Creativity: Students shall never be stifled as they explore and find their own artistic voices as theatre artists and educators. The opportunity to fail is just as important as the opportunity to succeed.
All UCM Theatre and Dance degree programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre.
Majors:
Minors:
UCM is the longest continuously CAEP accredited public institution in Missouri
UCM’s Theatre and Dance Department is nationally accredited by the National Association for Schools of Theatre