Why Choose the Theatre Arts Major at Milligan University?
Milligan’s Theatre Arts major emphasizes personal growth, professional preparation, and artistic expression. Students benefit from individualized mentorship, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive community that values skill development and character formation. The program integrates a thoughtful exploration of faith, encouraging students to create meaningful work that reflects their values and aspirations.
SCHOOL OF ARTS & HUMANITIES
BACHELOR OF ARTS, MINOR IN THEATRE ARTS
After coming to Milligan, I decided to pursue a career in all aspects of theatre – including acting, directing, designing, and constructing. I have gained confidence that I can truly become a professional and excel in my career.”
Jocelyn Kain | Class of 2027
Career Paths for Theatre Arts Majors
A Theatre Arts degree from Milligan provides a strong foundation for many career opportunities. Graduates are well-prepared to excel in performance, directing, stage management, education, and other fields. This versatile degree equips students with the skills and confidence needed to thrive both on stage and in other professional settings.
Potential Careers
Actor/Performer
Bring stories to life on stage or screen.
Director
Lead creative teams to produce compelling theatrical works.
Set Designer
Build imaginative and functional environments for theatre productions and performances.
Stage Manager
Coordinate logistics to ensure seamless productions.
Playwright
Write narratives that resonate with audiences.
Dramaturg
Provide research and context for theatrical productions.
Theatre Arts Major
Resources
Theatre Internships
Milligan theatre arts has partnered with local theaters to provide the opportunity to complete a professional internship for credit. Internships may take place during the semester or the summer.
Johnson City Arts Center
Internships may offer opportunities in:
• set design and construction
• lighting design
• performing in acting and dancing roles for annual Christmas and spring semester shows
Jonesborough Repertory Theatre
Internships may offer opportunities in:
• audition for professional productions
• dance in professional productions
• serve as assistant stage manager
• observe and receive professional mentoring in all areas of technical theatre
Paramount Bristol
Internships may offer opportunities in:
• technical theatre
• business of theatre and non-profit operations
Students need approval from a theatre arts faculty member to enroll in an internship. Please contact a faculty member for more details and to apply.
Scholarships
Explore Scholarship Options
Available for performers and technicians, the Theatre Arts Scholarship is a competitive, renewable scholarship awarded to a limited number of students annually. Scholarships are awarded to performers who exhibit excellent performance ability and potential as identified through audition and to technicians who demonstrate knowledge in design, production, or stage management through a portfolio review and interview. Both non-majors and theatre majors are eligible.
In-person auditions for the theatre program are preferred. You can be assigned another date if you cannot attend one of the audition dates for the theatre program below. If an in-person audition is not possible, an audition via YouTube or other video format links will be accepted. Portfolio reviews can be scheduled as needed and can be in person or virtual.
Faculty
Faculty
At Milligan, you’ll work with faculty members who have proven themselves to be theatre artists, performers, scholars, and teachers. With wide-ranging stage and screen experience—on Broadway, in regional theatres, and worldwide—they are dedicated to helping students realize their full potential.
Concentrations
- Theatre Performance
- Theatre Design and Production
Gregory Center
McGlothlin-Street Theatre
Elizabeth Leitner Gregory Center for the Liberal Arts was dedicated on February 1, 2008, and houses the McGlothlin-Street Theatre. The state-of-the-art facility includes a 294-seat theatre with a proscenium stage, fly system, orchestra pit, green room, dressing rooms, box office, and concessions area. The theatre is used for the University’s celebrated theatre arts program, humanities program, academic lecture series, and various campus and community events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Milligan’s Theatre Arts Major Different from Other Programs?
The Theatre Arts major at Milligan University combines a robust academic foundation with hands-on learning in a supportive, faith-centered environment. This program provides students with opportunities to refine their artistic talents while considering the broader impact of their work on culture and society. Faculty members guide students in developing their craft and character, ensuring a personalized education that prepares them for success in various professional settings. Milligan also integrates faith into the curriculum, encouraging students to connect their creativity and values. The program’s holistic approach sets it apart, focusing on personal growth and professional readiness.
Can I Double Major or Minor While Studying Theatre Arts?
Yes, Milligan’s flexible Theatre Arts program allows students to combine their interests with other areas of study. Many students pursue a second major or a minor in fields like Education, Communications, or Music, broadening their career options and enhancing their skill sets. This adaptability supports students in tailoring their academic paths to fit their goals, whether they aspire to teach, perform, or work in a multidisciplinary field. With guidance from faculty advisors, students can create a course plan that balances their Theatre Arts studies with additional areas of interest, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.
Are There Opportunities To Perform or Work on Productions During My Time at Milligan?
Milligan offers a variety of opportunities for Theatre Arts students to participate in performances and productions. These include faculty-directed plays, student-led showcases, and workshops that span acting, directing, costume design, and technical roles. Productions are held in professional-grade facilities, providing students real-world experience in a creative and collaborative environment. Students can explore different aspects of theatre, from set design to stage management, while building their confidence and skills. These hands-on experiences are vital for students pursuing careers in the arts, as they allow for the practical application of the knowledge gained in the classroom.
How Does Milligan’s Theatre Arts Program Prepare Students for Success?
Milligan’s Theatre Arts program emphasizes a personalized approach to student success. Faculty members work closely with theatre students, providing individualized mentorship and guidance tailored to their aspirations in the performing arts. Small class sizes allow for meaningful interactions, and performance opportunities give students practical experience that enhances their skills. The program also integrates faith-based learning, encouraging students to connect their artistry and values. By fostering technical abilities and character development, Milligan ensures that graduates are prepared to excel in their chosen careers and contribute positively to their communities and the broader arts landscape.
Do I Need Prior Theatre Experience To Join the Program?
No prior experience is required to enroll in the BA in Theatre Arts at Milligan. The program welcomes theatre students with varying levels of expertise, from beginners to seasoned performers. Faculty members are dedicated to helping students develop their skills and grow as artists. Students gain the confidence and knowledge needed to succeed through coursework, workshops, and performance opportunities. Whether stepping onto the stage for the first time or building on prior experience, Milligan provides the resources and support necessary to thrive in your artistic journey.
How Does Faith Play a Role in the Theatre Arts Program?
Faith is a vital part of Milligan’s Theatre Arts program, shaping how students approach storytelling and creativity. The curriculum encourages students to consider how their beliefs influence their work and how theatre can serve as a medium for meaningful engagement with the world. Through performances and class discussions, students explore ways to connect their art with their values, creating projects that inspire and challenge audiences. This integration of faith and artistry helps students develop as performers and creators and as individuals committed to making a positive impact through their work.