FAQ
Do I have to audition to be a theatre major?
No. You can declare your major as soon as you have 28 credits, and can be involved as much as you want even before you declare.
Can I audition for shows even if I’m not a major?
Definitely. We encourage everyone to audition, regardless of major. In fact, many active members of the department are not majors.
Do you have to be a major to do a show in Studio 115?
No. Anyone can propose or audition for a show in the Studio.
How many theatre majors are there?
There are approximately 30 theatre majors, and many more non-majors who actively participate in the department.
Can I specialize in a particular area of theatre?
We offer a general Theatre degree, in which all majors take a variety of classes, including performance, design, history, literature, technology, and theatre management. Our program allows you to concentrate in the area of theatre in which you have the greatest interest while giving you a solid foundation for whatever you plan to do after college.
Are there study abroad programs for theatre?
The University of Mary Washington offers a variety of study abroad programs covering all disciplines. For more information, you should look at the study abroad website.
Am I required to participate in all the shows?
You are encouraged to participate as much as possible, but by no means are you required to work on all the shows. Your involvement should be based around your own schedule and interests.
How many shows are in a season?
We generally do four mainstage shows per year, as well as many more in Studio 115, our student-run black box theatre.
What genres of shows do you do?
There is a committee of faculty and students that selects the shows for each season. We try to make sure that in the course of their college career students are exposed to all genres of theatre, including Shakespeare, contemporary, classical, and musicals.
How are auditions run?
Each director has his or her own style and mode of conducting auditions. You should expect to do cold readings from the script and possibly some improvisation. If the show is a musical, you should usually come prepared with 16 bars of an upbeat song.
What steps should I take to get involved in the department?
Registering for Theatre Practicum (THEA 390) can be a good way to get involved right away. The course offers one credit for your work either on a mainstage show (onstage or backstage) or in the Box Office or Management Office. Working on a show, even if you are not registered in Theatre Practicum, is a great way to meet people and get involved.
Can I minor in theatre?
The University of Mary Washington does not offer a minor program, but it is possible to be involved in the theatre department while majoring in another discipline. UMW does allow students to have a concentration in an area of interest other than their declared major. Double-majoring is another feasible option.
Can freshmen perform onstage?
Anyone can audition and be cast in a show, regardless of class or major.
How much are freshmen involved with the productions?
It all depends on the student. Anyone who wants to be involved is given the opportunity. Some people spend their freshman year concentrating on the general education and across the curriculum requirements, while others choose to jump right into theatre.
Are there scholarships available?
Merit-based scholarships are available to upperclassmen involved in the department. Work-study opportunities are also available. Students can apply for jobs in the Theatre Department, including positions in the Management Office, Costume Shop, and Scene Shop.