What You’ll Learn

During your time as a theater major at Vermont State, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of modern theatrical production through carefully structured coursework and abundant practical experience beginning with your first semester. 

In addition to core courses that introduce you to topics like the history of theater, set design, and stage management, you’ll choose four electives from a wide range of possibilities to add to your knowledge in the areas that interest you.  

For the Acting and Directing Concentration, you’ll add four more courses focused on these practices to expand your technique, experience, and theoretical understanding.  

Outside the Classroom, In the Community

One of the unique features of studying theater is that you begin to practice your craft in front of a public audience from very early on in your studies. Theater productions on the Castleton campus regularly attract members of the surrounding community, giving you the opportunity to entertain, inspire, and engage far beyond the classroom.  

During the summer, many students in the program take advantage of the opportunity to secure internships with theaters and production companies around Vermont and across the country, gaining unique experiences and building a professional network for career opportunities.  

Special Facilities

Get hands-on experience with every dimension of theater during your time at Vermont State. Our comprehensive facilities include: 

• Casella Theater: This 484-seat, state-of-the-art facility hosts full-scale theatrical productions. 
• Black Box Theater: Explore diverse performance techniques in this intimate, flexible space. 
• Scenic Studio: Learn the tools and practices of set construction in this 1,280-square-foot build space. 
• Performance Studio: Rehearse for stage productions and experience active learning in this large room in the lower level of the Fine Arts Center. 
• Design Studio: Housing ten drafting stations, here is where you’ll hone your skills in scene, costume, and lighting design and construct models to explore design concepts. 
• Costume Shop: Work with faculty to build, dye, alter, and prepare costumes for department productions. The Theater Arts Department has one of the largest collections of costume stock in the state.