We are passionate about theatre.

We believe that theatre is an intersection between the imagination and the real world. At the University of South Carolina, theatre provides a laboratory for exploring our past, and creating our future

Theatre is exploring ideas.

To understand the power of theatre today, one must explore its history in ancient and modern times, its texts and its cultural, social and intellectual contexts. At the University of South Carolina students pursue an interdisciplinary approach that includes historical and critical studies as well as studies of texts, cultural studies and production.

Theatre is more than a play and a stage.

Theatre exists in a constantly evolving historical, political, and cultural context. Great plays can change the world. At the confluence of ideas and action is performance and it is here that historians, critics, and dramaturgs study and create new knowledge. At Theatre South Carolina, weÍre demonstrating every day that study of the play and its context helps audiences to understand the play, theatre artists to create the production, and scholars to gain a fuller understanding of the power of art in the world.

Theatre History
Dramaturgy
Critical Theory

Theatre is a collaboration.

In an active theatre program, theatre artists and scholars are in a constant process of interaction, collaboration, and creation. At the University of South Carolina our students collaborate with actors, directors and designers in the creation of new productions. Each year renowned guest artists and scholars provide unique opportunities for intellectual and artistic growth.

A Master of Arts in Theatre candidate may work as a production dramaturg on the creative team for a major production and create research materials to be used by artists and audiences.

So take on a new role.

Theatre scholars, critics and dramaturgs teach audiences and artists as well as students. Their scholarship, analysis, criticism and advocacy create a context for innovation as well as transmitting a great tradition. They work in schools, colleges and universities, in theatre companies, journals and arts organizations, to nurture and sustain one of the most ancient and vibrant art forms. At the University of South Carolina we provide research and teaching assistantships as well as internships for selected students. We give MA candidates experience they need for teaching, work in the theatre or further graduate study.