FAQs about the B.A. in Theatre and Drama
- How do I audition to become a Theatre and Drama major?
There is no audition requirement for the Theatre and Drama major.
- May entering freshmen audition for the mainstage season?
Yes, all students may audition for the mainstage season. Auditions are usually held in the first week of classes in fall and winter semesters.
- Do you offer scholarships for incoming freshmen?
The Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance offers scholarships for established students. Financial aid information is available on the Admissions website.
- Do you offer summer work?
We teach some courses in the Second Summer Session. For production involvement, the Brown County Playhouse produces one musical and three plays in a summer and fall season. In addition, Premiere Musicals workshops a new musical each year, culminating in three public performances dedicated to developing musical theatre at Indiana University. We also encourage our students to pursue summer work at other theatres.
- Have your graduates been successful?
Our graduates find employment in a wide range of possibilities related to theatre. Though there are no guarantees—in professional theatre especially—graduates of the Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance have appeared on television, film, Broadway, national and international tours, regional theatres from coast to coast and around the world.
- Will I have academic advising within the B.A. program?
Kim Hinton is the undergraduate advisor in the department. She can help you with course selection, scheduling, and keeping track of your academic progress.
- Will there be any production performance guarantees for participants in this program?
With eight major productions, plus the wider range of opportunities within our workshop level of activity, students have many opportunities for performance, growth,and development. At the same time, there are no absolute guarantees for casting. Individual initiative is a key to participation success.
- Will I be allowed to do production work outside the department?
Yes. There are numerous opportunities for theatre work in Bloomington and the surrounding areas, and we encourage our B.A. students to explore the many possibilities for involvement.
- How soon may I take Theatre and Drama courses?
You may begin taking Theatre and Drama courses your first semester at Indiana University.
- If I am thinking of becoming a Theatre and Drama major but am not sure, who will be my advisor?
If you are a freshman who wishes to have your primary connection in your first year to be with the Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance, you may have advising with the department’s undergraduate advisor. Contact Kim Hinton for more information.
- Is it possible to have a second major along with the major in Theatre and Drama?
Yes. Several of our students have second majors. Those students who do not have a second major will likely consider a minor in another area.