About the Department

The Academic Program consists of a rigorous curriculum. The Theatre major includes foundational courses in Script Analysis, Principles of Acting, and Visual Concepts for the Stage with further studies into history, design & production, and management. A four show practicum system replaces the capstone Senior Theatre Project and requires students to participate in four productions (one being during their senior year) in the areas of Acting/Performance, Stage Management, Directing, Design & Technology, and Dramaturgy. The Film program offers students experiences in creating feature films and documentaries and gaining skills in camera work, editing, sound, and production. The minors in Theatre and Film production each require 5 credits.

The co-curricular Labor Program is designed for students to be able to work directly on shows in production and design roles. The Department offers positions in the scene, costume, and properties shops as well as in lighting, sound, management, social media, and hair & makeup. The Theatre also hires students as Teaching Assistants, building monitors, and ushers. Students work 10-15 hours per week in their labor positions and these allow students to be competitive in professional theatre settings, as well as for graduate schools, internships, and apprentice programs.

Alongside the Academic and Labor Programs, students are encouraged to take advantage of opportunities both at and outside of Berea College.

At Berea, all students, regardless of major, gender, race, ethnicity, and experience level are encouraged to audition for and participate in the co-curricular productions each season. Students from over 20 majors and minors participated in Berea's 2025-26 season!

Many students take advantage of Berea's Internship program in order to participate in internships and programs across the country.

Additionally, students can apply for funding in order to attend national and international conferences throughout the year in areas of performance, design & technology, and management. From these, they will often create internships during the summer months that will enhance their academic and labor experiences.

Berea Theatre graduates are distinguished by the practical experience gained though student work positions within the Theatre Laboratory. Graduates find employment in a variety of career fields and occupations including: