Theatre is a collaborative art form. To perform is to step into the shoes of a character, to let go of inhibitions, and to dwell in a cooperative space.

Why study theatre arts at Sewanee?

Majoring in theatre arts at Sewanee will give you a strong foundation in all areas of study: acting, directing, design, history, and theory. You’ll expand your knowledge and experience by actively participating in full-production programs. You’ll also be encouraged to supplement your learning with complementary courses in other departments like English and psychology.

Competence on stage and behind the scenes and collaboration with your cast and crew exhibit more than just an understanding of theatre—they demonstrate the mastery of skills needed to live well in community with others. Here at Sewanee, theatre arts can help you be successful in life both on and off the stage.

FIRST DESTINATIONS: Theatre Arts MAJORS

Sewanee graduates secure positions in a variety of fields. Some you would expect, others, are a bit of a surprise. Sewanee prepares you for your profession and your passion. Below is a sampling of recent graduates' first job.

  • Actor, Tennessee Shakespeare Company, Germantown, TN.
  • Brand Planning Intern, The Richards Group, Dallas, TX.
  • Choreographer and Head of Movement/Fight, Merrie Woode, Sapphire, NC,

A Sampling of Courses

The Physical Actor: From Neutrality to Clown
Theatre

An introduction to the actor training methods of Jacques Lecoque with an emphasis on comedy. Exercises in movement, mime, character, improvisation, clowning, and for the neutral, larval, and Commedia mask. Students develop performance projects: original clown acts and performance pieces, traditional clown entrances, and improvisations.

THTR 234
Acting with an Accent
Theatre

An advanced scene study course in which students master the International Phonetic Alphabet and apply it to scenes written in a variety of dialects. Particular attention is given to regional American dialects and to the dramatic literature of English, Irish, and South African playwrights.

THTR 236
Design Studio: Perspective and Rendering for the Theatre
Theatre

Conceive, craft, and present fully rendered perspective scenic sketches to the production team. Perspective sketches are explored as part of the exploration and discovery process, initial idea sharing, and final presentation process. Basic and advanced perspective and rendering techniques are learned and executed on a series of projects.

THTR 372
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Theatre Arts

Requirements & Related Programs

Requirements for the Major & Minor in Theatre Arts

Requirements for the Minor in Dance | Website

Contact

Jennifer K. Matthews
Professor of Theatre Arts

jmatthew@sewanee.edu

Tennessee Williams Center 21, Ext. 1126

Tennessee Williams' Center
Legacy of the south's favorite playwright

The Tennessee Williams Center provides unique, state-of-the-art facilities for the students and faculty. Created with funds from the estate of Tennessee Williams himself, the center houses a fully equipped 175-seat theatre, a 60-seat studio theatre, a drafting and design studio, a dance studio, costume and scenery studios, and dressing rooms.

On with the show!
Perpetual Motion
True expression of self and culture

Perpetual Motion (or PMo) is a student run dance organization whose goal is to include all levels of experience—from 10 minutes to 10 years. There are even auditions for choreographers. Come get involved in this community-wide endeavor to make dance attainable and fun. From ballet and hip-hop to swing and salsa, there’s a genre for you.

Get moving
Center for Speaking & Listening
Next stop: eloquence and poise

The Center for Speaking and Listening will be your new favorite resource on campus. Check out this quiet space, use state-of-the-art equipment, and meet tutors ready to watch your speech and give constructive feedback. Design, develop, and practice delivering effective, ethical speeches with eloquence and confidence.

take a look