Theatre - Directing Concentration, (MFA)

University of Memphis

The Department of Theatre & Dance at the University of Memphis fosters the development of our students on an individual basis. We offer a BFA in Theatre with concentrations in performance, musical theatre, dance, dance science and design and technical production as well as an MFA in Theatre with concentrations in directing and design and technical production. We tailor our program to your needs. We are large enough to offer dynamic performance, design, and crew opportunities both in the classroom and in our four performances spaces.We also create an intimate community for intense one-on-one learning opportunities. Our diverse faculty nurtures the individual progress of each student, be they a budding costume designer, a musical theatre performer, or stage manager. We are both a generalized program (where students can explore all areas of theatre) and a specialized one (where students can hone an area of focus).The goal of the department, when training a candidate for the MFA degree, is to provide the tools, opportunities and skills for the talented student to become a master craftsman. Two main projects included are the Internship and Practicum. Other projects will be assigned or approved by the graduate advising committee. Each year, MFA candidates are required to present their portfolio to a faculty panel to maintain their status in the degree program. The final project for all candidates is the completion of a comprehensive exam. The directing candidate's first year project will have as its central focus directorial skills involving staging techniques and collaboration with actors. The second year project will additionally offer the opportunity for collaboration with designers. Consult the guidelines for "Project Phases and Plans of Action" in the Production Practicum section in order to prepare properly with your Advisory Committee for the first year Directing Studio project and the second year Directing Studio project.

College of Communication and Fine Arts