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Vassar College

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Program

BA Drama

Program snapshot

Admissions
No PrescreenNo AuditionNo InterviewUniversity App Required
Program profile
Study Abroad

TRAINING
Multidisciplinary drama curriculum spanning theater-making, dramatic literature, theater history, performance studies, design, dramaturgy, acting, directing, playwriting, stage management, and technical theater
Theory and practice are treated as inseparable, with the Experimental Theater functioning as a laboratory for curricular production work
Drama 102 and 103 introduce theater-making, collaboration, stagecraft, design, and technical elements before upper-level specialization
Majors complete a full-year sequence on sources of world drama and at least two 300-level courses in dramatic literature, theater history, or performance studies
PERFORMANCE & PRODUCTIONS
Department produces 6-8 productions annually, with opportunities in acting, directing, stage management, design, dramaturgy, technical theater, costume construction, set and prop building, lighting, and rigging
Production assignments earn credit through courses including DRA 200, DRA 390, and DRA 391
Steerman New Play Series and guest artist programming add new-work and professional-practice exposure
Vassar College Ticket Fund helps students attend Broadway and regional theatrical performances
NOTABLE ALUMNI
Meryl Streep '71, three-time Academy Award winner and Vassar Drama major
Ethan Slater '14, Tony-nominated Broadway performer and Wicked film actor
Lilli Cooper '12, Tony-nominated Broadway performer and actor
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Senior Project in Drama lets students complete significant projects in dramatic literature, theater history, performance studies, acting, directing, design, or playwriting, paired with substantial research writing
Juniors may apply to complete a senior thesis in production after successful completion of prerequisite track work
Course and production instructors continually evaluate students' development in theatrical skills across the curriculum
FACILITIES
Vogelstein Center for Drama and Film houses the department's classroom and production spaces
Facilities include Martel Theater, Powerhouse Theater, Streep Studio, costume and scene shops, and a historical costume collection
STUDY ABROAD
Students who study abroad in drama may generally count 2 credits as elective credits with department pre-approval
DEGREE FLEXIBILITY
The Drama Department does not require a graduation track, giving majors significant agency in shaping their course of study
Electives may include upper-level work in Drama, Film, or Dance, supporting broad liberal arts exploration across performance disciplines

Updated 4d ago