Master of Fine Arts in Theatre: Acting

The Master of Fine Arts: Acting program is undergoing revision and no class will be recruited for the 2008-2009 Academic Year. The School of Theatre plans to implement a revised MFA curriculum in the fall of 2009. Please contact the School of Theatre for more information.

Curriculum

A well-rounded curriculum refines actor skills and encourages performance flexibility in anticipation of the challenges of repertory theatre. Students take advanced studio courses in acting, voice, and movement during the fall and spring semesters. These intensive classes focus on the specific needs of the individual graduate student.

More detailed information on program requirements and course descriptions can be found in the Graduate Catalog (pdf).

Performance Opportunities

In addition to course work, students are trained and evaluated in the crucible of performance. M.F.A. acting students, along with the undergraduate acting majors, are required to audition each semester for School of Theatre productions. Although the School’s production program offers abundant performance opportunities, casting is competitive and roles are won through the audition process rather than pre-casting. We believe that the ability to compete successfully is a vital part of professional training.

Professional Practice

During the summer months, M.F.A. students are given the opportunity to perform with the Illinois Shakespeare Festival in its 450 seat state-of-the-art outdoor facility at Ewing Manor. Each summer, the Illinois Shakespeare Festival presents three plays in rotating repertory, along with nightly Greenshows. Students compete for roles with Equity and non-Equity actors from around the country. Students may also seek internships or employment with other approved professional theatres during the summer months.

Teaching Opportunities

The Master of Fine Arts is a terminal degree and is a requirement for most university teaching positions. With teaching as a potential career option, M.F.A. students at Illinois State University receive training and gain experience in teaching at the college/university level. Graduate acting students also perform in the Illinois Shakespeare Festival’s educational outreach touring program.

Financial Aid

M.F.A. acting students are awarded Graduate Assistantships with a full tuition waiver and a monthly stipend to aid them in defraying a portion of their educational expenses. Graduate assistantships usually require a minimum twenty-hour weekly commitment of work for the School, which includes teaching assignments and work with the educational outreach program. Information about additional financial aid is available through the University Financial Aid office.

Recruitments

Illinois State University admits a new M.F.A. acting class every other year. The current class of six students was recruited for admission in the fall of 2004. The School of Theatre looks for the most gifted and promising actors available, especially working professionals dedicated to the advancement of their own training. The School seeks talented and disciplined actor/scholars who will prove successful in the fields of acting and/or teaching.

Admission

Candidates must apply through the Office of Admissions. Prospective students must audition for members of the acting faculty at established U/RTA auditions or on the Illinois State University campus.

Further information regarding admission requirements and the application process can be found in the Graduate Catalog (pdf). Specific questions may be addressed to Paul Dennhardt, Head of the Graduate Acting Program.

Success for Recent Graduates

Graduates of the acting program at Illinois State University work successfully as actors throughout the country. Recent graduates work or have worked at such theatres as: the Unicorn Theatre, the Bailiwick, the Court Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, Primary Stages, and Famous Door Theatre. Graduates teach at institutions of higher learning, such as Ball State University, Eureka College, and Columbus State University. For more information about School of Theatre alumni, visit our alumni page.