Theatre & Interpretation: Acting & Directing
Major
Acting and directing at CMU
Ready to step into the spotlight or call the shots behind the curtain? Our acting and directing major gives you real experience, right away. Our talented theatre program puts on about 25 productions each year, including mainstage productions, summer theatre, dance performances, and studio theatre. Even as a freshman, you’ll have many chances to practice your skills on stage and behind the scenes in a friendly environment.
Here, you won’t just study theatre; you’ll live it, evolving with every scene, every cue and every rehearsal.
AT A GLANCE
Why our acting and directing major?
In our studio theatre series, you can experiment with different roles; whether it’s directing, acting, writing plays, designing costumes, or choreographing. You'll perform in professional spaces like a 500-seat proscenium theatre, a flexible black-box theatre, a 200-seat round theatre, and a recently renovated 75-seat theatre.
With small class sizes, you’ll learn from expert faculty dedicated to your success. You’ll also get to work with visiting artists, including directors, Fulbright scholars, playwrights, and performers. Through workshops and lectures, you’ll explore new ideas and perspectives.
Outside the classroom, our touring summer theatre program lets you experience traveling repertory theatre while earning pay and college credits. Many students also compete in national conventions or take internships with theatre companies across the country.
What to expect as an acting and directing major at CMU?
As an acting and directing student at CMU, you can:
- Learn from a wide range of opportunities: Audition for up to 25 productions each year, gaining valuable experience in acting and directing.
- Tailor your educational journey: Customize your studies with courses in playwriting, performance, voice, movement, and audition techniques.
- Access specialized funding: Apply for scholarships specifically designed for theatre students to support your educational endeavors.
- Gain real-world experience: Take on internships or apprenticeships with renowned organizations such as the Purple Rose Theatre, Tipping Point Theatre, or Merry-Go-Round Playhouse.
- Be a part of the theatre community: Connect with fellow theatre enthusiasts through our chapter of Alpha Psi Omega, the national honorary theatre fraternity, or hone your improv skills in our student-run Trap Door Improv.
Careers for an acting and directing major
Our acting and directing students go on to successful careers in every aspect of the business. Some of them are household names—like Jeff Daniels, Larry Joe Campbell, and Terry O’Quinn. Many others are working as actors, singers and directors for professional theatres around the nation.
| Career | Projected Salary |
|---|---|
| Producer/Director | $82,510 |
| Set and Exhibit Designer | $59,490 |
| Art Director | $106,500 |
| Writer/Author | $73,690 |
| Talent Director | $85,320 |
Theatre experts break down a theatre production
Join CMU students as they dive into the thrilling world of Cabaret, where Berlin's vibrant nightlife meets the challenges of 1930s Germany. In this video, they share their hands-on experiences in a professional production. From stage managing to character work, every role enhances their growth.
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