Acting - Major (BFA)

The B.F.A. in Acting is a pre-professional degree in acting and develops the skills necessary for the working artist in theater. Training at Nazareth takes place in small studio classes with individual attention and faculty mentoring to make students ready for the rigorous world of professional performance. With particular emphasis on Shakespearean dramatic and performance studies, the B.F.A. in Acting places value on the holistic view that a liberal arts-based education is required for a young artist.

Students in the major study acting each semester and take courses in voice, movement, textual analysis and design throughout their training. In addition, 2 dance technique courses are required and singing voice lessons are strongly recommended. Each semester Acting majors must audition for the department season and accept the role assigned, and if not cast, accept a production assignment. Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 within their major and are evaluated annually by a faculty committee to ensure that they are making meaningful progress. In the summer of their junior year, students are required to participate in a theater internship to help facilitate the transition into the professsion. Students are eliible to participate in the senior showcase in New York City through an audition process.

Student Learning Outcomes

• To develop expertise in specific acting and performance skills that are related to a wide range of theatre production with emphasis on credibility, vocal production, movement techniques, improvisation, characterization and dramatic styles.
• To develop critical, analytical, and independent thinking that serve as the foundation of creative work.
• To possess an adequate knowledge of theatre history and literature in order to analyze and interpret works of art (understanding the current and past artistic traditions that have shaped our psychological and cultural identities).
• To possess a knowledge and appreciation for technical production and basic craftsmanship.
• To master the techniques and prepare the materials needed to pursue a viable career in the entertainment industry.