Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre

The School of Theatre & Dance and the School of Music offer a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) program in musical theatre. The goal of the musical theatre program is to train students for successful careers in musical and stage performance in the competitive entertainment industry. Over their course of study, musical theatre majors will take classes in acting, dance techniques, choreography, theatre history, stage production, music theory, voice lessons, musical theatre literature, and special topics. Students will have the opportunity to perform in one to two major musical or opera productions and several minimally produced performance and showcase productions each academic year. In addition, majors will have the opportunity of participating in the College's dance, drama, and musical productions. A typical student may perform in as many as ten productions during their time at WVU. Major Learning Goals Essential Competencies, Experiences, and Opportunities: Achievement of the highest possible level of performance as an actor-singer. Studies in acting shall continue throughout the entire degree program. Thorough development of skills in acting and skills in dance as appropriate to musical theatre Thorough development in basic musical skills including voice performance, musicianship, and music theory. Studies in voice should continue throughout the degree program. Opportunities to develop a high level of skill in sight-singing Opportunities for performance in workshops and full productions of musical theatre in a variety of formal and informal settings. Performance of a significant role in at least one full production during advanced study is regarded as an essential experience. Opportunities for developing repertory and techniques for auditions Career Profile Career opportunities for musical theatre majors include working as professional performers in the television, film and entertainment industries. Graduates with a B.F.A. in Musical Theatre may continue their education in graduate theatre programs.