Theater
Prepare for a career on the stage or in film or just explore the world of theater.
UMass takes a broad-based liberal arts approach to theater. We produce high-caliber, professional, artistic creations on stage, telling human stories that connect audiences and performers. We model and practice professional theater-making at every level of our teaching and production process.
Our faculty marry the theoretical with the practical, guiding students to discover theatrical skills as well as life skills that serve them in the world of theater and beyond. Their expertise often leads to artistic projects and opportunities for our students, where they can practice their budding professional skills and make artistic creations in official and less official spaces.
The spirit of mentorship permeates our department, and we tailor our teaching and advising to the specific needs and strengths of our students. We build teams in everything we do, teaching students the art of collaboration, working in groups, and tackling projects from start to finish.
Whether you are pursuing a career on the stage, in film, or just want to explore the world of theater, our programs build the communication, collaboration, and creative thinking skills necessary for a full and successful life.
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Continuing and professional education
Alumni spotlight
In the spotlight
“[At UMass], I didn’t have to pick a track. When I was applying to schools, a lot of the theater programs wanted you to declare right away. But you don’t know what you want until you experience a lot of things.”
Featured faculty
Amy Altadonna
Lecturer
Amy Altadonna is the undergraduate program director and lecturer in sound design and technology in the Department of Theater.
Gilbert McCauley
Professor
Gil McCauley is a professor and graduate program director in the Department of Theater.
Christopher Baker
Professor
Christopher Baker is a dramaturg, playwright, director, and teacher with over 30 years’ experience in regional, off-Broadway, and academic theatre.
Priscilla Page
Assistant Professor
Priscilla Page is a writer, performer, dramaturg, and faculty member. Her research includes Latina/o/x theater and contemporary Native American performance.
In the news
Theater and Women, Gender, Sexuality Studies Major Claudia Maurino '24 Named Spring 2024 Rising Researcher
Theater and Women, Gender, Sexuality Studies major Claudia Maurino '24 has been named a spring 2024 Rising Researcher.
Behind the Curtain with Elisa Gonzales: Paving the Way for Latinx Representation in Theater
Elisa Gonzales is a Mexican-American theater artist, playwright, actor, educator, and voice, speech, and dialect coach originating from Southern California.
Second Annual UMass Amherst Spring Arts Festival to Include Inaugural ‘HFA Days’ and Outdoor Performances from the Fine Arts Center
The second annual UMass Amherst Spring Arts Festival—created in partnership between College of Humanities & Fine Arts and the Fine Arts Center—begins April 2.