We offer a robust program blending classroom theories and studio techniques with practical experiences in production. Students have multiple practical opportunities each year through our theatrical productions, Music Theatre Ensemble productions, and MVC Flatliners Improv performances. Students can also perform with the Dance Repertory Ensemble and with our vocal and instrumental music ensembles. Most performances take place in either the Eckilson-Mabee Theatre or the Morris Experimental Theatre. Through studying and practicing the art of theatre you will develop the key skills most valued by the modern workforce. Participation in all of our ensembles is open to all MVC students regardless of major.
Theatre
Why a degree in Theatre from Missouri Valley?
We believe that well rounded theatre students make stronger theatre artists. That’s why our program introduces you to the full spectrum of theatre subjects including acting, directing, technical theatre, design, playwriting, and more. Our job is to help you find your voice as a theatre artist. At MVC we will equip you with the skills, experience and confidence to succeed!
Career Possibilities
- Actor
- Director
- Scenic, Costume, Lighting Designer
- Stage Manager or Stagehand
- Voice Over Artist
- Theme Park or Cruise Line Entertainment
- Educator
Graduate Program Possibilities
- Performance
- Design and Production
- Management
- Theory & Criticism
- Playwriting
Courses & Concentrations
Degree in Theatre
The Bachelor of Arts in Theatre is a robust degree which will provide you with a strong foundation in the collaborative art of theatre. When you graduate, you will possess valuable skills in critical thinking, creativity, communication, collaboration, empathy, and flow. These skills are not only crucial as a theatre artists, but are valued in most other fields in the modern world. Course requirements include the theatre core plus six credit hours of theatre electives, for a total of 48 hours.
Minor in Theatre
The theatre minor is designed to provide diverse options for any student who desires to learn more about theatre, and wishes to enhance their education. Simplicity and flexibility are the keystones to the minor. In order to earn a minor in theatre, you must complete 18 hours of any set of theatre courses, nine hours must be upper division.
Admissions & Scholarships
The Fine Arts Division offers scholarships to help offset the cost of tuition. To receive a scholarship, you must provide an audition or portfolio presentation either in person during a campus visit, at a state Thespian Festival, or through an electronic submission. Students should either prepare two contrasting monologues or a monologue and a 16 bar musical solo or present a portfolio of design/writing work. Scholarships are available for majors and non-majors who plan to participate in theatre as an activity.
Faculty
Harold Hynick
Professor of Theatre
Co-Chair, Division of Fine Arts
Co-Chair, Division of Fine Arts
Theatre Beyond the Classroom
Picture courtesy of David Roberts
MVC Flatliners
The MVC Flatliners, is a long form Improvisation troupe designed to help students develop performance skills while providing entertainment for the campus community. The MVC Flatliners, perform on campus twice a month in the Morris Experimental Theatre. They also travel to high schools and colleges to present workshops and performances. In addition, they compete in the College Improv Tournament at professional Improv Companies in either Kansas City or St. Louis. Participation is open to majors and non-majors through competitive auditions.
Picture courtesy of David Roberts
Theatrical Productions
Each year the Theatre department produces several productions of plays and musicals designed to provide practical experience for our students and thought – provoking entertainment for the campus and Marshall communities. Students can be involved in all areas of production. Participation is open to majors and non-majors through competitive auditions.
Musical Theatre Ensemble
Music Theatre Ensemble is a 12 - 14 member musical theatre style vocal group that performs literature from a variety of Broadway shows and popular musical styles combined with choreography and staging. The ensemble was started over twenty-five years ago and has maintained a long history of entertaining audiences of all ages and interests. Each year they do an annual Holiday and Spring show in addition to performing throughout the school year at a variety of events. The ensemble is open to all interested MVC students. Auditions are required and a full year commitment is preferred.
Turning your passion into a career
See how our mission of guiding students to succeed through personal instruction and intellectual inquiry has positively impacted our Vikings!
Student
Makayla Rodgers
Theatre
The thing I like most about Missouri Valley College is the sense of community that it gives, being a smaller school i feel that people are more likely to intermingle and have the opportunity to get involved in areas that they may have not been able to explore at a bigger university. Getting experience outside of activities strictly within your major is a great way to explore your interests and maybe even build your resume
Read Makayla 's Story