From day one, students in The Department of Theatrical Arts for Stage and Screen at Utah Valley University are engaged in an academically rigorous, high-impact learning environment. Students are taught and mentored by accomplished faculty and work with visiting industry artists to develop in-demand skills necessary for professional success. The heart of the students’ curricular experience is the practical application of their skills, resulting in award-winning productions. These engaged learning opportunities embody UVU’s commitment to radical inclusion by focusing on student success for our diverse populations across multiple and distinct disciplines. These artistically vital collaborations reflect and elevate our broader regional community.
UVU Theatre offers a variety of degrees suited to different student interests and needs. As a freshman or transfer student, all students are accepted to UVU as an open enrollment institution and can declare themselves a CP (Certificate of Proficiency), AA, AS or BA Major, or Theatre Minor. Additionally, UVU offers BFA degrees in Musical Theatre, Acting, and Design. Students must audition or submit a portfolio for review for acceptance into these programs.
The Noorda Center for the Performing Arts presents, produces, and co-produces professional level productions that almost always include opportunities for students to work alongside industry professionals. Recent UVU theatre classes have even been instructed by Broadway performers. Additionally, students have frequent opportunities to connect with Broadway directors, playwrights, and performers.
Engaged learning is all about connecting students with professional organizations and opportunities in order to build bridges to better careers after graduation. Here at UVU, engaged learning is in our DNA. As the production partner of Sundance Summer Theatre, UVU theatre students have the chance to work alongside professionals each year as actors, assistant designers, and technicians. Learn more about engaged learning in The Department of Theatrical Arts and The School of the Arts.
“The UVU Department of Theatre fosters an environment that encourages students to discover their unique voice in the world of theatre. Our commitment to individual growth makes UVU the perfect stage to launch your artistic journey.”
—La Beene, Chair of The Department of Theatre
Every Friday evening, UVU's own Hot Tea Improv Team performs a free improv show, open to anyone who wants to attend. Whether you've been to a ton of other improv shows or this is your first, we invite you to come laugh along with us!
Fall 2024 semester improv performance schedule:
The Theatre for Youth and Education Center gives amazing opportunities to both the youth of the community and UVU students as they teach the youth in summer camps. The TYE Center also produces a touring show each semester that performs for almost 15,000 students. Sensory friendly performances of these touring shows are presented in partnership with The Melisa Nellesen Center for Autism.
Utah Valley University
Department of Theatrical Arts
800 W. University Parkway MS 234
Orem, Utah 84058