BFA in Acting

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Why study Acting at UArts?
The University of the Arts BFA in Acting degree program focuses on training in acting, movement and speech. Faculty use a set of carefully selected techniques that reinforce one another. As an acting major at UArts, you’ll develop respect for the art of theater and the theater in yourself.

What’s the Acting degree program like?
The Acting degree curriculum develops actors who possess well-rounded performance technique, strong text/script analytical skills, and vocal and physical freedom and efficiency. Through academic coursework in Theater and Liberal Arts, you will sharpen your analysis and critical thinking, expand your sense of historical context, and enhance communication skills. In addition, UArts acting students learn:
  • Fundamental skills in stage combat
  • Basic skills in performing for the camera
  • Command of both style and language required to interpret classical texts

What performance opportunities are availableto Acting majors?
The Ira Brind School of Theater Arts stages 14-16 shows per year, including a Subscription Series of six shows and a Studio Series of 8–10 shows. Recent productions include:

  • Bat Boy: The Musical
  • No Exit
  • Into the Woods
  • Quake
  • A new musical based on the music of The Kinks: A Rock and Roll Fantasy

Collaboration opportunities are available with The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts in the U.K.

What professional opportunities are available to Acting majors?
The purpose of the actor training programs at UArts is to prepare you to:

  • Work in the professional theater
  • Pursue advanced or graduate study in theater arts
  • Train or direct theater professionals and students

How will I be prepared for a professional acting career?
UArts School of Theater Arts offers these courses to make you more marketable:

  • Audition Technique
  • Business of the Theater
  • Acting on Camera

In senior audition clinics, you can audition before a panel of regional and national casting professionals who provide you with feedback, and sometimes, callbacks.

Is a minor available?
Yes. You may add a Minor in Musical Theater to your repertoire with additional study in dance and music.

Are faculty working professionals?
Yes. Acting students work with faculty who are themselves working professional actors, directors and designers.

How can I learn more?
For more information about our programs or our productions, please do not hesitate to call us at 215-717-6450. Stay in touch and stay abreast of the latest news about the Ira Brind School of Theater Arts: read the Brind School Buzz blog, follow @brindschool on Twitter, or become a fan on Facebook.

Acting majors Ben Stanely and Brian Cowden trained in stage combat for four years, gaining a skill that gives them an advantage when auditioning for plays like "Hamlet" or "West Side Story."

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320 South Broad Street • Philadelphia, PA 19102