University of California - Riverside Department of Theatre

UCR staged its first performance in 1954 and the Department of Theatre, Film, and Digital Production (TFDP) is still committed to the idea that production is central to a theatre education. A full range of classes in literature, history, theory, acting, directing, film making, design, technology, and writing inform and support a vigorous production program that engages students in every aspect of theatre and film. Majoring in the Department leads to a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre, Film, and Digital Production. Students begin their studies by examining all the elements of drama, production, and performance and then gradually focusing attention on a particular area of interest by selecting one of five tracks: Literature, History, Criticism, and Dramaturgy; Writing for the Performing Arts; Film Making; Acting and Directing; and Production and Design. Each year, TFDP produces a season of new and classic shows directed and designed by faculty and guest artists. Playworks and New Play Festival, produced in the spring quarter of each year, showcase the work of graduate and undergraduate writers through staged readings of new plays. TFDP also produces department films featuring scripts by MFA students, with faculty and guest artist directors, cinematographers, and designers. Financial support is available to TFDP majors through a number and variety of scholarships, grants, and stipends. Students may also apply for paid positions to work in the production shops. TFDP also offers a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and Writing for the Performing Arts. This unique two-year program, offered in conjunction with the Department of Creative Writing, admits students in a primary genre but offers the opportunity to also write in fiction, creative non-fiction, poetry, screenwriting, and playwriting. Fellowships, teaching assistantships, and fee support are available.