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University of Memphis Department of Theatre and Dance

University of Memphis — Memphis, TN

3745 Central Ave.
Memphis, Tennessee 38152
901.678.2523
admissions@memphis.edu

Upcoming productions

Upcoming student productions at University of Memphis
Show Dates School
9/24 – 9/26/2026 University of Memphis Memphis
10/29 – 11/1/2026 University of Memphis Memphis
11/20 – 11/22/2026 University of Memphis Memphis
2/18 – 2/21/2027 University of Memphis Memphis
3/26 – 3/27/2027 University of Memphis Memphis
4/22 – 4/25/2027 University of Memphis Memphis

View full college calendar…

Degrees offered

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Science
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Entertianment Design and Technology
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre

Master of Fine Arts in Directing
Master of Fine Arts in Entertainment Design and Technology

About the program

The Department of Theatre and Dance at the University of Memphis fosters the development of our students on an individual basis. We offer a BFA in Theatre with concentrations in Acting, Dance, Dance Science, Entertainment Design and Technology, and Musical Theatre, as well as an MFA in Directing and Entertainment Design and Technology. We tailor our program to your needs. We offer dynamic performance, design, and production opportunities both in the classroom and in our four performance spaces. We also create an intimate community for intense one-on-one learning opportunities. Our faculty nurtures the individual progress of each student. We offer the opportunity for students to explore a range of areas within the theatre or a specialization in only one. More Information for students looking to join the Department of Theatre and Dance for Fall 2026 can be found at https://www.memphis.edu/theatre/admissions/

Acceptance rate

Reported acceptance rate (source/year not provided by school): The University of Memphis Department of Theatre and Dance's theatre acceptance rate is not publicly available as a specific number. Admission is a two-step process: first, students apply to the University of Memphis, and then separately to the Department of Theatre and Dance.

Faculty

  • Dr. Jacob AllenChair – Musical Theatre Performance
  • Music Theory
  • Musical Theatre HistoryRachael ArnwineAssistant Professor – Head of Dance – Jazz
  • Tap
  • Ballet
  • Contemporary
  • Musical Theatre
  • Modern
  • ChoreographySusan BrindleyAdjunct Professor of Musical TheatreSarah BrownProfessor – Performance – Solo Performance
  • Mask Performance
  • Commedia
  • Acting for TV and Film
  • Audition PreparationClaire CarvajalAssistant Technical DirectorHolly L. DerrArtistic Director and Head of Directing – Theatre History
  • Dramatic Literature
  • Theory & CriticismEmily DraffenCommunications SpecialistTamara N. FranklinAdjunct Professor of Dance – Strength and ConditioningAmy Salerno HaleProduction Manager / Stage Management MentorKinon KeplingerFinancial Services AssociateKathleen KovarikCostume Shop ManagerKristen Osborne LucasAdjunct Professor of Dance – Contemporary Techniques
  • Somatic Practices
  • Dance Pedagogy
  • Introduction to Dance
  • Dance in Diverse Settings Michael S. O'NeleAssociate Professor – Technical Director – Technical Design
  • Management & FabricationAnthony PellecchiaAssociate Professor – Head of Design and Technology – Lighting Design
  • Sound Design
  • Multi-MediaNeile MartinAdjunct Professor of DanceKenann Modjeska QuanderAssistant Professor – Costume Design
  • Visual History
  • Costume Technology
  • Principles of Costume Design
  • RenderingBrian J. RuggaberAssociate Professor – Scenic Design
  • Properties
  • Scenic Painting
  • AutoCAD
  • RenderingCarmen SavageAdjunct Professor of DanceMichael ShipleyAssociate Professor – Head of Performance/ActingWayne M. SmithAdjunct Professor of DanceNathan ThomasInterim Associate Chair – Assistant Professor of Practice – Head of Musical Theatre – Musical Theatre Performance
  • Audition Prep
  • Music SkillsJohn J. YorkeAssociate Professor of Teaching – Graduate Studies Coordinator – Introduction to Theatre
  • Script Analysis
  • Directing Experiments

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