Theatre

Faculty

Ian F. MacInnes, chair and professor.
B.A., 1987, Swarthmore College; M.A., 1990, Ph.D., 1995, University of Virginia. Appointed 1994.

Mark E. Hoffland, staff lecturer.
B.A., 1983, Augsburg College; M.F.A., 1990, Michigan State University. Appointed 2007.

Robert J. Starko, assistant professor.
B.A., 1974, State University of New York at Oneonta; M.F.A., 1991, Illinois State University. Appointed 1999.

Introduction

The goal of Albion College’s Department of Theatre is to provide the College community with examples of the best theatre and dance from our cultural heritage and from contemporary life. We value the effectiveness of theatre and dance to explore issues of human consequence and to offer to the student, as performer, designer, technician and audience, the opportunity for self-affirmation and self-actualization. The curriculum, therefore, balances a sequence of literature and history courses with the traditional theatre process courses in performance and production as well as dance technique and choreography. Students develop simultaneously their analytical and research skills with their imaginative and creative skills. In the classroom, in the laboratory and in performance, students acquire the knowledge and experiences essential to becoming a gifted theatre artist and an informed audience member.

Participation in theatre and dance productions is open to all students enrolled at the College. Our productions have, on-stage and back-stage, a diverse mix of collaborators from all disciplines. Theatre majors are expected to complement their course work with active participation in the department’s programs. Four major theatre productions, two student productions and one dance performance yearly provide the opportunity to gain a thorough knowledge of all facets of theatre production. Majors are expected to participate in all assessment objectives as outlined by the department.

Theatre Department Website

Career Opportunities

Professions open to graduates of the department include theatre and dance performance, production design, arts management, teaching at all levels, arts criticism and arts advocacy. Many of our majors pursue graduate study in the specialized fields of performance, directing, design, theatre history and literature and criticism.

Special Features

Juniors and seniors have the opportunity to participate in semester apprenticeships and internships in theatre through the GLCA New York Arts Program and in international opportunities which focus on literary, cultural and artistic experiences. Dance frequently brings in guest artists of regional and national reputation in order to broaden the exposure of the students to different styles. The theatre program at Albion has close ties with the regionally-based Purple Rose Theatre Company and Performance Network. It also sponsors the Kurtz Theatre Enrichment Series which brings outstanding theatre scholars and practitioners to the campus. The department is very active in the American College Theatre Festival, sending a number of students to the annual conference each year.

Programs

• Theatre, B.A.

• Theatre Minor