“Actors coming out of the Western Michigan School of Theatre are certainly among the best and most sought-after students I have encountered during my 25 years of recruiting for three nationally ranked graduate programs. They are extremely talented, expertly trained, and fully prepared for the rigors of the next level of training.”
- Jim Wise, Professor of Acting/MFA acting program, The Pennsylvania State University

The BFA program in Musical Theatre is designed specifically to train the Music Theatre Performer. A collaboration between the Departments of Theatre and Dance and the School of Music, this conservatory style training prepares students for careers in musical comedy, operetta, opera, dance, and theatre.

For a complete curriculum guide and list of course descriptions for Music Theatre Performance, click here.

Students get four years of private vocal instruction, professional theatre training and professional dance training in ballet, jazz and tap. Courses in music theory, directing, script analysis, stagecraft, and theatre history are also required in this demanding, well-rounded curriculum. An impressive student to faculty ratio makes very personalized, one-on-one training with faculty possible. Master classes with nationally recognized, professional artists are also provided to expand the academic experience beyond the classroom.

Students receive varied performance opportunities in the Department’s nine-show season, offering experiences in three different theatre spaces. The Stars and Moon Cabaret series provides an opportunity for Seniors to create their own cabaret and perform for audiences in the Atrium of the Gilmore Theatre Complex following most University Theatre productions. Onstage experience can also be found in department-supported, student-directed work through the directing classes and Footlight productions, as well as the New Play Project offered each summer. Students are given professional audition and interview opportunities on campus, as well as a chance to showcase their talent in New York City for industry agents and casting directors.

Alumni from the WMU Music Theatre Department have been seen on Broadway in West Side Story, Jersey Boys, Chicago, Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Shrek the Musical, Spamalot, The Wedding Singer, Wicked and Gypsy. Alumni have also been seen on national tours of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, The Drowsy Chaperone, Hairspray, MAMMA MIA!, Rent, Seussical the Musical, and Thoroughly Modern Millie. Our graduates can also be found at Cedar Point, Walt Disney World and on the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line.

For further information on Department of Theatre majors or the minor, contact Sandy Duke, Academic Advisor, at sandy.duke@wmich.edu.