Theatre Performance (BFA)

Bachelor of Fine Arts

Theatre Performance Degree

About the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance at Missouri Southern State University is a professional degree focused on intensive training in acting, voice, movement, and live stage performance. Students gain hands-on experience through applied performance, production work, and studio-based instruction.

This program is designed for students pursuing careers in acting and professional theatre. The curriculum includes advanced performance training, theatre history, stage production, and regular participation in productions and performance-based coursework.

The BFA in Theatre Performance provides conservatory-style training within a university setting, emphasizing technical skill development, collaboration, and real-world performance experience.

Is the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance Right for You?

The BFA in Theatre Performance is a strong fit for students committed to serious, performance-based training in acting and stage work.

This program may be right for you if you:

Want to pursue a professional career in acting or performance
Prefer intensive, hands-on studio and production-based learning
Are willing to participate regularly in rehearsals and theatre productions
Plan to continue into professional theatre or graduate study

What You'll Learn in the Program

In the program, you’ll build advanced acting and performance skills through structured training, studio work, and production experience.

Develop advanced acting techniques and character work
Train in voice, speech, movement, and theatrical dance
Gain experience in live performance and production participation
Study theatre history, literature, and dramatic interpretation
Learn stagecraft, directing, and collaborative production roles
Strengthen professional audition and performance skills
Participate in applied lessons, juries, and performance evaluations

BFA in Theatre Performance Careers

A theatre performance degree prepares students for professional performance careers and continued graduate study in theatre and related fields.

Graduates of MSSU’s Theatre Performance program often work as:

Professional actor or stage performer
Theatre company or ensemble member
Touring or regional theatre performer
Graduate student in acting or performance studies
Performer in commercial, film, or television work (with additional training)

Curriculum & Courses

The BFA in Theatre Performance includes a structured sequence of applied performance, studio classes, theatre history, production work, and advanced performance training, along with required participation in productions and juries.

For full course requirements and program details, view the official catalog:

BFA Theatre Performance Catalog Details

Program Format, Location & Schedule

Format: On campus
Location: Missouri Southern State University, Joplin, Missouri
Study Options: Full-time study required due to performance and production requirements
Time to Completion: Typically four years, including intensive studio and production work

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