Mission Statement, Goals & Student Learning Outcomes

Metamorphoses Production PhotoMission Statement
The Department of Theatre Arts at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse endeavors to provide students with the tools necessary to function as complete artists and self-realized individuals, combining theatrical training with a strong liberal arts curriculum. A combination of classroom training and realized production work allows for a well rounded college experience with an emphasis on the collaborative and creative process.

Program Objectives
In order to achieve these goals, the program is designed to prepare students to:

  1. Effectively practice the theatre arts by being involved in the creation and presentation of the public performances in the theatre.
  2. Develop visual and aural perceptions related to theatre performance.
  3. Develop a structured approach to interpretation of language in dramatic texts.
  4. Understand basic production processes such as acting, directing, scenic, costume, and lighting design, management, and technical operations related to production.
  5. Become familiar with and develop competence in a number of theatrical techniques.
  6. Become familiar with the historical and cultural dimensions of theatre, including the works of leading playwrights, actors, directors, and designers.
  7. Understand and evaluate contemporary thinking about theatre and related arts.
  8. Develop inter-cultural and multi-cultural understanding, as well as perception of the universal and timeless human conflicts presented in dramatic works.
  9. Develop the creative thinking necessary for concrete expression.
  10. Make assessments of quality in theatrical works that are informed by open-mindedness to differing viewpoints and alternate goals.
  11. Develop the discipline, cooperation, accountability, and perseverance necessary for positive self-identification and success in life.
  12. Develop an appreciation for a broad liberal arts education.

Student Learning Outcomes
The study of theatre combines the knowledge and skills required of a performer, creator, teacher, theorists, and historian. Undergraduate studies in theatre should prepare students for a variety of collaborative artistic roles.

Theatre students should:

  • Trip To Bountiful Costume Renderingbe involved in the creation and presentation of public performances in theatre.
  • develop visual and aural perceptions related to theatre performance.
  • develop intellectual skills needed to analyze play scripts and other dramatic texts.
  • understand basic production processes such as acting, directing, scenic, costume, make-up, lighting and sound design, stage and theatre management, technical direction and operations related to productions.
  • become familiar with and develop competence in a number of theatrical techniques.
  • become familiar with the historical and cultural dimensions of theatre, including the works of leading playwrights, directors, actors, designers, historians and theorists both past and present.
  • understand and evaluate contemporary thinking about theatre and related arts.
  • make informed assessments of quality works of theatre.