MFA in Theatre: Directing
The Graduate Directing Program at Illinois State University offers three years of intensive study in the artistry and craft of the theatre director. The program features a broad-based curriculum, offers extensive production experience, and affords opportunities for internships with professional companies, including the Illinois Shakespeare Festival.
Curriculum
The School of Theatre and Dance trains directors to be creative artists and collaborative leaders. To that end, in coursework and in production work, the director's focus is two-fold:
- Developing, exploring, and challenging the artistic impulse through the study of drama theory, history, and criticism.
- Dealing with the practical aspects of production through thorough text analysis, research, and effective rehearsal techniques.
Over the course of three years, directors practice their craft in diverse forums, ranging from scene work in the classroom to full productions in a variety of performance spaces.
More detailed information on program requirements and course descriptions can be found in the Graduate Catalog.
Production Opportunities
M.F.A. Directing students take on a variety of production responsibilities each year. First-year students direct two shows (a one-act and a full-length production) in an intimate proscenium space with a minimum of technical support. The focus for these projects is on the actor-director collaboration. First-year students also assist faculty directors in MainStage productions.
Second-year students direct two full-length plays, one of which is a Shakespeare or period "language" play. Both productions receive design and technical support, although budgets are kept small to model the challenges of Chicago storefront theatres.
In the third year, students direct a full-length production in either the Center for Performing Arts or the Westhoff Experimental Theatre. This production receives full design and technical support.
Professional Practice
Third-year M.F.A. students in Directing are required to complete a one-semester internship with a professional urban or regional theatre. Former students have worked at such prestigious theatres as the Guthrie Theatre, Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, the Manhattan Theatre Club, and such Chicago theatres as the Goodman, Victory Gardens, and Steppenwolf.
M.F.A. Directing students may also apply to intern with the Illinois Shakespeare Festival during the summer, working as assistants for professional directors from across the country.
Teaching Opportunities
M.F.A. students at Illinois State University receive training and gain experience in teaching at the college/university level. Graduate students in Directing are required to engage in supervised instructional experiences, including teaching a beginning undergraduate directing class. M.F.A. Directing students may also teach a variety of other courses and participate in the educational outreach program of the Illinois Shakespeare Festival.
Recruitment
The Graduate Directing Program at Illinois State University accepts two candidates each year who have demonstrated the potential to become professional directors. Successful candidates are passionate about their work, have a deep respect for text and storytelling, and are curious about the world around them.
Preference is given to mature individuals with well-developed personal aesthetics and demonstrated leadership abilities. Candidates who have recently matriculated from an undergraduate program are encouraged to gain additional professional experience before applying.
Admission
Application to Illinois State University may be made on-line using the Graduate Admission Application. Also, at the Graduate School web site, you will find information about required transcripts and fees that should accompany your application.
Prospective students must also apply to the School of Theatre and Dance for admission to the M.F.A. Directing Program. This can be done directly or through U/RTA. Candidates are asked to submit a resume, letter of intent, and statement of purpose, addressing why they make theater, professional and artistic goals, and appropriateness of training at this time. These written materials should be submitted, no later than January 1, directly to:
School of Theatre and Dance,
Campus Box 5700,
Normal, IL 61790-5700
Specific questions may be directed to Professor Deb Alley, Head of the Graduate Directing Program.
Success for M.F.A. Directing Alumni
Graduates from the directing program at Illinois State University work in a wide range of academic and professional positions. M.F.A. directing alumni include:
- Gary Griffin – Associate Artistic Director of the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre and director of The Color Purple on Broadway.
- Nancy Robillard – New York and regional theatre director.
- Stephen Alexander – Producing Artistic Director of the Painted Maniac Theatre in Portland, Oregon, and freelance director/composer/lyricist.
- Mace Archer – Chair of the Theatre Department at Randolph College and former Artistic Director of Venture Theatre in Bozeman, Montana.
- Eric Bramlett – Creative Arts Director at Community Christian Church in Naperville, Illinois.
- Steve Young – Assistant Professor at Texas Woman’s University and freelance director/writer/actor.
- Tricia McDermott – Artistic Director of Airmid Theatre Company in New York City.
- Deb Alley – Head of the M.F.A. Directing Program at Illinois State University and former Artistic Director of the Illinois Shakespeare Festival.
- Bill Osetek – Artistic Director at Drury Lane Theatre-Oakbrook in Chicago, Illinois.
- Rachel Chaves – Assistant Professor at Young Harris College and founder of Brasstown Repertory Theatre Company in Hiawassee, Georgia.
- Bill Jenkins – Chair of the Theatre Department at Ball State University and freelance director.
- Peter Sullivan – Artistic Director at Boho Theatre in Chicago, Illinois, and freelance director.
- Rebekah Scallet – Producing Artistic Director at the Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre.
For more information about School of Theatre and Dance alumni please visit our Alumni page.
