Department of Theatre

Beki Baker, Associate Professor and Chair
Nathaniel McIntyre, Assistant Professor
Andy Bleiler, Assistant Professor
Kari Smith, Instructor

Lipscomb University’s Department of Theatre is committed to leading the future in arts education through rigorous training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and faith-focused community. On our stages, you will join the next generation of artists who are cultivating the discipline and passion it takes to impact communities and make a difference in many lives around the world. Discover how your talent and training will come together here in a way that will guide you into a meaningful and influential artistic life.

B.F.A. in Theatre with Track Emphasis

This professional degree allows students the opportunity to take classes geared toward a specific interest in theatre. This degree is appropriate for those who upon graduation wish to go directly into the professional theatre world or to graduate school.

B.A. Degree in Theatre or Theatre Teaching

The general theatre degree plan is an excellent choice for students who love theatre but also have other interests. Students wishing to double-major in theatre and some other field should pursue this degree.

Teaching is a noble career, and Lipscomb is known for producing excellent teachers. Students interested in teaching at the elementary, junior high, or high school level should choose the theatre teaching major.

Distinctives of the Theatre Department

Professional Collaborations

Every year, our department collaborates with local professional theatre companies, including the Nashville Repertory Theatre, Nashville Shakespeare Festival, Blackbird Theater Company, and more. These collaborations are integral to our identity, and fundamental to our training. Students have the unique opportunity to work alongside professionals, either onstage or behind the scenes, as part of their undergraduate experience. These collaborations offer real-time professional experiences and the chance to connect with people working in the industry right now.

Faith and Art Intersection

Central to our artistic work is the cornerstone of faith. Students explore the intersection of faith and art through coursework, productions, theatre breakout chapels and service opportunities.

Strong Professional Connections

Lipscomb is committed to hosting visiting artists with strong professional credentials. Previous artists include Broadway performers Eden Espinosa, Chuck Wagner, Eric Peterson, Emily Ferranti, Kate Reinders, among many national touring artists. Major playwrights include John Patrick Shanley, Tina Howe, and Nashville-favorite Nate Eppler. Lipscomb also hires many local artists to share their areas of expertise. For 2016-2018, famed Something Rotten! composer Wayne Kirkpatrick served as our Artist-in-Residence.

Internships

Students are encouraged to participate in internships throughout the city and country. Our students have served at several prestigious theatres including Nashville Children’s Theatre, Nashville Repertory Theatre, Barrington Stage Company, Creed Repertory Theatre, Florida Repertory Theatre, Orlando Shakespeare Festival, Peach State Summer Theatre, Great River Shakespeare Festival, Nashville Shakespeare Festival, and more.

Foundation Dance Theatre

Founded by our dance faculty, Foundation Dance Theatre expands the training of Lipscomb students interested in performing dance. FDT hosts auditions every semester for those interested, and all may apply. The dance company produces a yearly dance concert titled Elevate.

London Study Abroad and New York City Trip

Theatre students have a unique opportunity to spend a few weeks in London studying theatre and attending productions in London’s vaunted West End. BFA students are now required as part of their courses to take a one-week trip to New York City to attend important educational workshops and see Broadway shows. Students will take this course in the winter of their senior year.

Program of Study Requirements

Major

Minor