Theatre & Performance
Why study theatre at UTSC?
- Theatre and Performance program combines the critical study of theatre with hands-on experiential training
- Students gain opportunities to investigate theatre and performance from the multiple vantage points of performers, directors, designers, technicians, and scholars.
- The program offers four complementary areas of focus – analysis of performance; practical, artistic skills of theatre-maker; non-commercial uses of theatre; and experiential ensemble-based process of performing theatre
- Taking advantage of its location in Toronto, the program includes field trips, guest lectures, workshops, and unique collaborations with working artists which provides students with new knowledge, skills and exposure to working professionals in the field.
- The program now offers a Combined Degree Programs for UTSC Honours Bachelor of Arts (HBA) with the Master of Teaching (MT) offered by the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education.
- Learn more by watching the videos on this page or browsing through the TAPS alumni page on Facebook: @UTSCtheatre or on Instagram @utsctap
Contact
Should you have any questions regarding the Theatre and Performance program at the University of Toronto Scarborough, please send us an email.
Faculty
Barry Freeman | Associate Professor, Program Director
Elliot Leffler | Assistant Professor
Carla Melo | Assistant Professor
Retired Faculty
Trisha Lamie | Associate Professor, Teaching Stream
Michal Schonberg | Professor Emeritus
Paula Sperdakos | Associate Professor
Theatre & Performance FAQ
What will my first year look like?
In your first year, you will take the THRA10H3: Introduction to Theatre and THRA11 Introduction to Performance. THRA10H3 provides students with a general introduction to theatre as a social institution and collaborative performing art, and THRA11H3 introduces students to the actor’s craft – a study of basic physical, vocal, psychological and analytical tools of the actor/performer. If your schedule permits, you may take other courses in the program, provided you meet the prerequisites. You may also choose to audition for the annual faculty show in either THRB55H3 (Actors in Action), or THRB56H3 (Creating a Production).
Will I need to audition to register in a TAPS program?
No, auditions are not required for entry into either of the Major or Minor program in Theatre and Performance. Students intending to pursue a program in Theatre and Performance should take THRA10H3, and THRA11H3 in their first year, as they are prerequisites to progress through the areas of focuses. Enrollment in THRA11H3 is based on successful completion of THRA10H3.
What are the requirements for the Major and Minor programs?
For the Major Program, students must complete 8.0 full credits and for the Minor Program, students must complete 4.0 full credits. For details, please see the Registrar’s Calendar.
I am not registered in a TAPS program but I love the theatre. What are my options for taking TAPS courses or participating in TAPS performances?
Some courses do not require you to have taken any other THR courses and can therefore be taken by anyone on campus. Also, as stated above, auditions for the annual faculty production are open to everyone. The campus also has a student-led ‘Drama Society’ and an Improv Troupe which puts on shows in the theatre throughout the year, although this activity is all extra-curricular and not for credit.
Is there a theatre at UTSC?
Yes. You can read more about the Leigha Lee Browne Theatre here.
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
Should you have any questions regarding the Theatre & Performance program at the University of Toronto Scarborough, please send us an email.
How do I apply to this program?
High school students: To find this program on the OUAC website, search under University of Toronto Scarborough (found under the University of Toronto entry) under the category "Visual and Performing Arts, Arts Management & Media" (program code TUC); you will then be able to choose this program under the 'Subject of Major Interest' drop-down menu.
UTSC students: Declare your program on ACORN (see here for details)
