Theatre Practicum

A student works in the scene shop at SUNY Oneonta

Theatre Practicum is applied learning which allows students to earn credit by:

  • Performing in a faculty-directed production (lead, supporting, or ensemble acting role)
  • Contributing to a production team (stage manager, assistant stage manager, designer, assistant director, dramaturg, props coordinator, master electrician, etc)
  • Working in the shops (carpenter, electrician, painter, stitcher, etc)
  • Helping on a run crew (make-up artist, wardrobe supervisor, light board operator, follow-spot operator, fly operator, dresser, make-up assistant, etc)

Students do not have to be theatre majors to earn practicum credit. Theatre majors must complete a required amount of practicum as indicated in the Major Requirements. There are two courses which offer practicum credit:

How to Register

Registering for a practicum course requires faculty approval and the process depends on whether the practicum is performance or technical in nature. Registration for THTR 1996 vs THTR 3996 is determined by whether the student is a theatre major, and by the time commitment and level of responsibility involved in the specific practicum opportunity.

Performance Practicum

  1. Audition for a production
  2. If cast, register for practicum with the show's director

Technical Practicum

  1. Apply for a position. Available positions are posted on the Call Board outside the Theatre Department office, FA-106. Applications should be submitted to the department secretary and must consist of; a letter of interest, a schedule of conflicts, and (for THTR 3996 only) a copy of your resume.
  2. Faculty and staff review submitted applications and offer available positions based on experience, qualifications, and opportunities for student development.
  3. If approved, register for practicum with the assigned faculty instructor.

Students interested in advanced production team positions should also seek advice before applying. Students interested in lighting, scenery, costume, sound, or prop design, stage management, dramaturgy, or directing should seek advice from Theatre Department faculty and staff.

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