KENOSHA, Wis. – Carthage College is expanding its performing arts academic offerings this fall with a new Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Arts, providing students with an additional pathway for immersive, specialized training in theatre.
Designed for students seeking deeper specialization in theatre, the BFA combines professional training with concentrations in performance, technical production and design, or playmaking and dramatic literature.
“At Carthage, students don’t just study theatre; they create it,” said Herschel Kruger, chair of the theatre department. “Our students perform, design, direct, build, and collaborate from day one. The new BFA offers an opportunity for even greater depth and specialization while building on the strengths that have long defined theatre at Carthage.”
Working alongside faculty mentors, students gain both experience as performers and across every aspect of production, including scene and costume design, lighting, sound, stage management, directing, playwriting, and technical production. Through coursework and productions, students build their portfolios while developing the practical skills valued throughout the industry.
The new BFA builds on Carthage’s established performing arts programs, including the Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and the Bachelor of Music in Musical Theatre. Students also benefit from distinctive opportunities such as the New Play Initiative, which develops original works, and The Verbatim Theatre Project, where students create documentary-style theatre based on interviews and lived experiences.
The first cohort of BFA students will train in the recently renovated Wartburg Theatre, featuring upgraded lighting and sound systems, improved seating, and a new box office.
The college has received numerous regional and national honors through the American College Theatre Festival, a program that helps emerging artists develop their skills to a professional level. Carthage has also brought performances to international audiences, including a recent performance at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest performing arts festival.
“This is a logical next step for our program, which already counts numerous alumni with Broadway, national tour, film/TV and leadership roles,” says Corinne Ness, Dean of Arts, Humanities and Education. “With our nationally recognized Aspire Program for career development, and the professional focus of this BFA, we know we will be preparing students for exceptional careers in the arts.”
Applications are now being accepted. First-year students are encouraged to apply for Carthage Theatre Scholarships. For more information, contact Herschel Kruger at hkruger@carthage.edu or visit www.carthage.edu/theatre.
