M.F.A. in Acting

Program Overview

The University of Texas at Austin Department of Theatre and Dance is a department where we pride ourselves in producing the finest of artist/scholars. Our graduates are not only among the most talented actors in their cohort, but are also among the brightest. We accept only highly motivated, talented individuals wishing to pursue acting as a career, who are intellectually curious. Actors are trained for stage, film, television and voice-overs. We encourage all to apply regardless of "type."

The Winship Building, which houses the Department of Theatre and Dance, brings together all the disciplines that make for the practice of performance: actors, directors, dancers, writers, designers, dramaturgs, theatre historians/academicians, etc. It has been said that "all you need as a theatre practitioner is found here at UT, all under one roof." Courses are taught, and projects are mounted in the department that reflect close interdisciplinary collaborations between all aspects of the arts.

Austin, Texas is thriving theatrically. While there are three established theatres that hire Equity actors, Austin is also building a national reputation with independently produced works and fringe theatre, such as Rude Mechanicals, Salvage Vanguard Theatre, and The Vortex. We have formalized a professional internship association with the State Theatre, allowing M.F.A. Acting students to be cast in at least one State Theatre production during their six semesters, for which they qualify for Equity Membership Candidacy points. In each of these venues, our students have had the opportunity to work professionally. Every effort is made to assist M.F.A. actors in securing work in various summer stock companies, frequently through yearly auditions on campus. Austin is also home to a growing film community for independent and studio productions, including the Texas Film Institute/Burnt Orange Productions.

In recent years, the department has brought in top professionals from all areas of the field. Stacey Keach; The Alley Theatre, in residence with A View from the Bridge; Ralph Zito, voice teacher from The Juilliard School; Drew Frascher and David Wooley, nationally certified stage combat teachers; nationally recognized stage directors such as Ken Albers, Jesse Berger, Phillip Goodwin, Jonathan Miller, Johanna McKeon, and Paul Mullins; Barbara Barrie, stage, film and television actress; actress Laura Linney; and Marcia Gay Harden, Academy Award winning film and television actress.

Curriculum

Current Students

How to Apply

M.F.A. Actor Showcase 2007

M.F.A. Actor Showcase 2004

Graduate Program FAQ

Contact Information

U/RTA