M.F.A. in Directing

Program Overview

The M.F.A. Directing Program at UT is a highly selective professional training program, targeted to mid-career theatre artists of proven expertise, and designed to rigorously embrace the evolving role of the 21st century director. As a department committed to the comprehensive training of directors and the creation of new works for the stage, we believe directing to be both a collaborative and generative craft - and thus our program welcomes artists from a variety of theatrical disciplines and backgrounds who seek a vigorous interdisciplinary approach to the art of making theatre. Emphasizing practical skills, intellectual breadth, and an intensive, hands-on approach, our program offers a wide-ranging and aesthetically diverse exposure to plays both, classical and new, realistic and experimental. Internships with professional theatres around the country, as well as opportunities to work in Austin's vibrant and eclectic theatre community are also available.

While there are two 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. Many of our students have had the opportunity to work in a number of these venues. Austin is also home to a growing film community for independent and studio productions, including the Texas Film Institute/Burnt Orange Productions. Over recent years we have built liaisons with the Department of Radio-Television-Film, allowing both theatre and film students to work in collaboration on camera related projects.

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; Barbara Barrie, stage, film and television actress; actress Laura Linney; and Marcia Gay Harden, Academy Award winning film and television actress; and nationally recognized stage directors such as Ken Albers, Jesse Berger, Phillip Goodwin, Jonathan Miller, Johanna McKeon, and Paul Mullins.