Theatre and Drama Studies
In the Bachelor of Arts in Drama and Theatre Studies, creativity takes center stage. This flexible program builds a strong foundation in the practical and pedagogical aspects of devised performance and theatre creation, while allowing you to explore your passions and shape your own artistic and academic journey.
You’ll study new plays, develop scripts, explore the work of theatre masters, and engage with theatre for social change. You’ll also take part in an exciting final-year research symposium that expands both your mind and your experience —a chance to present your creative work, research, or performance ideas to peers, faculty, and the wider theatre community.
Designed for students whose interests extend beyond theatre, this dynamic degree offers up to 14 open electives, to tailor your studies to your unique creative and academic goals—whether within theatre or in a minor in another field. You’ll graduate ready to thrive in a world that values creative, adaptable leaders and collaborative team players with a broad range of skills.
Explore theatre and expand your mind in this program that both provides a comprehensive foundation in theatre, while allowing you to explore your other academic and creative interests.
What is Theatre and Drama Studies?
Theatre and Drama Studies is all about bringing stories to life through performance. In this program, you’ll have the opportunity to explore everything from acting and directing to playwriting, stage design, and theatre production. You'll dive into theatrical history, dramatic literature, and the role of theatre in shaping culture and society.
Through hands-on learning and creative exploration, you’ll unlock your potential in performance, collaboration, and critical thinking—opening doors both on and beyond the stage. Whether you see yourself in theatre, education, media, or the arts, this program gives you the tools to express yourself, engage audiences, and make an impact.
Some of the courses available in this program include:
THTR 139 - Theatre Design I
This course introduces students to the foundations of reading and understanding the visual world. What meanings do we give to polka dots? What meanings do we give red? What meanings do we give satin or brick? Students will focus on the reading and analysis of live and mediated performances within a larger cultural framework.
THTR 240 - Cabaret: Rehearsal & Performance
Building upon the foundational work of THTR 135, this course culminates in an end-of-term Cabaret showcase devised by the students.
THTR 202 - Playwriting
This course provides basic skills and approaches to writing a play. Students will develop theatrical texts through writing exercises, readings and peer critique. Of interest to writers of all media.
THTR 313 - Decolonizing Dramaturgy
In this class you might explore the dramaturgies of decolonization; or the dramaturgies of non-verbal theatre; or the dramaturgies of verbatim theatre; or the dramaturgies of new play development while also conducting dramaturgical work supporting an upcoming production/performance.
THTR 311 - Voice and Movement II
Intermediate level of voice and movement training/techniques. Pedagogy and curriculum in selected topics in voice and movement respond to the needs of students.
THTR 314 - Devised Theatre in Canada
The innovations in Canadian Devised Theatre past and present, including Collective Creation and Performance Creation, with a special emphasis on the role played by Saskatchewan.
THTR 319 - Technical Production III
Adding to the skills developed in THTR 219, this course examines work on a proscenium stage and introduces fly systems, rigging, and impact larger spaces have on lighting, sound, and projection systems. Practical work has an increased focus on safety for cast, crew, and audience.
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Why Study Theatre and Drama Studies at the University of Regina?
Expert faculty and technicians
Theatre faculty are active professionals, traveling nationally and internationally to act, direct, design, devise, and teach in their areas of expertise. We also have skilled technicians specializing in production, props/set construction, and costume design. This combination of academic achievement and practical experience ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that is both intellectually stimulating and professionally relevant.Small classes
As a Theatre student, you'll benefit from small class sizes, a low student-to-professor ratio, and comprehensive, hands-on training in a supportive learning environment.Flexibility and electives
With up to 14 electives, you can explore both your academic and creative interests. You also have the option to declare a minor, which can be discussed with your academic advisor upon admission to the program.Study abroad opportunities
Immerse yourself in theatre on an international scale and study abroad with UR International! As a theatre student, you can take advantage of a unique opportunity to study abroad for a semester in the United Kingdom or the United States while paying domestic tuition fees. Plus, we have established partnerships with universities in Mexico, Greece, and China, offering even more global learning experiences.World class facilities
The Department of Theatre is home to world-class facilities where you can learn, create, and bring your imagination to life:
- Spacious studios and workshops
- A flexible 165-seat black box, open space theatre (Shumiatcher Theatre)
- A modern proscenium theatre equipped with a balcony and fly tower (University Theatre)
- Scene and wardrobe shops that feature current, high-quality equipment
Industry partnerships and community connections
The Theatre Department at the University of Regina is proud to partner with the Globe Theatre—Canada’s only theatre-in-the-round, showcasing both local and national talent. This growing alliance creates unique opportunities not often found in other theatre programs.
The department is also home to the Centre for Socially Engaged Theatre, providing students with access to innovative research opportunities. Additionally, we’ve built strong connections with local arts organizations, including Curtain Razors Theatre, On Cue Performance Hub, and Riser Regina.Theatre and Drama Studies Frequently Asked Questions
You may be eligible for scholarships, financial aid, or other funding opportunities.
Scholarships:
- You are encouraged to explore available scholarships and awards options.
Financial aid:
- Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and designated protected persons may qualify for Canada Student Financial Aid, which provides loans and grants to help cover education costs.
- International students on a study permit should explore financial aid options available in their home country or consider loan opportunities through local banks.
Tuition fees vary depending on whether you are a domestic or international student. To see the cost per credit hour for the Faculty of Media, Art, and Performance visit the Tuition and Fee Schedule.
This degree program requires 120 credit hours (40 courses).
Note: Some courses may have additional fees for materials, such as studio classes in costume construction or set/props building. While all public performances are free for U of R students with a valid ID, there may be additional fees for classes attending theatre productions in the Regina theatre community.
You can also use the Undergraduate Budget Calculator to estimate your annual university expenses.The Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Drama Studies offers a well-rounded education in both the theory and practice of theatre, combining courses in performance, theatre history, and literature. It provides flexibility through open electives, allowing you to tailor your studies to your interests, whether that’s within theatre or in another field entirely. This program is perfect for students who want to explore a broad range of theatre aspects, including acting, directing, writing, and production, while gaining a deep understanding of theatre’s cultural and historical context.
In comparison, the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Devised Performance and Theatre Creation is a focused program designed for those passionate about creating original theatre projects. Focused on devised theatre, this degree emphasizes the creation and production of innovative, original works, equipping you with skills in acting, writing, movement, design, and dramaturgy. The BFA is ideal for students who want to develop their artistic voice and create both solo and collaborative performances.What Can You Do with a Theatre and Drama Studies Degree?
The BA in Theatre and Drama Studies equips you with key theatre artist skills and helps you develop leadership, public speaking, writing, and teamwork abilities. You'll also build the confidence to turn creative ideas into action and work collaboratively in diverse environments. These abilities prepare you for careers in theatre and beyond, where creativity and leadership are highly valued.
This degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate studies in theatre and performance, as well as further education in alternate career paths such as education, business and administration, communications, and journalism.
Some of the possible career paths for graduates include:- Professional Actor, Playwright, or Dramaturg
- Theatre Technician, Stage Manager, or Director
- Arts Administrator or Consultant
- Publicist or General Manager in arts organizations
- Roles in museums, galleries, libraries, or the non-profit sector
- Pathway to graduate studies, including law school
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