Bachelors of Fine Arts – Stage Management

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Stage Management degree offers the training to become a well-rounded stage manager in both performance and business theatre through an offering of theatrical experiences of a professional caliber. 

Students will:

  • Develop leadership, collaboration, and communication skills.
  • Develop an understanding of theatrical design, drawing, and drafting.
  • Develop an understanding of industry standard stage management paperwork.
  • Gain experience managing the design and production process in MainStage productions.
  • Learn about the variety of unions that reside within the entertainment industry.
  • Gain knowledge around issues of physical and emotional safety for performers and technicians alike.
  • Learn how to properly and safely manage staged movement that involves combat or intimate moments.
  • Simulate calling cues in the comfort of the classroom, using our calling station, existing prompt books, and production videos.

  • Opportunities to manage MainStage productions, as well as student, dance and opera productions.

Business Theatre Experiential Learning Opportunities

Whenever you have a live event that involves talent, lighting, scenery, properties, or any stage business at all –  you need stage managers to make sure everything runs smoothly. All forms of engagement require managers. Business theatre, otherwise known as ‘industrials’ or ‘corporate theatre’ is no different, and offers additional avenues for rewarding careers. Michigan State BFA in Stage Management students are exposed to these industry careers and may assist in corporate event stage management and other high-profile arts and business events.
Students wearing headsets outside at night with a city in the background
Stage Management students working as Assistant Deck Managers for a Brand Launch Event on Pier 26 in New York City

Brand Launch Event on Pier 26 in NYC Hype Video

Students at the Broadway Stage Management Symposium
Students attending the Broadway Stage Managers Symposium in NYC
Empty Office Space Being Set Up for a Business Theatre Event
Aol. launch event Assistant Stage Managed by a Theatre Spartan

Professional Partnerships

Michigan State University’s Department of Theatre has a robust partnership with Williamston Theatre, a local professional Equity theatre. BFA in Stage Management students working with Williamston Theatre may choose to join the Actor’s Equity Association Equity Membership Candidacy Program.

Degree Requirements

University Requirements

The University requirements for bachelor’s degrees are described in the Undergraduate Education section of this catalog; 120 credits, including general elective credits, are required for the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Theatre. The University’s Tier II writing requirement for the Theatre major is met by completing THR 492.

College of Arts & Letters Requirements

  • At least 30 credits in courses at the 300 level and above.
  • 3 credits of experiential learning (can be fulfilled by theatre practicums)
  • A student enrolled in the BFA in Theatre may earn a maximum of 70 credits in THR and DAN courses.

Department Requirements

Complete 60 credits from the following courses:

A minimum grade point of 2.00 in each course is required (27 credits)

*The completion of Theatre 492 satisfies the department’s capstone course requirement.

All of the following courses (9 credits)

Three of the following courses (9 credits):

Advising

For an appointment to discuss the BFA in Stage Management, please contact:

Amy Lampe
542 Auditorium Rd
Department of Theatre
East Lansing, MI 48824
(517) 355-6691 or lampeamy@msu.edu

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