Academics
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In the department of theater, we develop scholars, artists, and audiences of the performing arts by integrating traditional undergraduate coursework with experiential learning in productions and internships. Guided by faculty who work as theater artists and scholars, students are expected to develop skills in multiple areas and techniques, to connect theoretical and historical understanding with artistic expression, and to realize their own creative vision. Graduates of the department have gone on to graduate training in theater at Northwestern University, UCLA, Julliard, and Boston University, and many have found work as professional actors, designers, and directors in Chicago, New York City, and Los Angeles.
Theater students at Lake Forest College have unparalleled access to world-class theater in the city of Chicago. Courses offered in the department take regular field trips to Steppenwolf, the Goodman, and Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, as well as to many other smaller but no less well-respected venues. Field trips allow students to see productions of the plays and techniques being discussed in the classroom. Tickets and transportation for most field trips are arranged by the College, and the costs are shared by the Center for Chicago Programs, the Theater Department, and student lab fees for theater courses. In addition to field trips, theater students at Lake Forest can pursue internships for credit with professional theater companies in the greater Chicago area.
Theater students at Lake Forest College have unparalleled access
to world-class theater
in the city of Chicago.
On campus, the Lake Forest College theater department supports a lively production season. Each year the department stages two mainstage productions (one each semester), directed and designed by faculty or guest artists, as well a black-box festival of student-generated pieces. All aspects of production – from performing to designing to submitting to the playwriting festival – are open to Lake Forest College students of any major. The small student body at Lake Forest College and our commitment to combining theater experiences with a liberal arts education translate to plenty of hands-on production experience for all students, regardless of their year in school. Students advise the faculty on the selection of the mainstage shows and on departmental affairs through volunteer and elected committees.
In addition, students can get involved with the Garrick Players, the student theater organization established in 1902. The Garrick Players is the oldest collegiate theater organization in the Midwest, and produces two additional shows each year under the management of their Executive Board working with a faculty advisor. Other student theater groups have included the Poor Players Guild and F.L.A.S.H., an improv troupe.