Theater > Experiential Learning

We at the Theater Department of Lake Forest College believe that making performance requires vision, knowledge, and discipline, and that practicing our art is an ideal model of experiential learning in the context of a liberal arts education. Experiential education occurs through the continuous interconnection of practical and intellectual work.

For most students, their work on theater department productions is their primary avenue to "learning by doing." Each year, our season is chosen with students’ educational needs and their artistic development in mind. In departmental productions, students work with faculty or guests artists as directors, designers, or mentors.

Throughout the rehearsal and performance process, the idea that production is an opportunity for education is emphasized. Since 2008, we have participated in the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF), with regional respondents attending our shows and our students eligible to compete at the regional festival held each January.

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Some advanced students may wish to pursue additional opportunities to "learn by doing," either through internships with Chicago-area theater companies, or through student-initiated creative projects for credit. Internships are coordinated through the College’s Center for Chicago Programs, while creative projects are approved and supervised by the department faculty.

Incoming students who believe that experiential learning through coursework and production experience in theater is appropriate for them are encouraged to apply for Hixon Forester Scholarships. Information on applying is available through the Office of Admissions.

Experiential education
occurs through
the continuous interconnection
of practical and intellectual work.