UVA Drama Department

The University of Virginia Department of Drama provides undergraduate and graduate degrees in Drama. We offer a B.A. in Drama and M.F.A.s in Acting, Costume Design & Technology, Lighting Design, and Scenic Design & Technical Production.  In addition to the course work, students participate in our mainstage shows and dance concerts both onstage and behind the scenes learning a broad range of skills. 

Drama Students at UVA have the opportunity to pursue their degrees in a state-of-the-art theatre complex, which includes the 520-seat Culbreth Theatre with proscenium stage, the flexible 160 to 200-seat Helms Theatre and, the brand-new 300-seat Ruth Caplin Theatre, a thrust theatre.

The Drama Building also houses classrooms with state-of-the-art technology, studio space, costume and scene shops.  This impressive complex of classrooms, workshops, studios and theatres is part of The Betsy and John Casteen Arts Grounds, where students studying a wide range arts disciplines come together in one of the University’s most vibrant and dynamic areas.

Our mission is to prepare undergraduate and graduate students to work in today’s theatre through providing excellent training and meaningful interaction with resident faculty and guest artists and fostering creative collaboration in course work and productions. Because our work is grounded in the idea that the arts are a vital component of society, we encourage artists and audiences to look to theatre as a means to engage, question, and seek truth.