Naropa University

Program Information

Degree Offered

MFA Theater: Contemporary Performance

Format: Campus

Program Description:

The MFA Theater: Contemporary Performance is the first graduate training program that integrates contemporary physical theater, Viewpoints theory and practice, and traditional contemplative practices. This 48-credit degree program is designed to train professional performers, creators, and facilitators of performance. Students are expected to work in a technically and aesthetically extended physical, vocal, and emotional range; to create original work; and to work with the traditional play form and under direction. Considerable production work, in a variety of scales and with particular emphasis on political and social relevance, is ongoing, especially in the second year. The creation and cultivation of ensemble is at the core of the Contemporary Performance pedagogy in both training and production work. The program strives to support careers that integrate teaching and service with professional performance, directing, and creation of new performance aesthetics.

The MFA in Theater: Contemporary Performance offers an integrated curriculum that includes the psychophysical acting work of Jerzy Grotowski; Viewpoints as performance technique and directing/choreographic method; vocal work, integrating Roy Hart, extended vocal technique, traditional speech, and bel canto approaches; somatic physical techniques and contemporary dance/movement forms; contemplative arts and meditation training; techniques of generating text through ensemble playwriting and self-scripting.

Accreditation:

Naropa University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

# of Credits Required:

48

Tuition & Financial Aid

Cost Per Credit Hour:

810.00 USD

Financial Aid Offered: Yes

Classification: Other Specialized Institutions

Institution Sector: Private not-for-profit

Locale: Small City

Size & Settings: 1,000 - 4,999