Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance

Overview

Focused. Intensive. Career-driven.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Performance is a conservatory-style degree that offers rigorous, hands-on training for students pursuing careers in acting and musical theatre. With small class sizes, individualized mentorship and a curriculum grounded in professional practice, the program prepares students to step into the industry with confidence, versatility and craft.

Students pursue one of two specializations—Acting or Musical Theatre—each offering focused, in-depth training tailored to their chosen path.

Acting

The Acting specialization builds a deep foundation in performance technique through intensive training in voice, movement and acting for stage and screen. Students refine their skills in character development, scene study, stage combat, dialects and audition preparation—supported by close mentorship from working professionals. Courses emphasize creative ownership and collaboration, empowering students to build a sustainable artistic practice.

Training includes:

  • Realism, Shakespeare, period styles and contemporary performance
  • Voice and dialect work, including Linklater and voice-over
  • Acting for the camera
  • Somatic movement, Movement for the Actor, and stage combat
  • Rotating topics in performance technique and professional development

Graduates with a BFA in Theatre Performance: Acting are prepared to enter the professional performing arts industry with advanced technical skills, creative versatility, and the ability to contribute meaningfully as performers, collaborators, and emerging artistic leaders.

See full details in the UF Undergraduate Catalog.

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Musical Theatre

The Musical Theatre specialization fuses acting, singing and dance into one of the most challenging and rewarding training paths in the performing arts. In collaboration with the UF School of Music and School of Theatre and Dance faculty, students train as versatile “triple threat” performers prepared to compete professionally on stage and screen.

Only 4–5 students are selected annually into this highly competitive program, ensuring individualized attention, coaching, and performance opportunities. Students participate in realized productions, audition training and an industry-facing Senior Showcase in New York City, connecting them with agents, managers and casting professionals.

Training includes:

  • Studio classes in acting, voice and multiple dance styles
  • Musical theatre repertoire and vocal coaching
  • Cross-disciplinary performance labs and workshops
  • Access to guest artists, choreographers and directors

UF Musical Theatre alumni have gone on to perform on Broadway, Off-Broadway, national tours, regional theatre, film and television.

See full details in the UF Undergraduate Catalog.

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