Dominican University Students Express Concern over Theatre Program

Photo Credit to Dominican’s Theatre Website

Many students are feeling worried about the future of the theatre arts program but want to find more ways to get more students involved.   

As of fall 2024, seven undergraduates are majoring in theatre arts while three are minoring in the subject. 

Junior  Taylor Hart, who is majoring in communications with a minor in  theatre,  believes participating in different plays and taking  theatre courses can help students learn more about the program. 

“The program is not doing very well, and it’s because we have too few majors and minors,” he explained.  “It’s not as popular as the sports teams, so it doesn’t get much attention.  [I talk to people] about my experiences with theatre classes and what I’ve learned and gained from them.” 

Senior  Rachel Esser  loves  participating in theatre  because it “can help with time management and organization” as well as “boost people’s confidence.” 

“It is a really supportive environment [and] I’ve made some great friends through [it],” she says.  “You spend a lot of time with people in rehearsals so it’s a good way to get to know people.  The skills you get from performing, like stage presence and vocal technique, can translate into other skills like presenting or discussing confidently. Being in theatre whether on stage or tech can also help with time management and organization.” 

Esser, who is vice president of  Curtain Call, said she  thinks  the  theatre  club  is “a great way to do theatre-related [activities] without having to find time in class schedules.” 

“It’s always good to try something new, have a creative outlet, and have something that’s just for fun,” she said. “Everyone can be involved, not just theatre majors or minors. All are welcome also to audition for shows, be involved backstage on the tech side of things, and register for the intro level classes.” 

Khristian Summerall, a junior majoring in theatre, said students, who are studying theatre, will gain many useful  skills to help them with their future careers. 

“It can inspire new interests and deepen an appreciation for the arts,” she said. “Many people assume theatre majors are limited to acting careers, but they actually help students build interpersonal skills [and] fosters new connections.”  

Summerall  appreciates the theatre program as she loves “working with everyone” she’s met and “the sense of [the] community.” 

“Being involved in theatre helps people become more well-rounded individuals,” she said.  “They develop strong communication [and] teamwork, which are valuable in many aspects of life.” 

Last year, Dominican removed photo-cinema, which was offered as both a major and minor, and the art history minor.  Additionally, music was offered as a major, but has now been offered as a minor only. 

Krista Hansen, chair and professor of the theatre arts program, and Chad Rohman, dean of Rosary College of Arts and Sciences,  declined to comment.