Gain a deeper understanding of performance art through theatre and music. Build the self-confidence you need to stand on a stage or in front of a podium.
Undergraduate Bachelor of Arts
Major
124
4 Years
Salem
As Willamette’s first Musical Theatre major, Zelda Stein BA’27 is helping shape a brand-new program while training to become a well-rounded performer, storyteller, and collaborator.
From Acting Through Song and vocal ensembles to dance, directing, and behind-the-scenes work in scenery and costumes, Zelda is gaining cross-disciplinary training that meets national standards. Now studying abroad at York St John University in the U.K., they’re already excited to return to Salem for senior-year productions, including musicals, opera, and Shakespeare.
Learn how Willamette graduates are making an impact in music, theatre, dance, and beyond.
Theatre mentorship led to a career in set design for powerful musicians
Tess Falcone used her cross-disciplinary studies to break into the music industry. She now runs the lighting production for crowds up to 90,000 people. She's worked with musicians such as Brian May, Weezer, Ben Folds, The Lumineers, and Maggie Rogers.
A strong theatre network helped contribute to a career on stage.
Jihan Haddad has been able to move from role to role, performing in both big and small venues across the country. She credits a strong community as the basis for her success.
Get to know the professional actors, singers, and dancers who teach at Willamette. They bring a wealth of knowledge, connections, and guidance to the classroom. We also offer a guest artist program that brings an impressive roster of experienced professionals to campus.
Dr. Hannah Penn has a background in opera and recital performance. She has sung over twenty operatic roles with companies like Glimmerglass Opera, Florida Grand Opera, and Portland Opera.
Megan Swanson is an actor, dancer, and member of Actors’ Equity with national and regional experience. She has performed in Camelot, Cabaret, and Cats, working alongside Michael York and Lou Diamond Phillips.
Susan Coromel, Artistic Director and co‑founder of Theatre 33 at Willamette, has performed more than 65 roles in New York and regional stages. A member of Actors’ Equity, she champions new plays.
Embrace a multi-faceted education in music, dance, and theatre. Our program connects the music department and theatre department, allowing students to develop a well-rounded education.
Develop foundational acting skills through movement, voice, and improvisation exercises that foster personal discovery and ensemble cohesion. Explore essential concepts of presence, character embodiment, and collaborative storytelling.
Develop foundational dance techniques specific to musical theatre while exploring the role of movement in performance and storytelling. Study iconic choreographers and styles, and apply movements through practical exercises and stage routines.
Our program requires 46 semester hours to complete the major, with 124 credit hours to complete the degree. Core courses comprise 20 credits, structured electives account for 8 credits, and required courses total 28 credits.
Our Musical Theatre program is open to first-year students, transfer students, and international students. Explore our undergraduate admissions process to get started.
Willamette is committed to supporting Musical Theatre majors with generous merit scholarships and financial aid. All admitted undergraduate applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, starting at $28,000 per year. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, taking into account cumulative GPA and SAT or ACT scores, if provided.
Willamette University