Graduate Programs

MFA Stage Management Concentration

an actor onstage tossing a sheaf of papers in the air

The stage management concentration at The University of Alabama is a production-oriented, three-year intensive that focuses on providing a diversity of management experience to candidates as well as ongoing mentorship and extensive teaching opportunities in an academic environment.

The primary focus of the program is hands-on experience. Each year, students work on two full productions (musicals, straight plays, and experimental work) in our 300-seat theatre. For this aspect of the program, candidates interact with faculty, staff, graduate students, and both faculty and guest directors.  Additionally, candidates work with our dance program and the music department on various productions. Other opportunities to manage within UA are available at different points during the year.

Stage management concentration candidates mentor our undergraduate stage managers in two ways: through directly supervising the undergraduate assistant stage managers and overseeing the undergraduates as they fulfill the role of stage manager on either our main stage or our 149-seat studio theatre. For their coursework, candidates will take graduate classes in technical theatre and design in order to further their knowledge in all areas of production. Candidates must also take classes in arts management and through the communications department in order to complete their degree.

In addition to taking courses at UA, stage management candidates both assist and will teach their own undergraduate theatre classes including stage management classes.

Admission and Financial Support

Admission and assistantships are awarded based upon a portfolio review, interview and acceptance into the University of Alabama Graduate School. The program typically accepts one new MFA candidate in stage management a year.

For more information about the program and admission requirements, read our Application Instructions or contact Matt Davis, Head of Stage Management, at mjdavis9@ua.edu.

Have any questions? Visit our FAQ page.

For more information about the university application, please visit the Graduate School website.

Curriculum

MFA Stage Management Concentration Curriculum