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Theatre Overview

Students interested in acting, technical, and administrative aspects of theatre have many opportunities to explore. The Co-Op Theatre Company produces three Mainstage shows each year at our two professionally-equipped performance venues, Mandell Theater and URBN Center Black Box Theater. Each year, one of these productions is part of the Mandell Professionals in Residence Project, giving our students the chance to work hands-on alongside professional artists. Through this and many smaller theater projects each year, students are afforded the opportunity to learn by serving as performers, stage managers, assistant directors and designers, and as the administrative and marketing team, handling all aspects of the production. Our successful Late Night Series, a weekly open mic night run by students, also provides opportunities for participation in performance or technical leadership. For more information about upcoming productions, please see our full performance calendar page. For a look at the variety of our classwork and mainstage productions, check out our YouTube Channel!

Students can minor in Theatre Performance or Theatre Production through the Westphal College of Media Arts & Design. Learn more about the minor requirements here.

Songs For A New World

Co-Op Theatre Company

Students from all over the University have the opportunity to get a hands-on experience running a theater company at a professional level.

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Essential Project Graphic

Essential Project

Essential is a documentary theater project that explores who and what became essential during the unprecedented moments of 2020. Presented as a 24-episode original series, Essential explores the richness of the human experience in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn More
Late Night Series

Late Night Series

Every Thursday, anyone interested in claiming a five-minute performance slot—for music, comedy, poetry, or monologues—can sign up for the free 8:30 p.m. show.

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THTR Prod

Theatre Production

Theatre Production allows students to work in every area of technical theatre including lighting, sound, props, costumes, scenic carpentry and scenic painting.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get involved in Dance, Music, or Theatre at Drexel?

There are many opportunities to get involved in the performing arts at Drexel. We offer opportunities in dance, music, and theater, but also production, technical, and administrative opportunities as well.

Visit the Contact Directory for more information on specific ensembles or email performingarts@drexel.edu. Your inquiry will be directed to the appropriate ensemble director or you can visit the Performing Arts Office which is located in MacAlister Hall, Suite 2018. Our office staff will be happy to direct you to the appropriate director.

How do I get involved in Theatre at Drexel?

The best way to get involved is to register for the Theater Performance Ensemble THTR 141-001 if you primarily want to perform or THTR 130 Intro to Production Practicum if you are interested in technical theater. You will learn how we do things at Drexel and hear about all of the upcoming events and opportunities. For information on how to register for classes, please visit Drexel Central.

Do I have to be a student in the Westphal College to participate in any of the performing arts ensembles?

No! The Drexel Performing Arts Ensembles are open to all Drexel University students regardless of college or major. There is a mix of audition and non-audition based ensembles. Specific details can be found under each discipline.

Do you offer Performance Scholarships?

Yes, many of the ensembles offer performance scholarships which are available to full-time students from any college or major, not just Performing Arts. Many auditions are held during Admitted Students Days. To find out more about our performance ensembles and how to schedule an audition, please visit Performance Scholarships or contact the corresponding ensemble director as listed in the Contact Directory.

How do I find out about auditions for shows?

Stay informed through a number of ways:

  • Contact Nick Anselmo, nma28@drexel.edu, for information about auditions for shows.
  • Visit the social media pages for the Drexel Players and the Drexel Theatre Program.
  • Check announcements that are posted on the theater call board in the hall outside of the Performing Arts Office in MacAlister Hall, Suite 2018.
  • Sign up to be on the Drexel Players email list at drexelplayers@gmail.com

How do I purchase tickets for a show?

For information about ticket sales for:

  • Drexel-produced shows: Call the box office line at 215.895.2787, or buy tickets through the online Box Office.
  • Guest performances taking place in the Mandell Theater: Check the guest performer’s website for details, or contact the Mandell Theater manager, Caroline Leipf, at 215.895.2528 or csl82@drexel.edu

Theater Partnerships