Abstract
This article considers the place of theatre as a recognized academic discipline and explores pathways for its future development. It identifies two main options for theatre programs: the liberal arts approach, emphasizing broad education, historical-literary grounding, and expressive opportunities; and the professional approach, which includes secondary education, higher education preparation, and professional performance training. The discussion highlights the importance of improving secondary theatre education, since university programs rely on strong foundations at that level. It also argues that university theatre should embrace professional standards by staffing programs with active practitioners, integrating faculty performances, and fostering repertory-style models. Additional concerns include reclaiming leadership in dramatic literature and scholarship, which risk being ceded to other disciplines. The article concludes that theatre education must acknowledge and demonstrate its professionalism to secure credibility and a lasting role within the academic community.
Recommended Citation
Jorns, David L.
(1987)
"Theatre in Its Own Right,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 61, Article 14.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol61/iss1/14
