Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Department of Theatre located?

The Department of Theatre is located in the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, at the corner of Stadium Drive and Rte 193. The office is in the back of the building, just past the Laboratory Theatre, on the second floor. Walk through the double glass doors and to the left in suite 2800. Directions and Parking

How can I get information about the Department of Theatre?

The Department of Theatre website is a great resource to understand our program. Take a look around! You can request a brochure here. You can also contact us with any specific questions.

Do you have a musical theatre program?

No, we don’t offer a musical theatre major. But, students are able to focus on musical theatre in the Department by taking the offered musical theatre classes, and participating in our main stage musicals. There is also the option to minor in Voice through the School of Music’s program.

How do I schedule a tour for the University of Maryland Department of Theatre?

Please email thetinfo@umd.edu with your desired dates and times.

How do I declare my major as Theatre? Are there auditions?

If you’re applying to the University of Maryland, simply indicate that your desired major will be Theatre. If you’re already a student at Maryland, follow these directions on how to declare your major.

Does the Department of Theatre offer a minor? Can I double major?

The Department of Theatre does not offer a minor. You can double major, but this requires the permission of each department and the College(s). It is very time consuming; please take a look at the course requirements.

Can I audition for a production if I’m not a Theatre major? When are the auditions? Can freshmen audition?

Main-Season auditions are open to all UMD students. They held the semester prior to the production. Fall shows are cast in March; Spring shows are cast in October. Freshmen can audition for Spring shows in fall of their Freshman year.

How do I find out about auditions or events in the Theatre Department?

Check the Call Board in the Department of Theatre for notices, cast lists, etc.

Can I do tech work for a Theatre production?

Yes, any UMD student may work on a Theatre production and be granted THET 479 credit. To do so, check with the Production Coordinator (301.405.1623 - Room 1733) to find out what positions are available. You will sign a work contract with a supervisor before gaining a permission stamp to register from the Reception Office. Don’t forget to register - retroactive registrations are no longer permitted.

If I am currently a University of Maryland student and I want to take a theatre course, how can I do that?

You need to wait until the first day of classes. If there are any seats free, you can go to the class and ask for the professor’s permission to take the class. If you gain permission, go to the Theatre Reception Office for an electronic stamp of permission to register.

If I have information that I think that the students would like to know, how do I submit that to the Department of Theatre?

There is a departmental weekly e-newsletter that goes out every Friday. You can submit items for our e-newsletter here: Newsletter Form.

Can I donate items to the Costume Shop or the Properties Shop?

Please get in contact with the Costume Shop at 301.405.6689 or the Props Shop at 301.405.2535.

Can I reserve the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center spaces?

Please call the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center Scheduling Office at 301.405.8176.

Can I reserve the rehearsal rooms?

Please contact Cary Gillett, the production coordinator, after reading the Studio Use Guidelines.

How can I get tickets to Department of Theatre productions?

Call the Ticket Office at 301.ARTS (2787) or visit the Clarice Smith Center website.

Can I take acting lessons in the Theatre Department? Where do you suggest I look?

During the Fall and Spring semesters, courses are restricted to Theatre Majors - but during the Summer our courses are offered through the Office of Extended Studies. When acting courses are offered in Summer-term, anyone may register for them.  Many regional theatres offer acting lessons, usually in the evening or weekend. Check the websites listed on the Regional Riches page.

Can my son/daughter participate in a summer theatre camp?

The Department of Theatre does not sponsor these kinds of programs. They are often offered by the Arts and Learning Center at the Stamp Student Union or the Shakespeare Camp sponsored by the Center for Renaissance and Baroque Studies or camps sponsored by PG County Department of Parks and Recreation located in this building.

Can my son /daughter do service work or an internship for high school credit within the Department of Theatre?

We are not set up to handle this kind of situation at this time.