The Specialization in Theatre Performance (TPER) offers a strong and challenging

Education that aims at training performers who can adapt to the many shapes that theatre and live performance can take today.

Students in the program are trained to become both actors and creators who can contribute to an artistic production on several levels. The educational goal is to provide the students with a broad base in all aspects of theatre making during the first year of their studies. This is followed by a series of highly specialized performance classes taught by an outstanding group of teachers1, guest artists2, and guest directors3.

The Specialization in Theatre Performance (TPER) aims at training a breed of stage performer who will be at ease with multiple theatrical styles. The dedicated student will have gained profound knowledge of theatre which can be applied directly to the stage or serve as an excellent basis for advanced studies at the graduate level or in specialized schools. The program strives to educate strong artists and versatile collaborators who are ready to adapt to the changing demands in the performing arts. Many of our graduates find acting opportunities in Montreal's vibrant theatre scene while others seek out graduate education in Canada, the U.S. or abroad.

First Year

During the first year students from all areas are working together in the core curriculum including the acting classes, a vocabulary is built that serves as a basis for collaborative projects and productions in the following years.

Performance students are asked to work on extracurricular projects such as chorus, movement training and the annual cabaret in order to form a tight ensemble. Work on projects outside of the school is not encouraged during the first year.

Second Year

In the second year the students move on to the three hundred level courses, a number of specialty classes, such as Elizabethan Text as well as advanced training in Movement, Voice and Speech, and Character and Text. The students can also audition for faculty directed productions and participate in the student play festival (SIPA) and in directing classes. Directors and plays are carefully chosen by the faculty to compliment the students' education.

Third and Forth Year

Third and forth year students take classes in advanced technique such as Chinese Opera and Stage Combat, Movement and Acting Styles. The advanced students participate actively in all productions, prepare for graduate auditions, seek outside work and often take on research positions and teaching assistantships.

Participation in summer internships and exchange programs is encouraged for all students. In 2009 we are bringing twelve of our students to our sister institution in Beijing, China.

TPER Program Requirements

The Specialization in Performance for the Theatre is a 90-credit* undergraduate program normally completed over three academic years. These 90 credits fall into four categories: Core Courses, Program Requisites, Fine Arts Electives and Free Electives. Please note that while most of the Core Courses are normally done in the first year of study, Program Requisites, Fine Arts Electives and Free Electives can be mixed throughout the final two years.

* Some applicants (mature students, out-of-province students, those transferring from other universities, etc.) may be required to complete more than 90 credits. Most may receive transfer credits to offset this difference. Please refer to the admissions regulations for complete information.