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From Our Stage to the World's

Since 1925, The Theatre School has trained world-class artists who hone their craft in rigorous practice and performance settings. Here, your growth takes center stage in each project, scene and set. Build technical knowledge and strengthen your artistry by studying with mentors and working professionals who teach all aspects of theatre. Discover your voice in theatres located on campus and throughout Chicago and gain the confidence and skills to thrive.

Find Your Role

Take Action Beyond the Script

Whether you light up the stage or provide support from behind the scenes, this is your space to shine
Creative Root 
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Student-Driven Programming 
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Undergraduate Conservatory 
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Graduate Conservatory 
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On Stage 
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Our Alumni 
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200+
theatre companies and the film / TV industry in Chicago give you opportunities to build skills, make connections and try out new ideas.
30+
annual productions create opportunities for students to tackle new roles and strengthen their skills in multiple areas.

Your Creative Future Starts Here

Develop your craft in Chicago. Learn from mentors, create in world-class spaces and build connections that take you from DePaul’s campus to the city to the world.
Connection_and_Mentorship_Group_canto_l0_homepage_11-25-2025.pngConnection and Mentorship
Mission_values_environmental_canto_l0_homepage_11052025.pngChicago as a Classroom
Campus_architecture_architectural_canto_l0_homepage_11052025.pngWorld-Class Facilities

A Toolkit for a Creative Life

Your theatre education establishes a versatile foundation for your creativity. You’ll hone your artistry, learn to lead creative teams and bring powerful stories to life.
Take Your Talent to New Places

<div class="ck-content"><p>Access professional opportunities in Chicago's celebrated theatres, or study in another country to apply your skills on the global stage.</p></div>

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Gain Your First Production Credit

<div class="ck-content"><p><meta charset="utf-8" /><span style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Build your resume and your circle of artistic collaborators in our student organizations, which offer opportunities to design, direct or perform.</span></p></div>

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Add Another Layer to Your Art

<div class="ck-content"><p><meta charset="utf-8" /><span style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Our minors in theatre studies and dance can complement your primary academic studies.</span></p></div>

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IN THE LIMELIGHT

Stories from The Theatre School

Get to know the students, faculty and alumni who define our artistic atmosphere and whose work contributes to the advancement of theatre and the entertainment industry.
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Find the answers you need.

Conservatory

What conservatory programs are offered at The Theatre School?

The school offers intensive, conservatory-based training programs at both the undergraduate (BFA) and graduate (MFA) levels. These programs cover disciplines such as Acting, Costume Design, Directing, Lighting Design, Scenic Design, Stage Management and Theatre Technology.

About

What is the learning environment like at The Theatre School?

Students learn through a "learning by doing" philosophy within a rigorous conservatory setting. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, close mentorship from faculty who are working professionals, and collaboration across different disciplines within the theatre arts.


Chicago

How does the Chicago location benefit Theatre School students?

Being located in Chicago, a world-class theatre city, offers students unparalleled opportunities. They gain access to internships, professional connections and exposure to a diverse range of theatrical productions, significantly enhancing their training and career prospects.