I love the fall. The season brings a special light to the upper lobby of the Hartke Theatre. It also brings the buzz of students, staff, and faculty working throughout the building. It is an especially joyful noise this year. The department has joined the College of Arts & Sciences and now offers three degree programs: the BA in Drama, the BFA in Musical Theatre, and the BFA in Theatre, Film, and Television. There are more students in the department now than there have been in the past twenty years.  It is an exciting time, and the students are happy. It is my responsibility to ensure that their courses, performances, and other experiences prepare them for the profession and what awaits them after graduation. The students are very talented, and they benefit from the guidance of outstanding theatre professionals. However, my fellow faculty and I know that the department must do all it can to help the students. If you want to contribute to our efforts, please contact me. I will explain how your support will keep Hartke Theatre up to date, safe, and humming with students honing their craft.

Dr. Patrick Tuite

Associate Professor and Chair, Drama Department