Kean University Theatre Conservatory
Learn the skills to turn your passion into your life's work.
Work alongside professional artists, honing your craft and expanding your knowledge. Study masterworks of the past and devise your own. Classes are available in acting techniques, directing, playwriting, dramaturgy, stage management, theatre technology, costume, lighting and set design. Kean theatre students can also work on productions for Premiere Stages, Kean’s resident Equity theatre company. Contact the Department of Theatre at (908) 737-4420 or theatre@kean.edu for more information or to arrange a visit as a student for a day.
A Message from the Chair
The students who choose to study Theatre at Kean University are diverse, passionate, and welcoming. Not only does the Conservatory house various degree programs that build specializations in many different aspects of Theatre, but the student body also creates a dynamic community where difference and individuality are celebrated. Our mainstage performances have high production values, thanks to a dedicated team of faculty and staff who support student artists onstage and behind the scenes. We’re in the business of making dreams come true: turn your talents into your life’s work! I hope you will join us.
~ Professor Rachel Evans
Theatre Conservatory Mission Statement
The Kean University Theatre Conservatory offers students the knowledge, skills, and critical perspectives necessary for building a strong foundation for a lifelong engagement with their art and their world, as well as providing a core educational foundation based on the liberal arts. The conservatory offers BA and BFA degree programs, constructed to make and teach theatre that celebrates the human condition and spirit. Our performance series provides quality, applied experiences through which students can explore and develop their potential as actors, educators, directors, stage managers, designers, technicians, administrators, and playwrights, and develop the skills to pursue work in professional theatre and graduate school or apply skills to a variety of professions both inside and outside the theatre. The study of theatre at Kean is enhanced by a partnership with Premiere Stages, an AEA company in residence, and close proximity to New York, allowing frequent guest artists.
Donating to the Conservatory
Consider donating to support our programs, help maintain our spaces and equipment, contribute to our student scholarship funds or create a new scholarship to sponsor current theatre students. Click the button to make a Theatre Department designated donation through the Kean University Foundation. Aren’t able to contribute financially? Contact the department directly about other ways to support our work like internships and mentorship or donating scripts.
News and Spotlights
Recognized by Backstage as one of New Jersey's top acting programs! Read the article here, and see below for more news about the program.
Kean University Names Rehearsal Space in Honor of Alumna Ellen Arlene Brautigan ’78
Kean's Theatre Program Gives Students a Chance to Do It All
Tori Hiotakis, a graduating senior, got a chance to work on acting, lighting and playwriting during her diverse experience as a theatre student at Kean. She also performed with Broadway icons. Learn more about her story.
Kean Students and Alumni Take the Stage for New Jersey Theatres
Actress Lauren Ridloff Shares Insight on Representation in Kean President’s Distinguished Lecture
Music and Theatre Students Share the Stage with Tony Winner Alex Newell
