BA Theatre Syllabus Structure (3 Years)
The BA Theatre syllabus combines theoretical understanding of drama with intensive practical training. The course focuses on acting, stagecraft, dramatic literature, direction, and live performance to develop well-rounded theatre professionals.
Year 1: Foundation of Theatre Arts
The first year introduces students to the basics of theatre, acting, and dramatic expression.
Semester 1
- Introduction to Theatre: Origin of theatre, forms of drama, and basic terminology.
- Acting Basics: Body movement, facial expressions, stage presence.
- Voice & Speech: Voice modulation, pronunciation, breathing techniques.
- Theatre Games & Improvisation: Creativity building and spontaneity.
Semester 2
- History of Indian Theatre: Folk theatre, classical traditions, modern theatre.
- Western Theatre History: Greek, Roman, Renaissance, and modern theatre.
- Stagecraft Basics: Props, costumes, lighting fundamentals.
- Practical Performance I: Group performance and scene work.
Year 2: Performance & Direction
This year focuses on skill enhancement in acting, script analysis, and stage direction.
Semester 3
- Acting Techniques: Stanislavski, method acting, character building.
- Dramatic Literature: Study of Indian and international plays.
- Stage Design: Set design, lighting design, and costume aesthetics.
- Practical Performance II: Solo and duet performances.
Semester 4
- Direction & Play Production: Blocking, rehearsals, stage coordination.
- Script Writing & Adaptation: Writing plays and adapting texts for stage.
- Makeup & Costume Design: Character makeup and costume planning.
- Theatre Workshop: Live stage production under supervision.
Year 3: Advanced Theatre Practice
The final year emphasizes professional readiness, independent performance, and production work.
Semester 5
- Advanced Acting: Complex character portrayal and emotional depth.
- Theatre & Media: Acting for television, films, and digital platforms.
- Elective Paper: Theatre criticism, puppetry, or folk theatre.
- Major Production I: Full-length play performance.
Semester 6
- Play Direction Project: Direction of a stage production.
- Theatre Management: Event management, budgeting, promotion.
- Internship / Field Work: Work with theatre groups or cultural institutions.
- Viva Voce: Practical examination and portfolio presentation.
Recommended Books for BA Theatre
| Subject |
Book Title |
Author |
| Acting |
An Actor Prepares |
Konstantin Stanislavski |
| Theatre History |
Theatre: A Way of Seeing |
Milton Singer |
| Dramatic Literature |
Poetics |
Aristotle |
| Direction |
Notes on Directing |
Frank Hauser |
Syllabus FAQs
Q1: Is BA Theatre more practical or theoretical?
BA Theatre is highly practical. While theoretical subjects like theatre history and dramatic literature are included, more than 60% of the course focuses on rehearsals, performances, workshops, and live productions.
Q2: Do students perform on stage during the course?
Yes. Stage performance is mandatory every year. Students participate in group plays, solo performances, workshops, and final-year productions, which are evaluated as part of internal and external assessments.
Q3: Is internship compulsory in BA Theatre?
In most universities, yes. The final year includes an internship or fieldwork with theatre groups, drama schools, cultural organizations, or media houses to provide professional exposure.
