Student Experience

A welcoming & vibrant community

The presence of a strong theatre program on campus enriches the cultural life of our entire community. Students find a particularly vital environment in which to enhance their college experience. The culture of our department is fast-paced, welcoming, and dynamic. A creative powerhouse within the university, it offers opportunities to connect with others, stretch your imagination, and increase your capacity for self-expression. Develop vital friendships and lasting memories, too.

Bloomington is a fun and exciting place to spend your college years, offering cultural events, festivals, music, and lots of dining options. Find out what makes our town so special.

Check out Bloomington

Riveting performances—where you play a part

Curious about what takes place backstage, or want to observe the rehearsal process? Life upon the stage—and behind the scenes—is vibrant, thrilling, and rewarding. If you enjoy the intensity of collaborative effort, and of watching shows develop from start to finish, you can become involved in a great variety of ways.

The Lee Norvelle Theatre and Drama Center houses three theatre spaces, hosting scores of performances each year, including student works. All IU students are eligible to audition for these shows, and there are opportunities to work on the technical dimensions of them. Whether you are front of house, on the stage, or working in a technical capacity, your involvement earns applause.

See our performances View audition opportunities Take a virtual tour

Usher—and become an audience member

You can see plays and performances free of charge, simply by signing up as an usher. Take a break from coursework to help others find their seats, and then be transported by stories on stage.

Find out more about ushering

Student Advisory Board

The Student Advisory Board (SAB) serves as a liaison between students and the faculty and staff of the department. It plans and executes various activities and fundraisers throughout the year, including the Theatre Awards Banquet, otherwise known as the Drama Prom.

Learn more about the SAB

Networking across the theatre & dance professions

Theatre and dance professionals professionals don’t work in a vacuum—they connect all across the globe. Our faculty, alumni, and graduate students know the importance of building a web of contacts, and they can help you learn how to do the same.

Your academic advisor is your advocate from start to finish in the major, helping you move ahead to post-college life, too.

Catch up on alumni paths through Stages, the official newsletter of the Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance. The IU College of Arts and Sciences organizes alumni events. Join and use the IU Alumni Association to remain in touch, network directly, follow careers, and let others know where your path takes you.

Learn more about our alumni program

Want more opportunities to perform?

Take advantage of the many other theatres, dance companies, student groups, and more offered on campus and in the Bloomington community. Or, think about joining the University Players, our student-run non-profit theatre organization.

See how to get involved Learn about University Players

Group of men wearing Indiana University apparel

Consider a study abroad program

IU and the College of Arts and Sciences offer many opportunities for students interested in studying in another country. You can choose short-term or long-term experiences that allow you to practice another language and explore different cultures.

College International

College International offers high impact study abroad experiences focused on the College’s liberal arts tradition for our majors and other IU students.

IU Overseas Studies

IU’s Office of Overseas Study promotes study abroad to all IU students by offering programs in a wide range of disciplines.

Student Experience

A welcoming & vibrant community

Riveting performances—where you play a part

Usher—and become an audience member

Student Advisory Board

Networking across the theatre & dance professions

Want more opportunities to perform?

Consider a study abroad program

College International

IU Overseas Studies

Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance social media channels