By telling the stories of others through plays, musicals and operas, theater artists will learn more about their own stories, ethics, values and dreams.
Theater at Bethel College is as distinct as the institution. Audition for a show or sign up for a class. You can participate as a Communication Arts major, a Theater minor, or as someone who is interested in trying your hand at the performing arts. Opportunities are open to all students interested in being on stage and/or behind the scenes. As part of a liberal arts education, theater fills an important role on campus and in the community by offering a unique perspective into the human experience.
The theater department has a celebrated history and is a significant part of the Bethel College story. In a typical year, the department presents two mainstage productions, including one play and one musical or opera. In addition, the Theater Direction and Production course provides opportunities for students to perform in smaller-scale productions directed by their peers. You will find professional and caring faculty who will encourage you to stretch yourself as a performer and a compassionate member of society, and work with you to ensure the highest quality productions.
Current season
Fall Festival play: The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) [revised], written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield; an irreverent, fast-paced romp through all 37 of the Bard's comedies, histories and tragedies, in 97 minutes.
Performances: Thursday, Sept. 30, 7:30 p.m. (invited dress rehearsal); Friday, Oct. 1, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 2, 3:30 p.m.; Sunday, Oct. 3, 2 p.m.; Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
Thursday evening preview and Saturday matinee cast:
Daniel – Charlotte Ehrmann
Jess – Emily Guldner
Adam – Emil Benavides
Friday evening and Sunday matinee cast:
Daniel – Tristan England
Jess – Hayden Honomichl
Adam – Nathaniel Schmucker
Buy tickets online below; at Thresher Shop in Schultz Student Center during regular business hours, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (call 316-284-5205 for credit card orders only); or at the Luyken Fine Arts Center ticket window starting 1 hour before showtime and subject to availability. Tickets are $11.50 for adults; $9.50 for non-Bethel students and adults 65 and older; $8.50 for children ages 3-12; and $3.50 for Bethel students. Prospective students: Check with the Office of Admissions about an activities pass if you don’t already have one.
COVID-19 protocols will be observed: limited seating; physical distancing enforced between non-family groups; face coverings must be worn at all times.
Spring musical (March 2022): Spamalot, a musical comedy adapted from the 1975 film Monty Python and the Holy Grail
Performances: Thursday, March 24, Friday, March 25, Saturday, March 26, all at 7:30 p.m.; Krehbiel Auditorium in Luyken Fine Arts Center
Coursework
Bethel offers the following:
COA 104/304 Theater Practicum
COA 201 Living in Performance
COA 210 Introduction to Theater
COA 333 Prison Theater Project
COA 335 Styles of Acting
COA 413 Theater Production and Direction
Bethel also offers speech and theater teacher licensure.
Contact
For more information on Bethel’s theater program, contact Karen Robu, assistant professor of communication arts and director of theater.