Bachelor of Arts vs. Bachelor of Fine Arts

There are two tracks in the theatre major to which students can apply:

1. Bachelor of Arts, BA (does not require an audition/portfolio)

2. Bachelor of Fine Arts, BFA (requires an audition/portfolio review as part of the application review)

*If you do not initially apply to the BFA as an incoming student, you will have the opportunity to audition during your freshman year.*

Portfolios Reviews and Auditions will be held in person on the following dates:

• Saturday, November 15, 2025

• Saturday, January 24, 2026

Audition Requirements for the BFA Theatre Performance Program:

• Prepare two monologues. The monologues should be contrasting styles, and each monologue should be about one minute long, for a combined time of two minutes total.

• Provide two copies of your theatre resume.

• Provide two copies of your headshot or a recent photograph.

Portfolio Review/Interview Requirements for the BFA programs in Directing,  Stage Management, Technical Theatre, Theatre Design:

• Prepare a four-minute portfolio presentation. Your portfolio can include any relevant paperwork, photos, renderings, or production books you have from previous shows.

• Provide two copies of your theatre resume.

Play Review Requirements for the BFA Playwrighting program:

• Email a PDF of an original 10-page one-act play OR a 10-page writing sample from an original full-length play to aotoole@salemstate.edu  one week prior to your scheduled Review date. Our faculty will read your playwrighting submission prior to the review, and they will discuss it with you at your review. The playwrighting sample must demonstrate an ability to employ effective structure, develop dramatic characters, utilize effective language, and convey dramatic action.

• Please bring two copies of your theatre resume.

Virtual Auditions and Portfolio Review Option:

• Virtual Audition and Portfolio Review timeslots for the BFA Theatre program are available on November 15 and January 24 by arrangement for out-of-state applicants and special circumstances. Please contact aotoole@salemstate.edu  to request a virtual audition or portfolio review. 

Please contact Ashley Preston O'Toole at aotoole@salemstate.edu or 978-542-4312 to schedule your BFA Audition or Portfolio Review.  

Complimentary tickets are available to prospective students  and their families for any Theatre Department production.  To inquire about tickets for upcoming performances or to schedule a tour of the Sophia Gordon Center for Creative and Performing Arts, please email Ashley Preston O’Toole at aotoole@salemstate.edu.