Theatre Arts major and minor
Interested in a career bringing stories to life? At Simpson, our Theatre Arts program immerses you in the environment of a professional theatre program, whether you’re on stage, backstage, or anywhere in between. Simpson Productions presents five plays each year, providing students with meaningful opportunities to develop their craft while creating high-quality experiences for performers and audiences.
Learning goes beyond the classroom. You’ll work closely with faculty while gaining hands-on experience in acting, directing, producing, technical theatre, writing, stage management, and more. Through courses, productions, and projects, you’ll develop valuable skills in public speaking, collaboration, problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication. You’ll also be encouraged to take creative risks, challenge yourself, and discover new possibilities.
Whether you pursue a career in theatre, teaching, or another field, the Theatre Arts program provides a strong foundation for success. You’ll graduate as an engaged, creative leader with transferable skills and experiences that prepare you to make an impact—on stage and beyond.
Why Simpson College for Theatre Arts?
What Will I Learn?
You’ll develop practical skills in acting, directing, producing, technical theatre, writing, and stage management. Through courses and productions, you’ll strengthen your communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills. You’ll also build confidence, take creative risks, and develop adaptable leadership skills that prepare you for careers on stage and beyond.
Earn a Teacher Endorsement
By obtaining a Theatre Arts major and a Secondary Education minor, you will have a Speech Communication/Theatre endorsement to teach students in grades 5-12.
Scholarships Available For Theatre Students
Scholarships are awarded to students who show potential in theatre production’s performance, technical, or both aspects. And you don’t have to be a theatre major to receive one. Find out how to apply and when auditions are scheduled.
Career Ready
Our graduates are prepared to launch successful careers and make an immediate impact in the workforce. Here are a few examples of where Simpson alumni are building their careers:
- Climb Theatre
- Des Moines Performing Arts
- Des Moines Public Schools
- Des Moines Symphony
- Iowa Public Television
- Theatre L’Homme Dieu
This Is What Success Looks Like
I love the idea of helping students find their calling in life.
Morgan King '20
Theatre arts major Morgan King ’20 serves as the Drama Director for Des Moines Public Schools, combining her love of theatre and education
Read this StoryOne Lecture Can Change a Career
After listening to [professional costume designer] Cathy Parrott talk about her career, I was ready to take the plunge into the theatre world and costume design, specifically.
Stacey Olson '20
Stacey Olson ’20 discovered her passion for the theatre following a guest lecture from a professional costume designer during her sophomore year at Simpson College
Read this StoryNeed assistance? Contact us!
- ann.woldt@simpson.edu
- 515-961-1327
- Blank Performing Arts Center
- Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Meet Our Faculty
Caroline Frias
- Costume Designer and Shop Supervisor
Rick Goetz
- Lighting and Sound Director
Natalie Hining '13
- Technical Director/Scene Designer
Nancy Kirkendall '88
- Department Secretary
Jennifer Ross Nostrala '85
- Simpson Productions Producer
- Professor of Theatre Arts
Ann Woldt
- Associate Professor Theatre Arts
- Chair Theatre Arts
Kara Raphaeli
- Director of Women and Gender Studies
- Assistant Professor of Theatre Arts
