Student Life

At SIUE Theater & Dance, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Our department fosters a vibrant, collaborative community where students develop artistic skills, leadership experience, and lifelong connections through a variety of organizations, productions, and professional opportunities.

Student Organizations

Our active student groups provide a creative home for majors and minors to connect, create, and lead:

• University Dance Organization (UDO): A student-led group supporting dancers through workshops, outreach, and performance opportunities.

• Student Experimental Theater Organization (SETO): Dedicated to producing new and experimental works, providing students hands-on experience in directing, performing, and producing.

• United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT) – SIUE Chapter: A professional student organization for those interested in design, technical production, and stage management.

These organizations encourage collaboration, creativity, and innovation—while helping students develop networks and gain experience organizing productions, events, and fundraisers.

Experiential Learning & Travel

The Department of Theater and Dance is deeply committed to experiential learning. Each year, students have the opportunity to engage in regional and national conferences that connect them with industry professionals and peers from across the country.

• Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF): Theater students present their work, compete in performance and design categories, and participate in workshops and masterclasses led by industry professionals.

• Theater Education Conference: Theater Education majors attend professional workshops, panels, and training sessions that enhance teaching practice and strengthen connections within the theater education community.

• American College Dance Association (ACDA) Conference: Dance students perform, take master classes, and receive feedback from nationally recognized artists and adjudicators in a week-long immersion of creative exchange.

• USITT Annual Conference: Design and technical theater students experience hands-on workshops, industry showcases, and professional networking at the nation’s largest event for theater technology and design.

Through these conferences and events, students gain practical experience, professional insight, and inspiration that directly supports their artistic and academic growth.