Gannon University | Program Facts

GU Theatre Facts

Unlike larger programs, Gannon theatre students can get involved both on- and off-stage beginning their freshman year.
Gannon has four main stage and several laboratory theatre productions each year on campus at the Schuster Theatre.
Casting is done solely from the student body with all crew positions, both technical and managerial, held by students.
The theatre department is affiliated with Alpha Psi Omega (National Dramatic Honor Society), The Association for Theatre in Higher Education, Theatre as a Liberal Art (TLA) and the National Association of College Broadcasters.
Those with ties to Gannon’s theatre program have enjoyed national success such as: Michael Morris (HBO’s The Comeback), Shawn Lucas (HBO’s The Sopranos) and Joey Mendicino (MTV’s The 70’s House).

Aside from professional theatre and entertainment, graduates in theatre may also find careers in teaching drama, counseling, law and in public or private recreational programs. Many theatre students also pursue graduate education in theatre and related careers.

Theatre is housed in the Gannon University College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences. Students in the theatre program interact with students and professors in the fields of business, education, advertising, journalism, political science, language and journalism.
Professors in the theatre and communication arts (TCA) programs are dynamic, experienced scholars and practitioners with a passion for teaching. The combined TCA faculty has more than 100 years of real world experience.
The department of theatre and communication arts sponsors trips to New York City and London, as well as tours of theatres in neighboring cities and participation in the American College Theatre Festival Region II.
Gannon’s location in downtown Erie places students near three operating theaters.
Theatre students participate in the preproduction and production process of the technical side of the Schuster Theatre main stage. Lighting, sound design, set construction, scenic painting and graphic design are integral elements for a large scale theatrical program.