LMU Theatre Arts Program Ranked No. 22 by Princeton Review

Loyola Marymount University has been named one of the nation's top destinations for aspiring theater artists, earning the No. 22 spot on The Princeton Review's list of Best College Theater programs. Based on student assessments of campus theater experiences, the ranking recognizes programs that excel in artistic training, faculty mentorship, production opportunities, and professional preparation.

"At LMU, theater is a laboratory for exploring the human experience, for both students and audiences," says Bryant Keith Alexander, dean of the College of Communication and Fine Arts. "Our students learn from faculty who are active professionals, create work across disciplines, and engage directly with the artistic life of Los Angeles and beyond. Consistently asking audiences to negotiate the medium and the message of critical artistic practice."

For LMU Theatre Arts, the distinction affirms what students, alumni, and audiences have long known: theatre at LMU is both a rigorous artistic practice and a vibrant community of creators, scholars, and professionals. Located in the heart of one of the world's leading entertainment capitals, LMU Theatre Arts offers students close mentorship from accomplished faculty, hands-on production experience, and direct access to the creative industries that shape contemporary performance.

LMU students learn from faculty who are actively shaping the theatre industry. Among them is Assistant Professor David Davila, an award-winning playwright, composer, and director who recently earned top honors at the Atlanta Opera's prestigious 96-Hour Opera Project for his original opera. His professional accomplishments bring current industry practices and creative innovation directly into the classroom. Students also learn from internationally recognized costume designer Leon Wiebers, who recently brought his expertise in identity-driven visual storytelling to a globally visible collaboration with physician and LGBTQ+ advocate Dr. Nasser Mohamed, creating a custom garment worn during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The department's professional reach extends further through Katharine Noon, artistic director of The Ghost Road Company, whose acclaimed independent theater ensemble gives students firsthand exposure to innovative performance-making and artistic entrepreneurship. Together, these faculty exemplify the department's commitment to active professional practice, bringing current industry experience, creative leadership, and meaningful connections from Los Angeles and international theatre communities directly to LMU students.

LMU's commitment to professional preparation culminates each year in its Senior Showcase, an event that introduces graduating actors to industry professionals. The showcase serves as a launching pad for emerging talent and reflects the program's strong track record of alumni success across stage and screen. LMU Theatre Arts graduates include acclaimed actor Linda Cardellini '97, creator, writer, and producer Gloria Calderón Kellett '97, actor and educator Desean Terry '00, actor Chris Sullivan '02, television writer and producer Amber White '01, and rising screen actor Emily Bader. Together, these distinguished alumni demonstrate the breadth of careers LMU graduates pursue.

Another opportunity for students to develop professionally - a hallmark of the program - is Shakespeare on the Bluff, LMU's beloved free summer theater festival. The production will celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2027, marking a decade of accessible performances under the stars at LMU's Drollinger Family Stage. Under the artistic leadership of Professor Kevin Wetmore, Shakespeare on the Bluff has become both a training ground for students and a cherished event that invites diverse communities into the life of the LMU campus.

"If you watch theatre in Los Angeles, chances are you have seen the work by one of our many alumni, faculty, and staff, all of whom are active industry professionals," says Arnab Banerji, chair of theatre, "But what sets us apart is our commitment to the education of the whole person, and the way our theatre integrates social justice work. We foster not just artists but artists who stand up for what's right and lead social change from the front."