No, the School of Dramatic Art (SoDA) is not closing. The service unit, the University Players (UP), within the academic unit has ceased operations and is not mandatory for the operation of the school's programming to continue.
University Players, a service unit that has complemented the School’s academic programs, faced financial challenges as salaries and operating costs consistently outpaced the revenue generated by performances by more than $1 million per year. It is simply not financially viable. These necessary realignments allow the University to address financial challenges and prioritize spending on our academic programs, such as those delivered by faculty members in the School of Dramatic Art. Faculty in the School will continue to pursue vibrant and robust programming that prioritizes experiential learning for current and future students.
No, the cessation of University Players will not affect your ability to graduate. We are committed to ensuring that all students continue to receive the necessary credits and experiential learning opportunities required for graduation. Alternative programming and updated course offerings will be provided to meet these needs.
Faculty within the School of Dramatic Art are actively developing new programming and updating course offerings for the 2024/2025 academic year to ensure that you continue to have meaningful experiential learning opportunities. Interdisciplinary collaborations and new initiatives within the university and the broader theatre community will enhance your educational experience. Enhanced Works-in-Progress style performances with audiences from the public will take place in the Hatch Studio Theatre. Students will continue to have access to costumes, props, set pieces, lighting, and sound, and will receive necessary credits, including DRAM 4530 and DRAM 3500.
We are committed to exploring and developing alternative opportunities within our programming to ensure you still have meaningful avenues for experiential learning. This includes changes to programming, interdisciplinary collaborations, and new initiatives within the university and the broader theatre community. We are confident that these opportunities will provide the necessary experiential learning experiences for all students. For instance, enhanced Works-in-Progress style performances and other performance and production opportunities are being investigated.
Yes, we are updating our course offerings for the 2024/2025 academic year to include additional courses that will support your academic progress and experiential learning. These updates are part of our commitment to ensure that your educational experience remains robust and comprehensive.
If you have any concerns about your academic progress or graduation, please reach out to your academic advisor or the School of Dramatic Art administration. We are here to support you and provide the necessary guidance to ensure your academic success.
For further information or if you have any questions, please contact:
Email: drama@uwindsor.ca
Phone: 519-253-3000 ext. 2804