Performance Opportunities

Students interested in music theatre and opera performance can take advantage of a number of performance opportunities on campus.

International Performance and Partnerships

Carthage music theatre students travel the world, to study and to perform. Whether it’s studying the roots of theatre and music in Greece, singing in Spain, performing a new work at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, or sharing music theatre performance techniques in China, Carthage students are able to explore global perspectives while developing their performance skills.

The Music Theatre and Opera Program sponsors four musicals annually, including a fall workshop musical, a J-Term musical, and a main stage musical in the Wartburg Theatre. Student-directed musicals are presented in February. The program also presents two operas annually, including a J-Term opera production and a spring chamber opera.

Students in music theatre and opera often collaborate; it is not unusual for music theatre students to be seen in the opera and for opera students to perform roles in the musical. This collaboration is a benefit to both the strength of the productions and to student development.

The Music Department also sponsors several solo and scene recitals as opportunities for students to develop performance skills. Students are encouraged to participate in Theatre Department productions, including four main stage productions, two studio productions, and two fully supported dance shows.

In addition to the opportunities listed above, students have opportunities to take on leadership roles in our acclaimed choral ensembles. Carthage’s music service fraternity, Lambda Kappa, presents frequent recitals, and students interested in improvisation can join the Merely Players improvisational comedy troupe.