Fellows in The John Wells Directing Program study classical approaches to theatre, and explore the intersection between performance and technology. In addition to working with canonical and contemporary plays, John Wells Fellows work closely with faculty and students in the Dramatic Writing Option to develop new works for the stage.

Through the Visiting Artist Program, John Wells Fellows receive critical feedback from industry leaders on their class and production work. Fellows spend one semester of the third year off-campus working with a professional mentor in the field.

John Wells Fellows undertake a rigorous directing schedule, including four productions in years one and two and a major thesis in their third year. Additionally, students also direct original work for television, which is filmed at the WQED television studios in Pittsburgh.

In addition all John Wells Fellows have the opportunities to participate in the following:

DANCE/LIGHT

Dance/Light is a performance opportunity for students across all disciplines to collaborate in the creation of original dance and movement pieces.

PLAYGROUND

A Festival of Independent Student Work: Playground is the annual School of Drama three-day performance festival showcasing independent, student-produced work across multiple disciplines.

VISITING ARTISTS PROGRAM

The Visiting Artists Program brings distinguished national and international guests on to campus to work with students across all disciplines.

SHOWCASE

The School of Drama Showcase presentations in Pittsburgh, New York, and Los Angeles are designed to give all graduating students from all disciplines the opportunity to meet with and present work to leading arts and entertainment professionals.