The Conservatory welcomes artists of all gender identities and nurtures talent in a diverse, inclusive environment where every voice matters.
At the Conservatory, you will train with working professionals from Broadway, film, and television in a program designed to launch your career. Choose a BFA pathway in acting, theatrical costume design, filmmaking, technical theatre/stage management, interdisciplinary theatre studies, or continue your training with an MFA in screenwriting—and gain hands-on experience every step of the way.
From mainstage productions to our black box theatre, you’ll have countless opportunities to perform, design, and create. Each summer, you’ll also have the chance to work with industry professionals at our immersive stock theatre in Okoboji, Iowa—earning credits and building your résumé before graduation.
The Conservatory welcomes artists of all gender identities. We nurture talent in a diverse, welcoming environment.
Overview
Explore Programs
Our intensive programs offer opportunities for aspiring actors, designers, technicians, stage managers, and screenwriters to build a strong skill set in their respective discipline and to garner extensive practical knowledge on how to navigate the current industry.
In April 2025, the Conservatory presented the world-premiere (in English) of the brand-new musical, Snow White & Me, by acclaimed West End composer-lyricist Pippa Cleary, with book by Philip LaZebnik and Ronald Krushchak. Under the direction of acclaimed Broadway director Scott Schwartz and Broadway veteran and interim Conservatory dean Lisa Brescia, our students not only brought the musical life on stage, but also recorded the original cast album.
Our Mission
Create. ENGAGE. INSPIRE.
The Conservatory for the Performing Arts at Stephens College cultivates these guiding principles within a safe, collaborative, and supportive environment.
Creating a strong community of artist-citizens
Encouraging critical thinking and creative exploration
Instilling an impeccable work ethic through rigorous training
Building skills for industry success
Guiding artists who are agents for social change
Promoting lifelong learning and artistic expression
A SNEAK PEEK AT THE CONSERVATORY
Conservatory students have numerous opportunities to audition and perform at the Macklanburg Playhouse (mainstage), the Warehouse Theatre (black box), and the Okoboji Summer Theatre.
Students have the opportunity to work with A-list guest artists in master classes and Q&A sessions, like Broadway Director Scott Schwartz, Hollywood Screenwriter Philip LaZebnik and West End Composer and Lyricist Pippa Cleary.
At the Okoboji Summer Theatre, students have the opportunity to build their resumes, portfolios, and work alongside industry professionals.
Conservatory students spend at least one summer as members of Okoboji Summer Theatre (OST) company, located in the lakeside resort community of Spirit Lake, Iowa. OST offers an immersive experience in all aspects of theatre.
BFA Musical Theatre and Acting students rehears at Okoboji Summer Theatre.
Filmmaking students learn all aspects of the art and industry — including in two on-campus soundstage studios — so they are making films year-round.
The MFA program is based in LA, so many screenwriters and industry professionals serve as faculty mentors or are guest speakers. Here Adam Parker ’19 is discussing writing his short film, The Roof, which is available on Disney+.
The education I have received at the Conservatory has been so instrumental in helping me reach my true potential, and I feel truly seen and cared for as an individual by all my professors. The time I’ve spent here is something I wouldn’t trade for the world.
Box Office Hours: 12-3 p.m. weekdays; September – May.
We offer general admission seating for all productions and a wide selection of concession items.
Every summer, OST Company welcomes professional guest artists, designers, directors, and staff to produce an unforgettable season of musicals and plays in Okoboji, Iowa.
Performing Arts alumni include television and film actor Stephanie Beatriz; television, film, and Broadway actor Annie Potts; stage manager Karyn Meek; voice actress Ginny McSwain; TV actress Judith Chapman; the late Dawn Wells of Gilligan’s Island fame; and many more.
Stephens College is pleased to announce the appointment of Lisa Brescia as interim Dean of the Conservatory for the Performing Arts. Brescia, a distinguished Broadway…
As the Conservatory for the Performing Arts at Stephens College gears up for its 77th season, exciting new developments are on the horizon. The Conservatory…
The Stephens College Costume Museum will display six iconic ensembles from designers like Lanvin and Chanel in the Saint Louis Art Museum's 2025 exhibition, "Roaring:…
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