Design

Toni-Leslie James, Co-Chair
Riccardo Hernández, Co-Chair
M.F.A. and Certificate

 

The purpose of the Design program is to develop theater artists who are accomplished, committed, daring designers of costume, lighting, projection, set, and sound for the theater. The program encourages students to discover their own process of formulating design ideas, to develop a discriminating standard for their own endeavors, and above all to prepare for a creative and meaningful professional life in the broad range of theater activities.

The Design program is committed to dismantling racism by engaging in an ongoing examination of the policies and practices of the program and the profession in general in order to expose biases and systemic advantage/oppression where they exist and to build a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment through anti-racist practices.

 

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All students in degree and certificate programs receive full tuition scholarships.

67% of current students receive need-based aid for living expenses.

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Production Opportunities

Students apply theory to professional practice in production work at the School, Yale Rep, and Yale Cabaret.

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Student Groups

Coalition-building and networking among students who share common interests, goals, and/or a self-identified background.

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Student Perspectives

Creating in Community

Student Perspectives

Putting Lived Experiences Onstage

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Program News

headshot of Jessie Baldinger
Apr 15, 2026

Jessie Baldinger (’26) Named Burry Fredrik Design Fellow

The Design Fellowship was established in 2017 to help launch the careers of graduates from David Geffen School of Drama’s Design program.

headshot of Evan Yionoulis
Apr 07, 2026

Welcome Home, Evan!

Evan Yionoulis (’85, ’82 B.A.) has been appointed the next Elizabeth Parker Ware Dean of David Geffen School of Drama and Artistic Director of Yale Repertory Theatre, effective July 1.

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