The Old Globe and University of San Diego Master of Fine Arts in Theatre Program Renamed The Old Globe and University of San Diego Shiley Graduate Theatre Program

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 3, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- The Old Globe and University of San Diego Master of Fine Arts in Theatre Program has been renamed as The Old Globe and University of San Diego Shiley Graduate Theatre Program in honor of Donald and Darlene Shiley.

"The new name reflects the Shileys' passion for the theatre and investment in The Old Globe and MFA program over the years," said University of San Diego Provost Andrew T. Allen. "Their tremendous support has allowed the Shiley Graduate Theatre Program to become one of the most acclaimed classical training programs in the United States."

"The philanthropy of Darlene and Donald Shiley is the bedrock on which The Old Globe stands," said Old Globe Artistic Director Barry Edelstein. "They have shaped the future of our field in the form of the actors who go on to important work after graduating the acclaimed classical training program that now bears the Shiley name. We are glad of this opportunity to honor Donald's memory, and grateful for Darlene's continuing support." 

Private funding for the MFA program has been contributed through a generous endowment established by the Shileys that allows students to attend tuition-free. In 2010, they also gave a substantial gift to endow the Craig Noel Distinguished Professorship in Graduate Theater, in honor of the Old Globe's founding director.

Noel and USD Provost Sister Sally Furay established the MFA program in 1987. Currently the Shiley Graduate Theatre Program accepts seven students each year from hundreds of applicants. With only a two-percent acceptance rate, it has become one of the most competitive graduate acting programs in the country.

The program's graduates, including Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning actor Jim Parsons, star of "The Big Bang Theory," have made their mark on the profession, performing extensively on and Off Broadway, in regional theatres and feature films, and on television.

Students receive a comprehensive curriculum, including acting, voice, and performance and invaluable practical experience at a major professional theatre.  

"Each year at as we meet the incoming actors at an annual lunch, we hear updates about former students, and seeing those eager, talented—and young—faces reminds you of why you give to the theatre," said Darlene Shiley, herself a former actress.

For more information go to www.graduateacting.com.

SOURCE University of San Diego

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http://www.graduateacting.com