Tennessee Tech University’s theatre program is enhancing its upcoming shows and expanding opportunities for students through a new partnership with the Cumberland County Playhouse, one of the Southeast’s premier regional theatres.

The partnership, announced ahead of Tech’s fall production of “Into the Woods,” opening Nov. 6 in the university’s Backdoor Playhouse, will provide both creative and educational benefits for students. The Playhouse offers hands-on learning experiences for Tech theatre students through tailored internships at its Crossville campus and supplies costumes and props for this season’s productions.

The collaboration deepens a relationship that began when Tech introduced its musical theatre concentration four years ago within the School of Music’s vocal performance program.

“When we first created the concentration, one of the things we really wanted was for an internship with the Cumberland County Playhouse to be part of the student experience,” said Wendy Mullen, professor in the School of Music and director of “Into the Woods.”

“In their senior year, our students spend their last semester working with professionals at the Playhouse in whatever area of theatre interests them — whether that’s costuming, stage management, choreography or even performing. It’s a wonderful opportunity to make professional connections that can launch their careers,” Mullen added.

This semester, that partnership has grown to include direct production support. The Playhouse’s head costume designer and two members of its costume staff are collaborating on Tech’s production of “Into the Woods.” The Playhouse is also lending the university pieces from its extensive costume collection, coordinated through a Tech student liaison.

“They think carefully about every detail — color schemes, textures, audience experience — so it’s not just borrowing garments,” Mullen said. “It’s a thoughtful artistic collaboration, and we’re thrilled to have that level of professional design on our stage.”

Cumberland County Playhouse CEO Bryce McDonald and Artistic Director Britt Hancock also visited campus earlier this semester to assist with student callbacks and casting for “Into the Woods,” giving Tech students the unique opportunity to audition for working professionals.

“We at the Cumberland County Playhouse are thrilled about our partnership with Tennessee Tech, to be able to foster and assist in the growth of students with a passion for the arts,” said McDonald. “The Playhouse’s mission is to create high-quality accessible theater that has the ability to touch hearts, open minds and change lives. To be able to put that mission statement into action with Tennessee Tech is so rewarding. The talent that we are seeing grow at Tech is exciting and inspiring.”

Craig Dettman, director of Tech’s theatre program and technical director for the Backdoor Playhouse, said the partnership brings both prestige and potential.

“Everybody who is interested in theatre in this region knows the Cumberland County Playhouse,” Dettman said. “It’s a blessing to have this relationship, and it’s very meaningful that they’ve taken such an interest in our work. It’s a big deal, and it’s going to open doors for more students.”

The collaboration comes during a period of growth for the university’s theatre program. In addition to the launch of its musical theatre concentration four years ago and Dettman’s hire in 2024, Tech has completed renovations to the Backdoor Playhouse – with more lighting and sound enhancements on the horizon, thanks to a generous donor – and the College of Fine Arts, which encompasses the theatre program, has seen a 36 percent enrollment increase over the last four years.

“One of the things I tell students is that we are training for the professional world,” Dettman said. “Our program offers opportunities early and often. We have a smaller theatre, but incredible talent and a dedicated faculty, and anyone at Tech can get involved — auditions are open to all students.”

For Mullen, the program’s community spirit is one of its defining strengths.

“It really builds people up and brings them together in community,” she said. “Even if you don’t see yourself as a performer, there are so many other ways to be part of theatre. And the students are amazing. I have had such joy directing the show.”

The Cumberland County Playhouse is celebrating its 60th anniversary season this year — making the timing of the collaboration even more fitting.

“It’s a partnership that benefits everyone,” Mullen said. “Our students are gaining professional experience, and the Playhouse is getting to know the next generation of theatre talent from Tennessee Tech.”

“Into the Woods” opens Nov. 6 in the Backdoor Playhouse at Tennessee Tech University. For more information about the theatre program, visit www.tntech.edu/fine-arts/theatre.