California State University Fresno

Theatre Arts - Acting Emphasis, B.A.

The theatre arts major and dance major offer you the opportunity to develop your skills in acting, directing, dance training, research and performance, choreography, playwriting, children’s theatre, technical production, scene design, costume design, sound design, stage management, lighting design, history, literature, and teaching. After completing our program, you will have the background that will enhance your ability to pursue either a teaching credential, advanced degree, or a professional career.

Our professionally trained instructors will guide you through a program that is not only educational but fascinating. A major or minor in theatre or dance can be one of the more exciting times in your life because it will develop communication and performing skills that will aid you no matter what career you finally decide to pursue. If theatre or dance is what you want, then the Fresno State Department of Theatre and Dance is ready to serve you. The Theatre Arts faculty includes performers, designers, and directors with top academic credentials as well as professional experience. The department is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Theatre. Organizations such as the Kennedy Center/American College Theater Festival and the American College Dance Association have honored numerous Fresno State Students.

The Department of Theatre and Dance is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST) and holds memberships with the Association for Theatre in Higher Education, the California Educational Theatre Association, the California Alliance for Arts Education, and the United States Institute of Theatre Technology. The department regularly participates in the American College Theatre Festival (ACTF) and the American College Dance Association (ACDA). Our students, faculty, and productions have been awarded many regional and national honors from both ACTF and ACDA.

Our national award-winning Department offers you educational preparation in all aspects of theatre and dance. Besides having the opportunity of being guided by an extensive curriculum and production schedule of more than 9 plays and numerous dance concerts, you will have the opportunity to study with guest professionals who participate in our program on a regular basis.

At Fresno State there are a variety of production organizations, each providing a different kind of experience. University Theatre produces six major theatre and dance productions a year, cast and crewed by students. The Experimental Theatre Company (ETC) is a student organization and University Dance Theatre (UDT) is a student centered dance course, they produce their own plays and dance concerts. The Black Theatre Contingent (BTC) focuses on drama of the African-American experience. Playwrights Theatre is dedicated to the exploration of dramatic literature. Theatre for Young Audiences produces plays for young people and tours throughout the Valley. You also have the opportunity to work with our resident dance company, the Contemporary Dance Ensemble. As you can see, we offer a variety of opportunities for you to develop and practice your art.