Theatre, BA
Department of Music and Theatre
Department Chair: Joel Haney
Office: Music Building, 102
Phone: (661) 654-3093
Email: ksaldana@csub.edu
Program Description
The Bachelor of Arts with a major in Theatre offers comprehensive training in performance, technical theatre and design, theatre studies and theatre education, all intended to prepare students for careers in professional theatre, teaching or related fields. The requirements are flexible enough to allow each student to specialize or generalize as appropriate, and the production program offers each student extensive opportunities to participate as an actor or crew member in a variety of situations.
Any undergraduate accepted into the University may undertake this major. Continuance is contingent upon satisfactory progress in all coursework, both in and out of the major. Most opportunities are open to all CSUB students regardless of their declared major. In addition to courses that will satisfy General Education or Liberal Studies requirements, the program offers the following curricula: BA in Theatre, Minor in Theatre, Minor in Theatre Technology, and a Minor in Theatre for Youth.
Theatre Productions
The CSUB Theatrefest season includes three major productions each year, representing a broad variety of styles from classical to contemporary, Shakespeare to musicals, and dramatic to comic. Every two years, the program stages Theatre of New Voices, a festival of one-acts written and directed by CSUB students. The Theatre for Young Audiences yearly show takes live theatre on tour to local elementary schools and community centers. The Spotlight Festival brings talented high school drama students to campus for workshops and performances.
Theatre productions offer opportunities for experiential learning where students can apply and hone their skills. They are a central component of the major. Majors are expected to participate in the Theatre Program's productions each semester on stage and/or behind-the-scenes. Exceptions to this expectation will be addressed on a case-by-case basis by application to the Theatre Program faculty.
Mission Statement
The goal of the Theatre Program at California State University, Bakersfield is to develop the skills, craft, knowledge and imagination of its students within a liberal arts context. This broad preparation at the undergraduate level develops a foundation for any theatre specialization. Our aim is to help our students acquire the skills necessary to succeed in their future pursuits. The curriculum includes courses in performance, design/technology, dramatic literature/theatre history, Theatre for Youth, directing and playwriting. An integral part of a student’s training is regular participation in our season of theatrical productions. As on-campus performances are open to the public and touring performances reach thousands of local school children each year, enhancing the quality of life of the community is also a very important part of the Theatre Program’s mission.
Program Goals and Objectives
- To prepare students for career opportunities in theatre and related fields.
- To develop skills in cooperation, communication, and collaboration through the theatrical process.
- To develop critical thinking and writing skills through the study of theatre’s contribution to civilization.
- To prepare students to work independently in a disciplined and productive manner.
Career Opportunities in Theatre
Theatre majors develop a variety of skills through their course work and production experiences. These skills include discipline, oral communication, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, creative problem solving, working under pressure and adaptability. Theatre majors also learn to research, write, analyze, critique and make public presentations. These skills can be applied to many careers in theatre, film, television and digital media as well as a wide range of other fields, including education, business, sales and marketing, consulting, public relations and more.
Students interested in acquiring a teaching credential in Theatre should consult a Theatre advisor for up-to-date information and guidance in selecting appropriate courses.