The Performing Arts Department offers a BA degree program as well as numerous performance opportunities in Theatre, Music and Dance. Courses in Performing Arts are also part of the General Education Requirements. Importantly, all students can become actively involved onstage, backstage, front-of-house, or as members of the audience. Performances take place regularly in the Harry Hope Theatre, in Shafer Auditorium, in the Betty Tipton Room, and other spaces on-campus as well as on tour (i.e. in NYC and London!).

The Music program offers a broad range of courses and performance opportunities (i.e. Concert Chorale, Renaissance Vocal Ensemble, Gospel Choir, Concert Band, EEE Electronic Music Ensemble) as well as individualized Music instruction. Particular attention is paid to providing opportunities for students to gain a world perspective, develop solid technique, and to understand the integrated nature of the arts.

Theatre students are constantly challenged through classes and productions. Professional guest artists often teach and direct alongside a mentoring faculty and staff. The Drama Society offers leadership opportunities. Students attend annual Theatre conferences (i.e. ACTF). The CSU Off-Broadway Showcase of Student Talent and the International Summer School in London offer “real world” opportunities as well.

Dance students find leadership and creative opportunities through the Repertory Dance Troupe. As with all the Performing Arts, Dance courses provide students with the history, theory and technique of the art. Collaborations with Theatre and Music as well as annual Dance concerts offer the student performance opportunities.

The Performing Arts Department is fully committed to providing a welcoming, engaging, inspiring and enlightening program. Please call the department office at 860-465-5325 for more information; the Harry Hope box office at 860-465-5123 (or 5121) for ticket reservations.