University of California Davis

Overview

The Theatre and Dance program at the University of California, Davis, offers a comprehensive exploration of both the artistic and technical aspects of live performance. This Bachelor of Arts (BA) program is designed to cultivate creativity and skill through an engaging curriculum that integrates performance history, theory, and practical application in acting, dance, and production design.

What you'll study

Core learning areas

• Theatre and dance history and cultural context
• Performance theory and criticism
• Creative practice in performance and/or production
• Research and critical writing related to performance

Example course themes

• History of Modern Dance
• American Theatre & Drama
• Representing Race in Performance
• African American Dance
• Culture in the United States, Brazil & the Caribbean
• Theatre in History & Place: Local, National & Global Conditions for Production

How you progress

• Initial coursework focuses on foundational concepts in performance history, theory, and critical methodologies.
• As you advance, you will have opportunities to concentrate on specific areas of theatre and/or dance through elective courses and hands-on projects.
• Depending on your academic plan, you may conclude your studies with a capstone project, senior research, or a significant performance or production project, tailored to departmental requirements.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

• Applicants must typically possess a minimum GPA of 3.00, with higher standards for non-residents of California.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Theatre and Dance program are well-equipped for diverse career paths in the performing arts industry. Opportunities may include roles in acting, directing, choreography, production design, and arts administration, among others. Additionally, the skills acquired during the program can be applied in various fields such as education, community engagement, and cultural organizations, allowing for a broad spectrum of professional possibilities.