Department of Theater and Dance - Bowdoin College

- Bath Rd, Brunswick, ME 04011

For those in Maine with a passion for the performing arts, a hidden gem awaits at Bowdoin College in Brunswick. The Department of Theater and Dance at Bowdoin is more than just an academic department for students; it is a vibrant hub of creativity that offers a rich array of performances and events open to the public. The department is a key part of the local arts scene, providing a wide range of captivating shows and productions throughout the year. From the thought-provoking and classic dramas to the exhilarating energy of dance shows, the department presents a unique and professional-level performing arts experience right here in our own community.

The mission of the department is to integrate studio technique, history, and theory, fostering a dynamic environment where both students and the public can engage with performance as a means of imaginative exploration and critical thinking. The productions are not just about entertainment; they are a deep dive into the human condition, using the power of theater and dance to challenge assumptions, tell stories, and build community. By attending a performance, you're not just a passive audience member; you're participating in an ongoing conversation about art, culture, and society. The department's commitment to producing a variety of shows, including modern comedies, classical works, and original pieces, ensures that there is always something new and exciting to see for every taste.

The Department of Theater and Dance at Bowdoin College is conveniently located on the college's campus at Bath Rd, Brunswick, ME 04011, USA. The campus is a well-known landmark in Brunswick, making it a simple destination to find for both locals and visitors from surrounding towns. For the convenience of those attending performances and events, the department provides a wheelchair accessible parking lot. This commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone in the community can enjoy the high-quality performances and events hosted at the college’s theaters and performance spaces.

The college's location in Brunswick places it at the heart of midcoast Maine, making it a cultural destination for residents from Portland, Augusta, and beyond. The easily accessible location means that attending a play or a dance concert is a stress-free and enjoyable experience. The campus itself is a beautiful and historic setting that adds to the overall experience of attending a show. By making performances available to the public and ensuring accessibility, the Department of Theater and Dance at Bowdoin truly serves as a valuable resource for the entire state of Maine.

While primarily an academic program, the Department of Theater and Dance at Bowdoin College extends its expertise to the wider community through its various public-facing services and events. These include a variety of performances and opportunities for engagement.

• Stage Productions: The department produces several main stage theater productions each year, covering a wide range of genres from classic drama to original works. Recent productions have included everything from Jaclyn Backhaus's "Men on Boats" to Stephen Sondheim's "Into the Woods." These productions are professionally directed and performed by talented students, often working alongside faculty and guest artists.

• Dance Shows and Concerts: The department's dance program culminates in two major annual dance concerts, typically in December and May. These shows feature choreography by both faculty members and students and showcase a variety of dance techniques, including jazz dance, classical ballet, hip hop, Afro-modern, and more. They are a highlight of the academic year and a fantastic display of the students' skill and creativity.

• Student Performance Groups: The college is home to a number of student-led dance and theater groups that put on shows open to the public. Groups like Polar Bear Swing Dance, Broken (a breakdancing group), and Intersection (focusing on Latin and Afro-Latin dances) provide additional performance opportunities and casual drop-in classes, making the arts even more accessible and fun for everyone.

• Guest Artist Events and Lectures: The department frequently brings in guest artists, professional companies, and scholars to lead workshops, give lectures, and perform. These events enrich the cultural life of the campus and the wider community, providing a chance to engage with world-class talent and innovative ideas.

• Dance and Theater Classes: While many classes are for students pursuing a major or minor, the department offers a variety of courses in theater and dance technique that are open to the wider college population and, in some cases, to the community. These classes can include everything from Lindy Hop and swing dance to classical ballet and theater production.

These diverse offerings ensure that the Department of Theater and Dance is a vibrant resource for everyone in Maine, not just the college community.

The Department of Theater and Dance at Bowdoin College offers a number of features and highlights that make it a standout destination for arts lovers in Maine.

• High-Caliber Productions: The quality of the performances is a major highlight. From professional-level stage design and lighting to the talented performances of the students, the productions rival those of professional theaters, providing an exceptional cultural experience at an accessible price point, often free to the public.

• Diverse Repertoire: The department’s commitment to a varied repertoire is a significant feature. By presenting a mix of classic plays, new works, and a wide array of dance styles, they ensure that there is always something fresh and engaging for a broad audience. This variety also demonstrates the breadth of the students' training and talent.

• Community Engagement: Beyond the ticketed events, the department actively engages with the local community. Through student-led groups, which often host drop-in classes, and through partnerships for touring productions in local schools, the department extends its mission beyond the campus, enriching the lives of people throughout the state.

• "Good for Kids": The performances and events are often suitable for families, making them a great option for a cultural outing with children. The college’s productions can be an inspiring and educational introduction to the performing arts for young ones, helping to spark a lifelong interest in theater and dance.

These features, combined with the academic rigor of the department, create an invaluable asset for the arts community in Maine.

To learn more about upcoming performances, events, or general inquiries, you can contact the department using the information below:

Address: Bath Rd, Brunswick, ME 04011, USA
Phone: (207) 725-3663

When it comes to choosing a performing arts experience in the Maine region, the Department of Theater and Dance at Bowdoin College is a compelling option. While it is an academic institution, its public-facing offerings are of a professional caliber and provide an incredible value. The fact that many of the productions and concerts are free or low-cost makes them accessible to everyone in the community, removing a significant barrier to enjoying the arts. The quality of the shows—from ambitious stage productions to dynamic dance concerts—is consistently high, a direct result of the talented students and dedicated faculty.

By choosing to attend a Bowdoin performance, you are supporting the next generation of artists and scholars. You are also immersing yourself in a vibrant cultural experience that is carefully curated to be both entertaining and thought-provoking. The range of offerings, from a classical ballet performance to a student-choreographed hip hop piece, ensures that every visit is a unique experience. Ultimately, the Department of Theater and Dance at Bowdoin College is worth choosing because it serves as a central point of artistic energy in Maine, offering a constant flow of fresh, creative, and inspiring work that is both academically rigorous and deeply human. It's an opportunity to connect with the arts and support the local community, all in one place.

Department of Theater and Dance - Bowdoin College

Bath Rd, Brunswick, ME 04011, USA