Western Washington University Department of Theatre and Dance

Department of Theatre and Dance Introduce

For residents of Washington, and particularly those in the Puget Sound area, the Western Washington University Department of Theatre and Dance is a powerful cultural force. More than just an academic department, it is a creative hub that enriches the Bellingham community and beyond with a vibrant season of performances and a commitment to fostering the next generation of artists. The department is dedicated to providing a transformative liberal arts education grounded in the rigorous study and practice of both theatre and dance. It’s a place where aspiring performers, choreographers, directors, designers, and technicians can develop their skills in a professional and collaborative environment. This blend of academic rigor and hands-on application creates a unique learning experience, and the results are on full display for the public to enjoy through their numerous productions each year.

The Department of Theatre and Dance is a core part of the College of Fine and Performing Arts at Western Washington University, which is celebrated for its commitment to creating "thinking artists and artistic thinkers." The department's faculty, many of whom are professional educators and artists, are devoted to providing students with high-quality instruction. They are passionate about helping students discover their artistic voice and preparing them for a wide variety of careers, not just in the arts, but in any field that values collaboration, critical thinking, and communication. This focus on both pre-professional training and the broader liberal arts makes the department a strong foundation for future success. The department's mission is to promote an inclusive and collaborative view of performing arts, and this is evident in the range of opportunities available to students and the public.

The Department of Theatre and Dance is located on the Western Washington University campus in the Performing Arts Center (PAC) at 516 High St, Bellingham, WA 98225, USA. This central campus location makes it easily accessible for students, faculty, and the public. The PAC is a prominent and well-known building on campus, making it easy to find. For those driving, the location offers a wheelchair-accessible car park, and the building itself has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that everyone can attend performances and events. Its location in Bellingham makes it a cultural anchor for the city, attracting audiences from all over Whatcom County and beyond. The accessibility of the venue contributes significantly to the department’s ability to engage with the wider community and share the arts with a broad audience.

The Department of Theatre and Dance offers a variety of services and programs, catering to both students and the public.

Academic Programs: The department provides undergraduate degrees in Theatre Arts (BA) and Dance (BA and BFA). Students in Theatre Arts can select one or more concentrations, including Performance, Production, Entertainment Design and Technology, Educational Theatre, and Theatre Studies, to tailor their education to their specific interests.
Public Performances: Each year, the department presents a full season of public performances, including five faculty-led theatre productions and two dance concerts. This professional-quality season gives students invaluable hands-on experience and provides the public with top-notch entertainment.
Student-Led Productions: In addition to the mainstage season, the department supports Student Theatre Productions (STP), a student-run company that produces its own season of shows. This provides an additional creative outlet for students and a different type of performance for the community.
Specialized Courses and Training: The curriculum is rich with specialized courses, from acting and dramatic writing to stage management, costume design, and lighting design. The department also offers unique opportunities to study devising, a process of collaboratively creating new work, and hosts guest artists and professionals for workshops and residencies.
Facilities and Technical Support: Students have access to professional facilities, including the Mainstage with its large proscenium stage and the intimate DUG Theatre, a versatile black box space. This hands-on access to professional-level equipment and support is a rare opportunity at the undergraduate level.

The Department of Theatre and Dance stands out due to several key features and highlights.

Award-Winning Programs: The department has received six National Awards from the Kennedy Center for its devised productions, highlighting its innovative and high-quality approach to creating new work.
Exceptional Faculty: All courses are taught by professional educators, not graduate students, ensuring a high level of expertise and dedication in every class. The low student-to-faculty ratio allows for more personalized attention and mentorship.
Emphasis on Hands-On Experience: Students are given extensive opportunities to work on professional-quality productions as actors, dancers, designers, stage managers, and technicians. This practical application of skills is a core part of the department’s educational philosophy.
Focus on Devising and Playwriting: The curriculum includes a strong focus on self-generative artistry, including an introduction to playwriting class that is often overlooked at other undergraduate programs. This encourages students to be active participants in the cultural conversation.
Community Engagement: The department is a vital part of the Bellingham cultural scene, offering affordable entertainment and working with professionals to provide students with a bridge from college to career.

For more information about academic programs, upcoming performances, or to get involved, you can contact the department directly.

Address: PAC, 516 High St, Bellingham, WA 98225, USA

Phone: (360) 650-3876

For anyone in Washington seeking a high-quality arts experience or a top-tier educational path in the performing arts, the Department of Theatre and Dance at Western Washington University is an outstanding choice. What makes it worth choosing is its dual commitment to rigorous liberal arts education and professional, hands-on training. The public benefits from a continuous stream of professional-quality productions, while students gain invaluable experience that prepares them for a successful future. The focus on inclusivity, collaboration, and the creation of new and innovative work sets this department apart. By attending a performance, you're not just watching a show; you're supporting local artists and the future of the arts in Washington state. Whether you're a prospective student or a theatre-goer, the Department of Theatre and Dance provides a rich and rewarding experience that truly makes an impact on the community.