School of Theatre & Dance

- Center for the Performing Arts, 1325 Theatre Dr, Kent, OH 44243

In the heart of Ohio, a vibrant and dynamic community of artists and performers finds its home at the School of Theatre & Dance at Kent State University. This is not merely an academic department; it is a thriving artistic center that plays a pivotal role in the cultural life of the region. Housed within the impressive Center for the Performing Arts, the school is a place where aspiring actors, dancers, designers, and technicians are given the opportunity to transform their passion into a profession. The School of Theatre & Dance is built on a foundation of creative excellence, providing a comprehensive education that combines rigorous conservatory training with a solid liberal arts foundation. This dual focus ensures that students are not only technically proficient but also intellectually versatile, ready to contribute to a constantly evolving world.

The School of Theatre & Dance is a place where a professional culture permeates every facet of learning. From dawn until long after dark, the studios, classrooms, and stages are alive with creative activity. The environment is designed to be supportive and inclusive, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds and empowering them to reach their full potential. For local Ohioans, this institution offers a chance to experience professional-level performances, as well as providing a pathway for young people to pursue their dreams in the performing arts without having to leave the state. The school’s commitment to its students is evident in its state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated faculty, and a robust network of alumni and guest artists who bring real-world experience into the classroom. It is a community that embraces each individual for who they are, fostering an atmosphere where creative courage can flourish and personal purpose can be discovered.

The School of Theatre & Dance is centrally located at the Center for the Performing Arts, 1325 Theatre Dr, Kent, OH 44243, USA. Its position on the Kent State University campus makes it a focal point for the university’s arts and culture scene. The location is easily accessible for residents of Kent and the surrounding communities, with major roadways providing a straightforward commute. A significant highlight of the facility is its accessibility. The school is equipped with a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all guests and students can visit and participate with ease. This commitment to inclusivity demonstrates a deep respect for the entire community. For local users in Ohio, having a premier performing arts institution that is both geographically and physically accessible is a major convenience, making it a go-to destination for high-quality productions and educational opportunities.

The School of Theatre & Dance offers a rich and diverse range of programs and services, catering to various disciplines within the performing arts. While it is primarily a university-level institution, its impact on the community through its public performances and educational outreach is significant. The school provides a variety of academic and artistic programs, and hosts a full season of on-stage productions that are open to the public. These performances give local Ohioans a chance to experience the work of a new generation of talent, often directed and designed by faculty and professional guest artists. The curriculum is comprehensive and designed to produce well-rounded artists and scholars. The specific services and programs offered include a wide array of degrees and minors, as well as a full season of performances. The following is a list of their main areas of focus and a selection of the types of classes and programs available:

• Dance Programs: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance, Bachelor of Arts in Dance Studies, and a Minor in Dance.
• Theatre Programs: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatre Design, Technology, and Production, Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Studies, Master of Fine Arts in Acting, and a Master of Fine Arts in Theatre Design and Technology.
• Public Performances: A Main Stage Season featuring plays, musicals, and dance concerts, including the Fall and Spring Faculty Dance Concerts.
• Community Engagement: Opportunities to attend performances at Porthouse Theatre, the school's outdoor summer theatre.
• Auditions and Portfolio Reviews: A structured process for aspiring students to be considered for the B.F.A. programs in Dance and Musical Theatre.

The school's extensive curriculum and commitment to both education and performance make it a cornerstone of the arts in the region, providing invaluable training and entertainment for the Ohio community.

What truly sets the School of Theatre & Dance apart are its unique features and highlights, which combine to create a world-class performing arts environment right here in Ohio. The school’s commitment to creative excellence and its professional culture are evident in every aspect of its operation. One of the most significant highlights is the quality of its facilities. The Roe Green Center for the School of Theatre and Dance, a state-of-the-art facility, houses over 70,000 square feet of learning, performance, and design space, including multiple dance studios and a rehabilitation studio. This is complemented by three on-site performance spaces and the outdoor Porthouse Theatre, providing frequent opportunities for students to showcase their work and for the public to enjoy a wide variety of productions. Other key highlights include:

• Professional Culture: The school is a destination for performing arts education, with a culture that inspires students to train for dynamic disciplines and transforms their passion into a profession.
• Extensive Performance Opportunities: Students have multiple chances to display their work and gain real-world experience through the Main Stage Season and summer theatre productions. The Kent Dance Ensemble is the university's pre-professional dance company, providing another avenue for high-level performance.
• Distinguished Faculty and Alumni: The school boasts an outstanding faculty of artist/teachers and a robust network of successful alumni, many of whom have gone on to professional careers in the arts. This network provides invaluable connections and mentorship for current students.
• Accreditation: The school is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST), a testament to its high standards and quality of education.
• Broad Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to be well-rounded, combining rigorous technical training in dance, acting, and design with a liberal arts education. This prepares students for diverse career paths in the arts and beyond.

For those interested in attending a performance, learning more about the programs, or exploring the possibility of enrollment, the School of Theatre & Dance is easy to contact. Their office staff is ready to answer questions and provide information about upcoming shows and academic opportunities. The contact information is as follows:

Address: Center for the Performing Arts, 1325 Theatre Dr, Kent, OH 44243, USA

Phone: (330) 672-2082

What makes the School of Theatre & Dance a truly worthy choice for anyone in Ohio is its ability to provide a world-class performing arts experience right in their backyard. For aspiring students, it offers a comprehensive and professional education that is on par with some of the best programs in the country, all within a supportive and inclusive community. For local theater and dance enthusiasts, it provides a consistent and high-quality lineup of performances throughout the year, from classic plays to contemporary dance concerts. The school’s state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated faculty, and emphasis on both artistic and intellectual growth create an unparalleled learning and performance environment. The commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone can enjoy and participate in the magic of the performing arts. By choosing to engage with the School of Theatre & Dance, whether as a student or an audience member, you are choosing to be a part of a vibrant community that celebrates creativity, nurtures talent, and contributes to the rich cultural tapestry of Ohio.

School of Theatre & Dance

Center for the Performing Arts, 1325 Theatre Dr, Kent, OH 44243, USA