YSU Department of Theater and Dance

- 422 Wick Ave, Youngstown, OH 44555

For those in the Ohio region with a passion for the performing arts, the YSU Department of Theater and Dance at Youngstown State University is a name that resonates with quality and excellence. It is a vibrant academic and artistic center that serves as a cornerstone of the Youngstown community's cultural life. The department is a place where students and professionals alike can engage with the transformative power of live performance. With a commitment to rigorous training, collaborative creation, and community engagement, the department offers a space for artists to develop their voices, refine their craft, and become leaders in the performing arts world. This overview will provide a comprehensive look at what makes the YSU Department of Theater and Dance a premier destination for theatergoers and aspiring artists in Ohio, highlighting its diverse offerings, professional environment, and dedication to its students and the community at large.

The YSU Department of Theater and Dance is recognized for its high-caliber productions, with many attendees praising the "great actors" and the consistently "great time" they have at a show. The department provides a professional atmosphere that prepares students for careers in the field. From the coursework to hands-on experiences on stage and behind the scenes, students are immersed in every aspect of the theater arts. The program is designed to be student-centered and rigorous, ensuring that students' needs and passions are met with a high standard of professionalism and personal achievement. This focus on both practical experience and academic excellence is a hallmark of the department's educational philosophy. The department is a place where students don't just learn about theater and dance; they do, through multiple fully produced mainstage productions, cabarets, and other special projects each year. These opportunities are not just for the performers but also for the scenic, costume, and lighting designers, as well as aspiring directors and choreographers, providing a comprehensive education for all. This blend of academic rigor and hands-on experience creates a truly dynamic learning environment.

The department's mission is to create work that has value beyond the arts world, directly engaging the campus and local community. Through a diverse season of plays, musicals, and original works, the department provides thought-provoking and entertaining performances that enrich the cultural landscape of Youngstown. This commitment to community extends to the students themselves, who are encouraged to take artistic risks, collaborate effectively, and become well-rounded individuals with a broad spectrum of knowledge and skills. It is an institution that believes in the power of the arts to inspire, educate, and transform, making it a valuable asset to the Ohio region.

The YSU Department of Theater and Dance is located on the campus of Youngstown State University at 422 Wick Ave, Youngstown, OH 44555, USA. Its central location on a well-known campus makes it a straightforward and convenient destination for attendees and students from across the Mahoning Valley and beyond. The department is committed to accessibility, with both a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance. This ensures that patrons with mobility challenges can easily attend performances and that students can access the facilities for rehearsals and classes without issue. The location within the larger university campus provides access to a variety of amenities and a safe environment. The prominent position on Wick Avenue makes it a recognizable landmark in Youngstown, reflecting its importance as a cultural and educational institution in the Ohio region.

Services Offered

• Academic Programs: The department offers professional Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) degrees in Theatre with concentrations in Acting, Musical Theatre, or Design/Technology. It also offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Theatre Studies and a minor in dance.
• Live Performances: Each year, the University Theatre presents a vibrant season of plays, musicals, and special projects. These productions offer students invaluable practical experience and provide the community with high-quality entertainment.
• Hands-On Experience: Students are engaged in multiple fully produced mainstage productions, cabarets, and festivals, allowing them to apply classroom theory in a real-world setting.
• Masterclasses and Workshops: The department frequently hosts masterclasses with internationally acclaimed guest directors and actors, providing students with exposure to professional expertise and networking opportunities.
• Dance Classes: The department offers a wide range of dance courses, including ballet, jazz, tap, and modern dance, for all levels from introductory to advanced.
• Design and Technical Training: Beyond performance, the department offers rigorous training in all technical aspects of theatre, including set, costume, and lighting design.
• Auditions and Scholarships: The department provides a clear process for prospective students to audition for its competitive programs and offers scholarships for academic and artistic merit.

Features / Highlights

• Rigorous Training: The program is known for its high standards and rigorous training, which prepares students for professional careers in the performing arts.
• Professional Productions: The department’s productions are often praised for their high quality, showcasing the talent of both the students and the professional faculty.
• One-on-One Mentoring: Students receive individualized attention and mentoring from a world-class faculty and staff, ensuring personal and artistic growth.
• Community Engagement: The department is committed to creating work that engages the local community, making it a vital part of Youngstown's cultural landscape.
• Collaborative Environment: The program emphasizes teamwork, communication, and collaboration, which are essential skills for any career in the performing arts and beyond.
• Diverse Offerings: From acting and directing to design and musical theatre, the department offers a wide array of opportunities for students to explore different facets of the arts.
• Accessibility: The wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance make the department's facilities and performances accessible to everyone.

Contact Information

Address: 422 Wick Ave, Youngstown, OH 44555, USA

Phone: (330) 941-3810

What is worth choosing

For those in the Ohio region looking to pursue a career in the performing arts or simply to enjoy high-quality live theater and dance, the YSU Department of Theater and Dance is an outstanding choice. Its primary advantage is the professional, hands-on training it provides. Students are not just learning in a classroom; they are actively involved in multiple fully produced productions each year. This experiential learning is invaluable, allowing students to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting, whether they are on stage or behind the scenes. The department's focus on one-on-one mentoring from a world-class faculty ensures that each student receives the guidance and attention needed to hone their craft and reach their full potential. This level of personalized education is a significant benefit for any aspiring artist.

Another key reason to choose the YSU Department of Theater and Dance is its strong connection to the local community. The department is more than just a place of learning; it is a cultural anchor for Youngstown. By producing a diverse season of plays and musicals, the department provides accessible and engaging entertainment for the public, enriching the cultural life of the entire region. This community focus also means that students' work has a tangible impact, giving them a sense of purpose and a platform to share their art with a wider audience. The department's commitment to accessibility, with its wheelchair-accessible facilities, ensures that everyone has the opportunity to experience the magic of live performance.

In conclusion, the YSU Department of Theater and Dance offers a unique and comprehensive experience that blends rigorous academic and technical training with practical, real-world application. It is a place where aspiring artists can receive a professional education, collaborate with talented peers, and become part of a vibrant artistic community. The department's commitment to excellence, its strong community ties, and its focus on the holistic development of its students make it a premier destination for anyone passionate about theater and dance in Ohio.

YSU Department of Theater and Dance

422 Wick Ave, Youngstown, OH 44555, USA