Bates College Theater and Dance is a vibrant and dynamic program that stands at the forefront of performing arts education, offering students an immersive and interdisciplinary approach to theater and dance. Renowned for its rigorous academic curriculum, hands-on production opportunities, and state-of-the-art facilities, the program fosters creativity, critical thinking, and technical proficiency. Located in Lewiston, Maine, Bates College provides a supportive and collaborative environment where students can explore the depths of theatrical and dance performance, design, and theory. Whether you are an aspiring actor, dancer, director, designer, or scholar, Bates College Theater and Dance offers a transformative educational experience that prepares students for successful careers in the performing arts and beyond.

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Bates College Department of Theater and Dance

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Academic Curriculum

The Theater and Dance program at Bates College is designed to provide a comprehensive education that balances theoretical knowledge with practical experience. The curriculum includes a wide range of courses in acting, directing, choreography, design, stagecraft, and dance techniques. Students can pursue a major or minor in Theater or Dance, with opportunities to engage in interdisciplinary studies that integrate other academic disciplines such as literature, history, and visual arts.

• Theater Courses: The theater curriculum covers a broad spectrum of topics, including classical and contemporary drama, performance theory, and technical theater. Courses such as “Acting I & II,” “Directing,” “Stage Design,” and “Theater History” provide students with a solid foundation in both the art and craft of theater.
• Dance Courses: The dance curriculum emphasizes both technical proficiency and creative expression. Courses like “Modern Dance Technique,” “Choreography,” “Dance History,” and “Improvisation” allow students to develop their skills and artistic voice. The program also offers workshops and masterclasses with visiting artists, providing students with exposure to diverse dance styles and professional practices.

Production Opportunities

One of the hallmarks of the Bates College Theater and Dance program is its commitment to hands-on learning through production opportunities. Students are actively involved in all aspects of theater and dance productions, from performance and choreography to design and stage management.

• Mainstage Productions: Each year, the department presents a series of mainstage productions, including plays, musicals, and dance concerts. These productions are directed and choreographed by faculty members, guest artists, and advanced students, providing a platform for students to showcase their talents and gain professional-level experience.
• Student-Led Projects: In addition to mainstage productions, students have the opportunity to initiate and lead their own projects. This includes directing, choreographing, and producing independent works, which are often presented in the college’s black box theater or other performance spaces.
• Collaborative Environment: The program encourages collaboration across disciplines, with students from theater, dance, music, and visual arts often working together on productions. This interdisciplinary approach enriches the creative process and fosters a sense of community among students.

Facilities

Bates College boasts state-of-the-art facilities that support the Theater and Dance program’s academic and production activities. These facilities provide students with the resources they need to excel in their studies and creative endeavors.

• Gannett Theater: The Gannett Theater is a fully equipped proscenium theater that serves as the primary venue for mainstage productions. It features advanced lighting and sound systems, a spacious stage, and comfortable seating for audiences.
• Black Box Theater: The black box theater is a flexible performance space that can be configured in various ways to suit different types of productions. It is often used for experimental works, student-led projects, and intimate performances.
• Dance Studios: The program has dedicated dance studios with sprung floors, mirrors, and barres, providing an ideal environment for dance classes, rehearsals, and performances. The studios are equipped with sound systems and are available for student use outside of class times.
• Scene Shop and Costume Studio: The scene shop is a fully equipped workspace where students can build sets and props for productions. The costume studio offers facilities for designing, constructing, and fitting costumes, with access to sewing machines, fabrics, and other materials.

Faculty and Guest Artists

The Theater and Dance program at Bates College is led by a distinguished faculty of experienced artists, scholars, and educators. The faculty members are dedicated to mentoring students and helping them achieve their artistic and academic goals. In addition to the regular faculty, the program frequently hosts guest artists and visiting lecturers who bring fresh perspectives and professional insights to the classroom and stage.

• Faculty Expertise: The faculty includes accomplished directors, choreographers, actors, dancers, designers, and scholars who are actively engaged in their respective fields. Their expertise spans a wide range of genres and styles, from classical theater and ballet to contemporary performance and experimental dance.
• Guest Artists: The program regularly invites guest artists to conduct workshops, masterclasses, and residencies. These visiting artists provide students with valuable opportunities to learn from professionals in the industry and to network with established practitioners.

Alumni Success

Graduates of the Bates College Theater and Dance program have gone on to achieve success in various areas of the performing arts and beyond. Alumni have pursued careers as actors, dancers, directors, choreographers, designers, educators, and arts administrators. Many have also continued their education at prestigious graduate programs in theater, dance, and related fields.

• Professional Careers: Alumni have worked with renowned theater companies, dance ensembles, and production companies across the country and around the world. Their achievements are a testament to the quality of education and training they received at Bates College.
• Graduate Programs: Graduates have been accepted into top-tier graduate programs, where they have further honed their skills and expanded their knowledge. These programs include some of the most respected institutions for theater and dance in the United States and abroad.

Community Engagement

The Theater and Dance program at Bates College is deeply committed to community engagement and outreach. Students and faculty regularly collaborate with local schools, community organizations, and arts institutions to bring the performing arts to a wider audience.

• Educational Outreach: The program offers workshops, classes, and performances for local schools and community groups, providing opportunities for young people to experience and participate in the performing arts.
• Public Performances: Many of the program’s productions are open to the public, allowing the broader community to enjoy high-quality theater and dance performances. These events often include post-show discussions and Q&A sessions with the cast and creative team.

Why Study Theater and Dance at Bates College?

Bates College Theater and Dance is a premier program that offers students an exceptional education in the performing arts. With its rigorous academic curriculum, hands-on production opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities, and dedicated faculty, the program provides a nurturing and inspiring environment for students to develop their artistic talents and achieve their professional goals. Whether you are passionate about theater, dance, or both, Bates College Theater and Dance offers a transformative experience that will prepare you for a successful and fulfilling career in the performing arts.

Academic Programs Offered at Bates College Theater and Dance

Bates College Theater and Dance offers a variety of academic programs designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the performing arts. These programs are structured to balance theoretical knowledge with practical experience, ensuring that students develop both their artistic skills and critical thinking abilities. Below is a detailed list of the academic programs offered, clearly categorized and outlined with descriptions, details, and duration.

Undergraduate Programs

Major in Theater

• Description: The Theater major at Bates College provides students with a deep understanding of the art and craft of theater. The program covers a wide range of topics, including acting, directing, design, stagecraft, and theater history. Students are encouraged to explore both classical and contemporary theater practices.
• Duration: 4 years (typically 8 semesters)
• Requirements:
  • Core courses in acting, directing, design, and theater history
  • Elective courses in specialized areas such as playwriting, stage management, and performance theory
  • Participation in mainstage productions and student-led projects
  • Senior thesis or capstone project

Minor in Theater

• Description: The Theater minor allows students to explore their interest in theater while pursuing a major in another discipline. The program offers a flexible curriculum that includes foundational courses in theater as well as opportunities for practical experience.
• Duration: 4 years (typically 8 semesters)
• Requirements:
  • Core courses in acting and theater history
  • Elective courses in areas such as directing, design, and stagecraft
  • Participation in at least one mainstage production or student-led project

Major in Dance

• Description: The Dance major at Bates College emphasizes both technical proficiency and creative expression. The program offers courses in modern dance technique, choreography, dance history, and improvisation. Students have numerous opportunities to perform and present their own work.
• Duration: 4 years (typically 8 semesters)
• Requirements:
  • Core courses in modern dance technique, choreography, and dance history
  • Elective courses in specialized areas such as ballet, jazz, and dance composition
  • Participation in dance concerts and student-led projects
  • Senior thesis or capstone project

Minor in Dance

• Description: The Dance minor provides students with a solid foundation in dance while allowing them to pursue a major in another field. The program includes courses in dance technique, choreography, and history, as well as opportunities for performance.
• Duration: 4 years (typically 8 semesters)
• Requirements:
  • Core courses in modern dance technique and dance history
  • Elective courses in areas such as choreography and improvisation
  • Participation in at least one dance concert or student-led project

Interdisciplinary Programs

Interdisciplinary Major in Theater and Dance

• Description: This interdisciplinary major allows students to combine their interests in theater and dance into a single, cohesive program. The curriculum includes courses in both disciplines, as well as opportunities for interdisciplinary projects and performances.
• Duration: 4 years (typically 8 semesters)
• Requirements:
  • Core courses in acting, modern dance technique, directing, and choreography
  • Elective courses in specialized areas such as design, stagecraft, and dance composition
  • Participation in mainstage productions, dance concerts, and interdisciplinary projects
  • Senior thesis or capstone project that integrates theater and dance

Interdisciplinary Minor in Theater and Dance

• Description: The interdisciplinary minor in Theater and Dance offers students the opportunity to explore the connections between these two art forms. The program includes foundational courses in both disciplines, as well as opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Duration: 4 years (typically 8 semesters)
• Requirements:
  • Core courses in acting and modern dance technique
  • Elective courses in areas such as directing, choreography, and design
  • Participation in at least one mainstage production, dance concert, or interdisciplinary project

Special Programs and Opportunities

Study Abroad in Theater and Dance

• Description: Bates College offers study abroad programs that allow students to explore theater and dance in an international context. These programs provide opportunities to study with renowned artists and scholars, attend performances, and gain a global perspective on the performing arts.
• Duration: Varies (typically one semester or a full academic year)
• Requirements:
  • Approval from the Theater and Dance department
  • Completion of prerequisite courses
  • Participation in program-specific activities and performances

Internships and Professional Development

• Description: The Theater and Dance program encourages students to gain practical experience through internships with professional theater companies, dance ensembles, and arts organizations. These internships provide valuable opportunities for professional development and networking.
• Duration: Varies (typically one semester or summer)
• Requirements:
  • Approval from the Theater and Dance department
  • Completion of prerequisite courses
  • Submission of internship proposal and final report

Senior Thesis or Capstone Project

• Description: All majors in Theater and Dance are required to complete a senior thesis or capstone project. This project allows students to demonstrate their artistic and scholarly achievements through a performance, choreography, design, or written thesis.
• Duration: Typically one academic year (two semesters)
• Requirements:
  • Proposal submission and approval
  • Regular meetings with faculty advisor
  • Public presentation or performance of the thesis or capstone project

Theater and Dance Coursework at Bates College

Bates College Theater and Dance offers a rich array of academic programs that cater to a wide range of interests and career goals. Whether you are passionate about theater, dance, or both, these programs provide the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to succeed in the performing arts and beyond. With a combination of rigorous coursework, hands-on production opportunities, and interdisciplinary collaboration, Bates College Theater and Dance prepares students for a lifetime of artistic and intellectual engagement.

Contact Information for Bates College Theater and Dance

Address:
Bates College Theater and Dance
Olin Arts Center
75 Russell Street
Lewiston, ME 04240
USA

Phone:
Main Office: +1 (207) 786-6161

Email:
General Inquiries: theaterdance@bates.edu
Theater Program: theater@bates.edu
Dance Program: dance@bates.edu

Website:
www.bates.edu/theater-dance

Social Media Accounts:

• Facebook: https://facebook.com/BatesTheaterDance
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/batestheaterdance
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/BatesTheatreDnc