Theater and Dance

The Theater and Dance program at Carleton College offers students a comprehensive and dynamic exploration of the performing arts, combining rigorous academic coursework with practical performance experience. This program is designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and technical skills, enabling students to develop a deep understanding of theatrical and dance traditions from various cultures and historical periods. Students have the opportunity to engage with both theoretical and practical aspects of theater and dance, including acting, directing, choreography, stage design, lighting, costume design, and dramaturgy. The curriculum emphasizes collaborative work, encouraging students to participate in productions that serve as laboratories for experimentation and innovation. Faculty members are accomplished artists and scholars who mentor students individually, guiding them through the process of creating compelling performances and scholarly projects. The department also supports internships and off-campus opportunities that allow students to gain real-world experience in professional settings, fostering connections within the broader arts community. Students pursuing a major or minor in Theater and Dance can tailor their education to their specific interests, whether in performance, production, history, or criticism. The program aims to prepare graduates not only for careers in the arts but also for diverse roles in education, community engagement, and arts administration. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant campus arts scene, students at Carleton College can immerse themselves fully in the transformative power of theater and dance. Overall, the program cultivates imaginative, innovative, and socially conscious artists who are equipped to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world at large.

The Theater and Dance program at Carleton College offers students a comprehensive curriculum designed to foster both practical skills and critical understanding of the performing arts. Through a combination of coursework, practical training, and performance opportunities, students gain a well-rounded education in theater production, acting, dance techniques, and dramaturgy. The program encourages exploration of diverse theatrical and dance traditions, emphasizing innovative approaches and contemporary practices. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities including modern theaters, dance studios, and rehearsal spaces, enabling hands-on experience in staging, choreography, and performance. The curriculum integrates theater history, dramaturgy, script analysis, and design, providing students with a deep contextual understanding of the art form. In addition, students participate in productions both as performers and crew members, allowing for experiential learning and collaboration across disciplines. Faculty members are experienced professionals dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a creative and inclusive environment. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork skills, preparing graduates for careers in theater, dance, education, or further graduate study. Opportunities for internships, community engagement, and interdisciplinary projects enhance the educational experience, connecting students with the broader arts community. Whether pursuing a career in performance, direction, choreography, or arts administration, students in the Theater and Dance program graduate with a versatile skill set and a deep appreciation for the transformative power of the performing arts.

Theater and Dance major at Carleton College requires students to complete a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop both practical skills and theoretical understanding of the performing arts. Students must engage in a combination of studio courses, which focus on acting, movement, choreography, and design elements, alongside academic courses that explore theater history, dramatic literature, and critical analysis. The program typically mandates participation in production work, encouraging hands-on experience in directing, stage management, technical theater, and performance. Students are expected to attend and critique performances, participate in workshops, and possibly undertake internships or independent projects to deepen their engagement with the discipline.

A core component involves completing introductory courses in acting, theater history, and dance fundamentals, progressing into more advanced courses such as advanced acting techniques, dance composition, script analysis, and theater production. The program emphasizes collaborative work, requiring students to participate in multiple productions both on and off-stage to hone their teamwork and communication skills. Additionally, students may choose electives that align with their interests, such as costume design, playwriting, voice training, or theater management, to tailor their educational experience.

To graduate with a major in Theater and Dance, students must also complete a senior project or capstone experience, demonstrating their mastery of performance or scholarly research. The curriculum encourages exploration across disciplines, and students are often advised to supplement their major coursework with courses in related fields such as literature, history, or studio arts. The program aims to produce graduates who are creatively skilled, historically informed, and equipped for careers in performing arts, education, or related fields.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Theatre and Dance program at Carleton College offers a comprehensive range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees and associated costs are detailed on the college’s official website, providing transparency for prospective and current students. Carleton College is a private liberal arts institution known for its commitment to accessible education. To assist students in managing the financial burden, the college provides robust financial aid programs, including need-based grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. The college is dedicated to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, ensuring that talented individuals from diverse backgrounds can attend without undue financial hardship.

Students are encouraged to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile to be considered for federal, state, and institutional aid programs. Carleton also offers merit-based scholarships that recognize academic achievement, talent, and leadership qualities, which are awarded upon admission or during the scholarship renewal process. Additionally, students can explore external funding sources such as private scholarships and community grants to supplement their financing plans.

The college’s Office of Financial Aid provides personalized counseling to help students understand their options, complete necessary paperwork, and develop sustainable payment plans. For students pursuing Theatre and Dance, specific scholarships and grants may be available based on talent and contribution to the program, though detailed information should be obtained directly from the college’s financial aid office or program-specific resources. Carleton College also emphasizes the importance of work-study programs, enabling students to earn income while gaining valuable experience related to their field of study.

In summary, Carleton College offers extensive financial support mechanisms designed to make Theatre and Dance education accessible and affordable, fostering an environment where financial considerations do not hinder students from engaging fully with their academic and artistic pursuits.

The Theater and Dance program at Carleton College offers students a comprehensive education in the performing arts, emphasizing both practical skills and theoretical understanding. The curriculum encompasses diverse areas such as acting, directing, stage design, dance techniques, and dramaturgy, enabling students to develop a well-rounded perspective on theater production and performance. Students have the opportunity to participate in numerous productions throughout their academic career, providing hands-on experience in staging, performance, and technical theater. The program encourages collaboration across disciplines, fostering a creative environment where students can experiment with various artistic approaches and methodologies.

Faculty members are experienced practitioners and scholars dedicated to mentoring students and guiding their artistic growth. The department emphasizes experiential learning, critically engaging students with the history, theory, and cultural significance of theater and dance. In addition to coursework, students can participate in workshops, seminars, and internships that connect classroom learning with professional practices. The program promotes diversity and inclusion, aiming to explore a broad spectrum of theatrical traditions and contemporary issues within the arts.

Career pathways for graduates include professional theater, dance companies, arts administration, education, and further academic study in theater and dance disciplines. Carleton’s location and network of regional arts organizations provide valuable opportunities for internships and community engagement. The Department of Theater and Dance at Carleton College is committed to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and effective communication—skills that are essential for success in the performing arts and related fields.