Current Program

The Theatre program offers introductory courses in Theatre, Oral Interpretation of Literature, Acting and a course in Motion Pictures. Students enroll in these classes for personal enrichment and to meet transfer requirements. Factors that have caused a change in program within the past ten years include changes in economic conditions, college budget conditions and student interests.

Degrees and Certificates - No degrees or certificates are offered.

Personnel - At this time the department employs three part-time faculty members.

Teaching Methodologies - Lecture and some lecture/demonstration are the primary teaching methods used at this time.

Technology - No online courses are offered in the department at this time.

Equipment - There is an immediate need for computers, projectors, Internet access, and videotaping equipment.

Facilities - No room or facility has been designated for Theatre Arts classes. A Grand Theatre, which is in fairly good condition and seats up to 1,500 people, is under-utilized at this time, although it needs to be updated technologically. Rooms used for classes are not air-conditioned at this time. There is an immediate need for a computerized lab.

Future Program

In the next ten years the department will need to adapt to changes in curriculum development, technology, student academic preparation, college recruitment strategies and facilities. More acting courses will be offered and more plays produced to make use of the Grand Theatre. Enrollment in the program will likely increase at a slower rate than the overall college enrollment in both the mid term and the long term. See Program Projections.

Degrees and Certificates - The college is exploring offering a certificate program that connects the "behind the scenes" aspects of Theatre Arts with the Construction Trades program.

Personnel - See Projected Faculty and Staff Needs.

Teaching Methodologies - As online access and service based learning opportunities are made available, teaching methods will adapt to new technology.

Technology - It is expected that other delivery methods, such as online courses or interactive video, will become a significant part of the curriculum as the program grows and technology improves. Courses in the department will lend themselves well to alternative methods of delivery.

Equipment - In the next five years or so, the department must complete an evaluation of needs to update the current theatre.

Facilities - In the next five years, classrooms need to go online with Internet access and be equipped with projection devices. Office space for full-time and part-time faculty is needed.

Staff Development - Staff development activities should include faculty support and training for starting clubs and extra-curricular activities, connecting with the arts community (perhaps via service learning) and fundraising and partnering with other arts organizations.

Special Recommendation

In light of changes in facilities and technology needed to update the current theatre, the department should review the curriculum to ensure that it is geared toward local student needs and make appropriate changes. Offerings of lab classes in addition to lecture classes should be considered, based on the outcome of the curriculum review.