Valdosta State University Theatre & Dance

The Department of Communication Arts at Valdosta State University is a multidisciplinary department with professional programs that lead to a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) degree with majors in Mass Media; Speech Communication with emphases in general speech communication, intercultural organizational communication, and public relations; Theatre with tracks in performance, production, and musical

theatre; and Dance. The department also stresses the importance of critical thinking and an appreciation for diverse cultural perspectives. The theatre major at VSU is a vibrant BFA program, preparing students for professional careers and graduate study in theatre. VSU is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST). The major offers three areas of emphasis: theatre performance, theatre production, and musical theatre. Each emphasis is grounded in the history, theory, and methods of the discipline. Since learning is most profound during application, the theatre major’s program of study provides students with extensive practical experience and varied opportunities to develop their talents, skills, and knowledge base. Majors are provided with an advising check list to manage their own academic careers. First offered in 2007, the dance major in the Department of Communication Arts is the newest majors in the theatre and dance program. It is also the only BFA dance degree program in south Georgia. Students pursuing a BFA in dance learn the theory and performance of dance in areas such as ballet, modern, tap, jazz, and social dance as well as the history of dance, choreography, and dance education. The program of study provides a rigorous and well-rounded foundation in dance. Students graduating with a degree in dance are prepared to enter the profession as performers, choreographers, and educators, or for graduate study in dance. Students intending to pursue a B.F.A. in Dance and those intending to pursue a B.F.A. in Theatre on the musical theatre track must audition for the faculty committee for the purpose of admission.