Theatre, BA
Whether students take center stage or work behind the scenes, CBU’s theatre program cultivates their theatrical skills with classes in acting, design, and musical theatre.
Program Intro
Students in CBU’s theatre bachelor’s program take what they learn in the classroom and apply it on stage with CBU’s award-winning productions. With four productions a season, one play and one musical each semester, students have numerous opportunities to develop the skills required of the discipline.
As a university committed to The Great Commission, faith is integrated with our season selection process and theatre curriculum. Our professors are not only practicing Christians, but also active in the profession. Students receive focused attention, guidance, and encouragement from professors who care about whole-person formation.
Beyond productions and coursework, a variety of professional-training experiences await students, led by industry professionals. From master classes to internships to networking events, students can get plugged into the industry before they graduate. Our major cultivates professionals who can model Christ as they pursue their calling in the entertainment industry.
Why Study Theatre at CBU?
Develop a professional skill set
With four productions a year, two plays and two musicals, students are acquiring first-hand the skills necessary to be successful in the profession through performance and design opportunities. Our students are cultivated as actors, technicians, and designers who can collaborate with a production team to take a script from the page to the stage with professionalism.
Make lifelong friendships and thrive in community
Students in our program gather weekly for “Community Time.” During these gatherings students and faculty worship together through song, scriptural devotions, prayer, and small group discussion. This time also features guest speakers from the entertainment industry, who speak to faith integration in their specific fields.
Faculty and staff come alongside students to mentor and guide them through the creative process. As a private institution, students enjoy smaller class sizes, more focused attention from professors, and more numerous practical opportunities to apply their skills.
Perform, train, and teach in venues across the nation and around the world
Our Musical Theatre Tour group performs at schools, churches, homeless shelters, and community groups. The review is an hour long and presents an overview of the musical theatre genre from Rodgers and Hammerstein to Lin-Manuel Miranda. There are also touring educational workshops in which our students serve as co-teachers with a faculty mentor, providing training in areas such as movement, voice, and acting. There are also opportunities to study abroad and take productions to international festivals. Our alumni have performed with a variety of companies including Shakespeare by the Sea, Disney, and Off-Broadway. Many have gone on to graduate studies abroad at the Theatre Academy London, Trinity College in Ireland, and the University of Westminster in England.
What You'll Learn
- Critical Analysis
Theatre students will employ accurate analysis of dramatic structure through written and oral critique of theatrical literature and production. - History & Practice
Theatre students will demonstrate understanding of the historical development of theatrical practice. - Faith Integration
Theatre students will identify and incorporate biblical principles into theatrical practice. - Collaboration
Theatre students will model professionally competitive skills of collaboration and inclusion in the creation of unique theatrical works. - Production
Theatre students will demonstrate competency in production of performative works of art (performance, design/technical).
THE 111: Fundamentals of Stagecraft
This course offers an introduction to the basic construction methods, materials and techniques employed in the scene shop. Students will also develop skills in producing large-scale scenic painting and texturing effects through multiple in-class projects.
THE 232: Story Structure and Analysis
This course is designed to introduce the student to the skills and techniques of dramatic writing for stage and screen. Students will develop a deeper understanding of performative texts through the application of dramatic analysis, research, writing, and critical thinking.
THE 240: Drama Outreach
Drama Outreach explores the diverse applications of theatre in the real world, including youth theater programs, parachurch ministries, faith or church-based theatre, TYA (Theatre for Young Audiences), and drama therapy. Students gain practical skills, examine ethical considerations, and integrate Christian faith principles, preparing to use drama as an influential resource for connection, healing, and community engagement.
- Design for Stage and Screen
- Performance for Stage and Screen
- Musical Theatre
Zachary Bortot, M.F.A.
Associate Professor of Theatre Arts
Division Director of Theatre Arts
Office Phone: 951-552-8689
E-mail: zbortot@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: Wallace Theatre
Lee Lyons, M.F.A.
Professor of Theatre
Office Phone: 951-343-4919
E-mail: llyons@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: Wallace Theatre
I absolutely love theatre arts, and I love the effect it can have on people. There is an amazing community within the department, and the professors are absolutely fantastic. I want to perform professionally in theatre and musical theatre, and later I would like to teach and direct theatre. The theatre department is a great place for people to grow in their art as well as their faith! I have learned how to integrate my faith into my art.
Sarah Bare '21
I’ve always loved theatre and I believe it’s what God has called me to do. I like the community in this program; I've learned more about myself in my two years here than anywhere else. I hope to go to Broadway, and CBU is giving me the skills I need to succeed in a very competitive field.
Mark McMillan '19
I have always loved literature and theatre and the combination of the two seemed like the most natural option. I hope to either perform or work in costumes and/or makeup in theatre or film. The professors here truly care about your individual education and the people I have met have been so uplifting and encouraging.
Emily Feaster '19
Student Opportunities: Theatre Productions
All CBU students are encouraged to participate in our productions. Students work with faculty and staff on all aspects of production including set design, costumes, lighting and sound design, stage managing and even assistant directing. This creates a truly collaborative environment where students grow and flourish.
Career Possibilities
Theatre majors can apply their field of study to a variety of careers. Some careers listed below may require further education.
- Film Actor
- Theatre Actor
- Set Designer
- Director
- Lighting Designer
- Sound Designer
- Stage Manager
- Playwright
- Producer
- Dancer
Related Programs
Next Steps
Join our community. At CBU, you’ll be challenged to become an individual whose skills, integrity, and sense of purpose glorify God and distinguish you in the world.