Whether students take center stage or stay behind the scenes, the theatre arts program cultivates their theatrical skills with classes in acting, design and theatre history. What students learn in the classroom they apply in our award-winning productions. Since faith is integrated into the curriculum, our program produces professionals who model Christ in the theatre world.
Make lifelong friendships and thrive in community
Our program gathers weekly for Community Time. During these times the students and
faculty worship together in song, scriptural devotions, prayer and times of sharing.
We use this time to invite Christian theatre professionals, two or three times each
semester, to share their experiences. 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.
Perform in venues around the world
We have a musical theatre touring group, which is a small audition group of students
who perform at schools, churches, homeless shelters and community groups. The show
is between 45 minutes to an hour long and gives an overview of the musical theatre
genre from Rodgers and Hammerstein to Lin-Manuel Miranda. Alumni have performed in
Shakespeare by the Sea, the Disney Cruise Line, children’s theatres, and Off-Broadway
theatres, and have studied abroad at the Theatre Academy London, Trinity College in
Ireland, and the University of Westminster in England.
This course is designed to introduce the student to the skills of dramatic analysis, theatrical research, writing, and critical thinking.
Students will practice the craft by presenting in-depth research and script analysis and directing scene work.
This laboratory class provides theatre students with a place to practice audition skills and create a repertoire of audition pieces.
Students who graduate with a B.A. in Theatre will be able to:
As you make decisions about college, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.
Apply today! When you complete and submit your application to CBU, a friendly and knowledgeable admissions counselor will guide you through the admissions process and all the necessary steps to become a Lancer.
"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, 2019
"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, 2021
"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, 2019
I’m a producer, actor, playwright and director. Professionally, I have worked and performed for a number of theatre companies and Off-Broadway and Off-Off Broadway. I’m the founding artistic director of New Threads Theatre Company, a Southern California based ensemble dedicated to telling stories that start inclusive conversations. I’m dedicated to exploring the intersection of the Christian faith and theatre.
I’m a producer, actor, playwright and director. Professionally, I have worked and performed for a number of theatre companies and Off-Broadway and Off-Off Broadway. I’m the founding artistic director of New Threads Theatre Company, a Southern California based ensemble dedicated to telling stories that start inclusive conversations. I’m dedicated to exploring the intersection of the Christian faith and theatre.
8432 Magnolia Avenue
Riverside, CA 92504
John Pate, Chair
Patty VanBuskirk, Department Secretary
(951) 343-4493
calbaptist.edu/communication-arts
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Communication Studies, B.A.
Production Design, B.A.
Film, B.A.