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Performing Arts Program

Clark State offers two associate of arts degree programs in theatre both developed in conjunction with the Performing Arts Center - technical theatre and performing arts. One of the greatest strengths of both of these programs is that students receive hands-on experience working as technical crew for all of the events that take place at the Center, experience with building sets, and the opportunity to perform in Clark State theatrical productions and local theatre organizations. Students in both concentrations will enroll in the associate of arts program and take approximately 30 hours in theatre courses.

The first program option is an associate of arts degree with a technical theatre concentration. This program focuses on stagecraft, lighting and sound. Students who enroll in this program will be prepared for entry-level technical careers at the end of two years of full-time study, although some students may choose to transfer to university programs with a technical focus. Other opportunities for technical internships exist in many different areas including business/corporate theatre, the opera, the ballet, outdoor drama, rural theatre, traditional theatre and theme parks. Graduates of this program have worked for a variety of companies, ranging from production stage manager of the Human Race Theatre Company in Dayton to projectionist for the closing ceremonies of the Winter Olympics in Utah.

The second program option is an associate of arts degree with a performing arts concentration. This program focuses on acting, voice, theatre history, etc. These students will most likely transfer to university programs with a performance focus. Performance students are encouraged to audition for community and professional theatre organizations. While some graduates are currently working as actors, others have chosen to transfer to colleges throughout the country, including New York University, Wright State University and The Ohio State University.

Work experiences in the Performing Arts Center often serves as a springboard for entry-level employment. Students should save all drawings, designs, renderings, drafting, paintings, sketches, programs, photographs, etc. for their portfolio and should also be prepared to work irregular hours, weekends and in a variety of locations.

Theatre Department Past Productions (PDF).

Please visit the theatre arts program on Clark State's web site for more academic information on the courses we offer. You can also contact Theresa Abshear, director of the Theatre Arts Department at the following address and phone number:

Theresa Abshear, Director
937-328-3880

Sue Thompson, Administrative Assistant
937-328-8059

Theatre Arts Department
Clark State Community College
P.O. Box 570
Springfield, OH 45501-0570

(Office located at the Performing Arts Center)

Clark State Performing Arts Center, 300 South Fountain Avenue, Springfield, OH 45506
Ticket Office: 937.328.3874 Administrative Office: 937.328.3841