“This represents a new opportunity for the development of our students,” says Jack Bibee, Theatre Faculty Member.

The new two-year degree program, open to everyone from experienced performers to theatre novices, is designed to provide the first two years of a bachelor’s degree in theatre. Degree candidates will gain valuable experience and training to start a career in theatre or discover all the elements that go into a production.

Program graduates will complete the general education requirements of the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum and theatre curriculum including: Introduction to Theatre, History of Comedy, Stage Make-up, Acting I, Acting II, Stagecraft, Play Directing, Survey of Drama and Practical Experience in Theatre.

“More than ever, students will be integrated into the backstage experience,” says Peter Lerohl, Technical Director. “Though this is a comprehensive program, we want to be clear: students don’t need to pursue a degree or have any theatre experience. Our 100-level theatre classes are open to anyone with an interest in theatre.”

Students who major or minor in theatre, however, can go on to complete theatre degrees at four-year colleges and universities, such as the University of Minnesota, University of Minnesota-Duluth, Hamline University, Minnesota State University at Mankato, Winona State University, the University of Colorado, the University of South Dakota, and many others.

“We are working on developing more relations with four-year institutions,” adds ARCC theatre faculty member, Scott Ford.

The Cambridge Campus hosts one production in the spring semester. The Coon Rapids Campus hosts three productions each year. All productions provide ample opportunities for involvement from acting to stagecraft, lighting and costuming to stage management and assistant directing.

For more information about the associate’s in fine arts degree in theatre or any of Anoka-Ramsey’s associate’s in fine arts degree programs, visit www.AnokaRamsey.edu/academics.