Performing Arts Programs in Colorado

Getting a Performing Arts Degree in Colorado

A Performing Arts Degree opens a world of creativity and professional training in theater, dance, music, and acting. This guide explains the diverse education paths available in Colorado, from Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) to Bachelor of Arts (BA) programs. Prospective students can explore various performing arts programs and training options while understanding admission requirements, accreditation standards, and career opportunities in the state.

Why Pursue a Performing Arts Degree in Colorado

Colorado offers a unique environment with a rich cultural scene and numerous performance venues. The state’s official website, Colorado.gov, provides further insights into its dynamic community. The performing arts scene here benefits from strong educational institutions and professional organizations that support theater, dance, and music. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook for actors, employment in these fields shows promising growth, with competitive average salaries and a positive job market across various performing arts professions.

Prerequisites for Performing Arts Programs

Prospective students should be prepared for a competitive application process. Typical prerequisites include:

  • Completion of secondary education with a competitive GPA (e.g., a minimum of 2.00 in relevant courses for some programs).
  • Auditions or interviews tailored to specific concentrations such as acting or musical theatre.
  • Submission of portfolios or evidence of prior experience in performing arts disciplines.
  • For programs like the CU Boulder BFA, auditions are scheduled in the spring for Acting and concurrently with the university application for Musical Theatre.

Accreditation and Regulatory Agencies

Ensuring that a program meets high academic and industry standards is crucial. Colorado’s performing arts programs are overseen by several accreditation bodies and regulatory agencies:

  • Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
    • Role: Provides regional accreditation ensuring academic quality.
    • Website: HLC
    • Contact: (312) 263-0456; [email protected]
  • National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST)
    • Role: Sets specialized standards for theater programs.
    • Website: NAST
    • Contact: (703) 437-0700; [email protected]
  • U.S. Department of Education
  • National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)

Typical Program Curriculum

Performing arts programs offer a blend of theoretical courses and practical training. Curricula typically cover:

  • Acting, stagecraft, and performance techniques.
  • Dance and movement studies.
  • Music performance and theory.
  • Technical theatre and production design.
  • Specialized concentrations like Musical Theatre, Design/Technology/Management, or Performance Practica.
    Programs generally span four years, with opportunities for internships and specialized work in areas such as management, technical production, or creative direction.

Performing Arts Programs in Colorado

University of Colorado Boulder

  • Programs Offered:
    • BFA in Theatre with concentrations in Acting, Design/Technology/Management, and Musical Theatre (audition required).
    • BA in Theatre, requiring 37 THTR credits, 3 dance credits, and 6 global arts credits.
  • Accreditation: The CU Boulder Theatre Program is accredited by NAST.
  • Admission Details: Audition and interview are required depending on the concentration, and a minimum 2.00 GPA is expected in theatre courses.
  • Location Highlights: Located in Boulder, Colorado—a city known for its progressive arts scene and cultural festivities.
  • Program Page: Visit the university’s official theatre program page through the school’s website.

Colorado State University

  • Program Offered: BA in Theatre with a Performance Concentration, featuring coursework in acting, stagecraft, and practicum credits.
  • Accreditation: Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
  • Admission Details: An audition with theatre faculty is required. Note that standardized test scores are not mandatory for BFA programs at CU Boulder.
  • Location Highlights: Located in Fort Collins, Colorado—a city celebrated for its vibrant cultural activities and local arts events.
  • Program Page: Explore further details on the Colorado State University official website.

Performing Arts Employment Opportunities in Colorado

Colorado’s thriving arts community offers numerous employment prospects for performing arts graduates:

These institutions provide invaluable practical experience and networking opportunities in major cities like Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins.

Professional Development and Networking

Prospective performing arts professionals in Colorado can benefit from numerous organizations and resources:

  • Colorado Theatre Guild
  • Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE)
    • Offers state-level oversight and academic planning tools.
    • Visit CDHE.
  • Colorado Creative Industries (CCI)
    • Provides grants and community support for arts education.
    • More information at CCI.

These professional networks are critical for attending events, workshops, and conferences that bolster industry connections and career growth.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of performing arts programs in Colorado varies by institution, but several financial aid options are available:

  • CU Boulder Theatre Scholarships
    • Awards based on academic merit and audition performance.
  • CSU Theatre and Dance Scholarships
    • Includes talent-based awards and work-study opportunities.
  • Colorado State Grant Program
  • For federal aid information, prospective students should refer to Federal Student Aid.

Understanding tuition fees, application deadlines, and scholarship opportunities is essential for managing the financial aspects of a performing arts education.

Career Opportunities

Graduates from performing arts programs in Colorado can pursue many career paths:

  • Theater and Stage Performance: Opportunities in acting, directing, and stage management.
  • Television and Film: Roles in film production, acting, and behind-the-scenes work.
  • Music and Dance: Careers ranging from performance to choreographic direction.
  • Internship Programs: For example, CU Boulder Theatre offers internships with regional theatres, while CSU provides a Theatre Practicum with mandatory production crew assignments.
  • Job Outlook: For detailed employment statistics and future projections for actors, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page for actors.

These pathways are reinforced by hands-on training provided through coursework and industry partnerships.

Get Started Today

Colorado offers a range of comprehensive performing arts programs designed to nurture talent and build professional careers. With strong academic training, essential industry accreditations, robust financial aid options, and a thriving cultural scene, there has never been a better time to pursue a degree in the performing arts. Prospective students are encouraged to contact their chosen schools via the provided forms on the official pages and take that essential step towards a fulfilling career in theater, dance, music, and acting.