About Us
What We Do
Cal Poly Pomona's Department of Theatre and New Dance awards undergraduate degrees in theatre, emphasizing theatrical production and the "doing" of theatre. At the same time, the Department offers courses in all aspects of theatre, both artistic and academic. After completing the theatre major at Cal Poly Pomona, students are prepared to begin their careers or specialized training in professional theatre, dance, themed entertainment, television or film; to go for advanced training in graduate schools; or to go into teaching. We are proud to boast alumni in numerous professional positions throughout the entertainment industry.

Why We Do It
Our Programs
The Cal Poly Pomona Department of Theatre and New Dance awards a Bachelor of Arts degree in theatre which emphasizes process and the practical experience of producing theatre. The Department follows the University’s “learn by doing” philosophy by offering practice on mainstage and studio theater productions, various workshops, and courses in all aspects of the theatre both artistic and academic. The program stresses concern for students as artists and individuals. Faculty and staff work closely with students to build a solid foundation of knowledge of both the practical and artistic aspects of theatre and dance.
The Cal Poly Pomona Department of Theatre and New Dance awards a Bachelor of Arts degree in theatre which emphasizes process and the practical experience of producing theatre. The Department follows the University’s “learn by doing” philosophy by offering practice on mainstage and studio theater productions, various workshops, and courses in all aspects of the theatre both artistic and academic. The program stresses concern for students as artists and individuals. Faculty and staff work closely with students to build a solid foundation of knowledge of both the practical and artistic aspects of theatre and dance. The design and technical production option is for students with an interest in the theatrical design areas of scenery, lighting, costumes, projection, makeup or sound; and in the production areas such as scenic or costume construction, stage and production management, or technical direction.
LEARN MORE about the Design and Technical Production Program
The Cal Poly Pomona Department of Theatre and New Dance awards a Bachelor of Arts degree in theatre which emphasizes process and the practical experience of producing theatre. The Department follows the University’s “learn by doing” philosophy by offering practice on mainstage and studio theater productions, various workshops, and courses in all aspects of the theatre both artistic and academic. The program stresses concern for students as artists and individuals. Faculty and staff work closely with students to build a solid foundation of knowledge of both the practical and artistic aspects of theatre and dance. The option for theatre in education and community engagement is available to students interested in teaching theatre in secondary schools and working with community-based theatre organizations.
LEARN MORE about the Theatre in Education and Community Engagement Program
The Acting option is designed for those with a passion for performance and a desire to refine their craft. This program emphasizes the development of strong acting techniques, voice work, and movement skills, allowing you to explore various styles and methods of acting. You will gain practical experience by participating in mainstage and studio productions. The program's "learn by doing" philosophy ensures that students are not only prepared for professional acting careers but also equipped with the skills necessary for advanced studies in acting or related fields.
The Cal Poly Pomona Department of Theatre and New Dance awards a Bachelor of Arts degree in theatre which emphasizes process and the practical experience of producing theatre. The Department follows the University’s “learn by doing” philosophy by offering practice on mainstage and studio theater productions, various workshops, and courses in all aspects of the theatre both artistic and academic. The program stresses concern for students as artists and individuals. Faculty and staff work closely with students to build a solid foundation of knowledge of both the practical and artistic aspects of theatre and dance. The dance theatre option is for students interested in a general background in theatre with a specific performance interest in dance theatre.
Students choose to minor in Theatre for a variety of reasons including artistic passion, creative outlet, and their interest in Theatre as a way to enhance many aspects of their life and career through connection, empathy, art, communication and storytelling. The Theatre Minor (24 units) allows students to take a variety of courses in areas that enrich their educational experience while connecting them to the Theatre & New Dance Department community.
The Dance Minor (23 units) is available to all students who seek to enrich their education with Dance or movement, both in practice and as a subject of cultural study. Dance minors may take a variety of courses including those that provide access to performance and choreography opportunities both on and off campus, as well as connection to the community of 六色网 students and faculty who value dance as cultural artifact and influence, and personal and artistic expression.
The global goals of our curriculum that guide our students and faculty.
Goals & Objectives
The 六色网 Department of Theatre & New Dance aims to guide students to (1) engage productivity in the collaborative process; (2) build intellectual and aesthetic understanding of the craft and technique of theatre arts; (3) develop an appreciation of and respect for the various roles/aspects inherent within the theatrical process; (4) explore the diversity of theatre and its intersection with community, culture and society; and (5) produce diverse productions that challenge students and engage the university community.

Specific Goals
Students will be able to meet the following objectives:
- 1.1 Work in collaborative/artistic ensembles; specifically enhancing skills of listening/respect towards others.
- 1.2 Possess a broad appreciation for theatre arts – in theory, performance, and production, traditional and global standpoints.
- 1.3 Exhibit a fundamental working knowledge of the basic areas of theatre art (acting, directing, design, voice, etc.)
- 1.4 Process and maintain a basic knowledge of the history, origin and tradition of theatre as an art form.
- 1.5 Articulate theatrical knowledge of the basic areas of theatre (acting, directing, design and voice etc.) in both written and oral communication forms.
Students in the acting option will be able to meet the following objectives:
- 2.1 Perform a broad spectrum of dramatic material both improvised and scripted, ranging from Realism to non-Realism, classical to contemporary.
- 2.2 Develop vocal, physical and imaginative skills to express a broad spectrum of dramatic material.
- 2.3 Review, analyze and give constructive criticism on performance.
- 2.4 Work as an ensemble/collective group.
- 2.5 Understand the rehearsal and performance process, including the relationship between the actor and the director, the actor and stage manager, actor and production crew, actor and fellow actors.
Students in the Design option will be able to meet the following objectives:2.6 Understand stage mechanics and safe operation of equipment and rigging
systems.
- 2.7 Understand and apply knowledge of scenic and costume construction techniques, scenic painting methods and lighting and sound application.
- 2.8 Understand and apply the basic principles of make up and prosthetics.
- 2.9 Know and operate the lighting and sound equipment for theatrical venues.
- 2.10 Understand and apply methods of scholarly research to the design process.
- 2.11 Communicate design concepts through visual means including rendering, model building, mechanical drafting, CAD, and computer graphic techniques.
- 2.12 Create a design portfolio and theatrical resume. Students within Playwriting will be able to meet the following objectives:
- 2.13 Write plays based upon the 10-minute form, the one-act and the full-length models.
- 2.14 Have experience in adaptation and the use of non-traditional, experimental and/or avant-garde techniques.
Students within Directing will be able to meet the following objectives:
- 2.15 Cohesively and specifically analyze a play from a directorial point of view – paying particular attention to given circumstances, environmental facts, character analysis, spine & scoring.
- 2.16 Devise a plan of action and implement a rehearsal process with student actors.
- 2.17 Form a “paper concept” on a period play – including Internet and library research.
- 2.18 Critically dissect and critique productions & written works from a directorial POV.
- 2.19 Visualize and mount a polished 10-minute play.
Students will be able to meet the following objectives:
- 3.1 Understand the evolution of the physical stage and historical staging techniques.
- 3.2 Understand historical design styles and how dramatic styles influenced production design.
- 3.3 Appreciate dramatic works from all parts of the world.
- 3.4 Demonstrate that they are familiar with a selection of historically representative plays, indicated by a demonstrable knowledge of selected plays, theatrical conventions, ideas, and theatrical movements important in the formation of our current contemporary theatrical view.
- 3.5 Clearly illuminate a particular theatrical time period that best represents our current contemporary theatrical view.
- 3.6 Understand the origins and development of American Theatre & be able to use theatre as an investigative tool in discovering American Culture.
Students will be able to meet the following objectives:4.1 Analyze a play from a design perspective, opening the students imagine to “seeing” an environment that expresses the theme and spirit of the play.
- 4.2 Analyze a play from a performance perspective, including dramatic structure, character analysis, language investigation, and integrate it within the rehearsal and performance process.
- 4.3 Analyze a play from a directorial perspective, paying particular attention to paying particular attention to given circumstances, environmental facts, character analysis, spine & scoring.
Students will be able to meet the following objectives:
- 5.1 Understand and apply the responsibilities of theatrical production personnel in the run of a production.
- 5.2 Understand and apply stage management skills that will enhance personal organization, leadership, and responsibility in a production.
- 5.3 Understand fire and safety regulations and the safe operation of back stage shifting of properties, lighting and scenery.
Students will be able to meet the following objectives:
- 6.1 Appreciate diverse theatrical cultures and non-traditional approaches to the art.
- 6.2 Understand and practice discipline and commitment to a project and respect the ideas fellow artists present in the production process.