Theatre

Welcome to the Barton Theatre Department!  

You are in for exciting times on the Barton stage, both in front of the lights and behind the scenes.  Develop a broad and rich knowledge of the theatre by studying acting, directing, dramatic literature, history, technology and design. Learn and create in a diverse environment as you integrate your talent with the knowledge and skills you gain here.  Barton’s theatre instructors and staff members possess a great depth of professional experience and seek to help you meet your individual educational goals in a friendly and personable way.

Theatre is beneficial for everyone. While not everyone who studies theatre desires to dedicate their lives to art, the skills acquired while studying theatre can be advantageous to many areas of your personal and professional life.

• Oral Communication Skills - Acting onstage teaches you how to be comfortable speaking in front of large audiences. Working as part of a technical crew enhances your ability to communicate your ideas effectively to the team.
• Creative Problem-Solving Abilities - Acting, directing, and technical theatre work are excellent ways to learn how to think on your feet, identify problems, evaluate a range of possible solutions, and problem solve using the tools available.
• Time-Management Skills - Theatre teaches you to use your time effectively. Juggling classes, rehearsal time and independent work forces the theatre student to organize her/his time in order to maximize productivity.

About the Barton Program

• Dedicated faculty at a supportive institution
• Four theatrical productions per season
• Student employment opportunities
• Student directing opportunities
• Meet like-minded creative people
• Associated Degree in Theatre Arts
• Generous scholarship opportunities

Careers

People who become actors, producers, and directors follow many paths to employment. The most important qualities employers look for are creative instincts and the intellectual capacity to perform. The best way to prepare for a career as an actor, especially in the theatre, is through formal dramatic training. Some options for practice in the field are as follows:

• Actor
• Hair/Make-up
• Instructor of Performing Arts
• Lighting Technician
• Costume Technician
• Audio/Visual Technician
• Producing
• Set Construction
• Stage Manager
• Wardrobe