Performing Arts Programs in Sacramento, California

Getting a Performing Arts Degree in Sacramento, California

A Performing Arts Degree offers comprehensive training in fields such as Theater, Dance, Music, and Acting through a variety of educational paths. Prospective students can choose between Bachelor of Arts programs, specialized majors, or interdisciplinary degrees that combine performance with technical production skills. These degree programs are designed to offer practical training, theoretical study, and opportunities to work with professionals in real-world settings.

Sacramento’s higher education landscape includes institutions like Sacramento State and UC Davis that provide robust curricula, extensive technical training, and exposure to professional performance environments. In addition, local colleges such as Sacramento City College offer performing arts courses for those interested in further exploring creative careers in acting, theatre, and music.

About Sacramento, California

Sacramento, California’s state capital, is a dynamic urban center known for its rich cultural diversity and extensive arts scene. The city features well-known neighborhoods such as Midtown and Downtown where community theaters, dance companies, and music venues flourish. For more detailed local information, visit the city’s official website.

Sacramento also serves as a gateway to broader artistic opportunities in Northern California, linking local performance spaces with statewide educational and professional resources.

Performing Arts Degree Programs in Sacramento, California

Below are three institutions offering Performing Arts programs and courses in or near Sacramento:

1. Sacramento State BA in Theatre

   • Address: 6000 J St, Sacramento, CA 95819
   • Neighborhood: Located near the College Greens area
   • Program Details:
     • Focuses on acting, voice, movement, design, and multicultural theatre.
     • Curriculum:
       • Lower Division: 18 units including theatre history, acting, stagecraft, and lighting.
       • Upper Division: 24 units covering script analysis, directing, and practicum courses.
       • Specializations: Electives in voice/movement II, musical theatre, Shakespeare acting, and multicultural puppetry.
       • Capstone: Senior production course (THEA 190).
     • Accreditation: Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST).
     • More Information: Sacramento State Theatre Program

2. Sacramento City College Performing Arts Program

   • Address: 6900 E St, Sacramento, CA 95822
   • Neighborhood: Situated in North Sacramento
   • Program Details:
     • Offers a range of courses in theatre, dance, and music performance, providing a solid foundation in the performing arts for students at various skill levels.
     • More Information: Visit the Sacramento City College official website for details on current courses and enrollment procedures.

3. UC Davis Theatre and Dance (Approximately 15 miles from Sacramento)

   • Address: 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616
   • Neighborhood: Central Davis area
   • Program Details:
     • Combines performance, design, directing, and technical production with a strong emphasis on hands-on production involvement and collaboration with professionals.
     • Provides opportunities for internships and international study through global learning programs.
     • More Information: UC Davis Theatre and Dance

Performing Arts Opportunities in Sacramento

Sacramento is home to a variety of performance venues and organizations that contribute to its thriving creative scene:

• Sacramento Theatre Company

  • Overview: Offers a broad repertoire of plays and live performances, providing residents with engaging theatre experiences.
  • Neighborhood: Typically active in the Midtown area.
  • Website: Sacramento Theatre Company

• B Street Theatre

  • Overview: Renowned for innovative productions and community-focused performances, it serves as a hub for local actors and directors.
  • Neighborhood: Located within Midtown Sacramento.
  • Website: B Street Theatre

• Sacramento Music Circus

  • Overview: Presents musical and theatrical performances in an outdoor setting, merging the liveliness of music with theatrical expression.
  • Neighborhood: Situated in a well-frequented area, it attracts artists and audiences alike.
  • Website: (Confirm the official site by searching for Sacramento Music Circus opportunities.)

These organizations regularly host auditions, workshops, and performances that provide invaluable real-world experience and networking opportunities for graduates.

Prerequisites for Performing Arts Programs

Most Performing Arts programs require students to meet several prerequisites:

• Educational Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent is mandatory.
• Minimum Grade Requirements: For instance, Sacramento State requires a minimum grade of “C-” in courses applied to the major.
• Audition Requirements: While Sacramento State does not list explicit audition requirements, many programs may require participation in college productions or submission of a portfolio.
• Entrance Exams/Portfolio: Some programs, such as UC Davis Theatre and Dance, require evidence of active participation in productions and technical crews from the first year.

It is advisable for prospective students to check each institution’s website for detailed admission criteria.

Career Opportunities with a Performing Arts Degree

Graduates with a Performing Arts Degree have various career paths available to them across film, television, theater, and live performance sectors. Common career opportunities include roles as actors, directors, lighting/set designers, stage managers, and educators.

• Potential Employers and Professional Organizations:
  • Local theaters such as Sacramento Theatre Company and B Street Theatre are leading employers.
  • Membership in professional organizations like the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST) can enhance career prospects.
  • For detailed job statistics, refer to the job outlook for Actors on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

Sacramento’s cultural landscape provides ample opportunities to launch a successful career in the performing arts.

Get Started Today

The journey to a rewarding career in the performing arts begins with education and training. Sacramento offers a range of degree programs, performance opportunities, and industry connections designed to empower aspiring artists. Consider exploring a program that aligns with your creative goals, and contact the schools directly for personalized information through the forms on their pages. Taking the first step today could open the door to a lifelong passion for the performing arts.

Additional State-Specific and Regulatory Information

• Official State Arts and Education Regulatory Bodies:

  • California State University System: Oversees public higher education institutions, including Sacramento State. Visit the California State University website.
  • University of California System: Manages UC Davis and other research universities. Visit the University of California website.

• Types of Degrees Available:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Theatre (Sacramento State) focuses on a variety of performance and design disciplines.
  • Theatre and Dance Major (UC Davis) offers an interdisciplinary approach that integrates performance, technical production, and global learning opportunities.

• Accreditation and Curriculum Details:

  • Sacramento State’s BA in Theatre involves core components such as lower and upper division courses, specializations, and a capstone senior production course (THEA 190).
  • UC Davis emphasizes active production involvement and internships for holistic creative training.

• Professional Organizations: Membership in organizations like the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST) can provide networking and career support.

This comprehensive information ensures that prospective students are well-equipped to pursue a Performing Arts Degree in Sacramento, California, with a deep understanding of available programs, prerequisites, and career opportunities.