Performing Arts Programs in Atlanta, Georgia

Getting a Performing Arts Degree in Atlanta, Georgia

A Performing Arts Degree offers students extensive training in areas such as theater, dance, music, and acting. In Atlanta, Georgia, aspiring artists can pursue degrees such as the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theater Studies or Theater and Performance, as well as a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Theatre. These programs provide various specializations including playwriting, technical theatre/design (covering stagecraft, costume, set, lighting, and sound), and performance (acting, directing, ensemble work). For example, Emory University offers a BA in Theater Studies with opportunities to cross-register for playwriting courses with the English/Creative Writing department, while Spelman College emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach with a mandatory production lab and audition process. Brenau University’s BFA in Theatre is highly competitive, accepting only 15 students annually, and features collaboration with the Gainesville Theatre Alliance.

Admission requirements vary by institution. Emory University does not specify explicit audition or portfolio submissions for its Theater Studies major, whereas Spelman College requires mandatory auditions and encourages internship participation. Brenau University maintains competitive enrollment standards for its BFA programs and emphasizes practical, hands-on experience. Core curriculum components include courses in acting, drama history, production creation, technical theatre/design, and a range of elective courses at advanced levels.

About Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta is a major cultural and educational hub in the southeastern United States. Known for its dynamic arts scene and historical landmarks, Atlanta offers a rich environment for creative professionals. The city’s official website can be accessed at atlantaga.gov. Neighborhoods such as Druid Hills, Midtown, and West End contribute to the city’s thriving performing arts community. Additionally, regulatory bodies for arts and education in Atlanta and Fulton County, as well as at the state and federal levels, currently have no active URLs or available contact details.

Performing Arts Degree Programs in Atlanta, Georgia

Aspiring performing artists in Atlanta have access to several highly regarded institutions:

  1. Emory University – Theater Studies

    • Address: 201 Dowman Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322 (located in the Druid Hills area)
    • Programs & Specializations: BA in Theater Studies with options for playwriting (cross-listed with English/Creative Writing) and technical theatre/design courses covering stagecraft, costume, set, lighting, and sound.
    • Curriculum Highlights: Courses include acting, history of drama, production creation, and a host of matching electives.
    • More Information: Emory University Theater Studies

  2. Spelman College – Theatre and Performance

    • Address: 350 Spelman Ln SW, Atlanta, GA 30314 (situated in a culturally rich area of Atlanta)
    • Programs & Specializations: BA in Theater and Performance emphasizing interdisciplinary and performance studies with strong production lab components.
    • Admission & Curriculum: Mandatory auditions are required along with participation in multiple productions; the program entails 40 credit hours, including a year-long Production Lab and elective courses.
    • More Information: Spelman College Theatre and Performance

  3. Brenau University – Theatre Program

    • Address: Located in Gainesville, GA (approximately 45 miles north of Atlanta)
    • Programs & Specializations: Offers both BFA and BA in Theatre through a competitive process that accepts 15 students annually for the BFA program.
    • Curriculum Highlights: Students benefit from a close collaboration with the Gainesville Theatre Alliance and have access to facilities such as Pearce Auditorium and Black Box Theatre.
    • More Information: Brenau University Theatre

Performing Arts Opportunities in Atlanta

Atlanta’s performing arts scene extends beyond academic programs to a rich network of theaters, dance companies, and music venues:

  • The Fox Theatre

    • A landmark venue located at 660 Peachtree St NW, Atlanta, GA 30308, offering a diverse range of live performances.
    • Website: Fox Theatre

  • Alliance Theatre

    • Situated in the heart of Atlanta, Alliance Theatre provides professional theater productions and community engagement.
    • Website: Alliance Theatre

  • Atlanta Ballet

    • A premier dance company that presents innovative and classical ballet productions, enriching Atlanta’s cultural landscape.
    • Website: Atlanta Ballet

  • Spelman College Theatre and Performance

Additionally, Brenau University’s collaboration with the Gainesville Theatre Alliance provides further performance opportunities, though this venue is located outside Atlanta.

Prerequisites for Performing Arts Programs

Prospective students should prepare for the following common prerequisites:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Audition Requirements:
    • Spelman College mandates auditions for entry into its Theatre and Performance program.
    • Emory University does not specify explicit audition requirements for its Theater Studies major.
  • Competitive Acceptance:
    • Programs such as the BFA at Brenau University accept only a limited number of students annually.
  • Portfolio submissions or entrance exams may be required by certain programs depending on the discipline and specialization.

Career Opportunities with a Performing Arts Degree

Graduates with a Performing Arts Degree can explore numerous career paths. Options include acting, directing, stage management, choreography, production design, and roles in film, television, and musical performance. Many professionals also join unions and organizations that support creative rights and professional development. For career information and job outlook specifically for actors, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page for Actors.

Get Started Today

With a wealth of programs, performance opportunities, and industry connections, Atlanta is an ideal place to pursue a Performing Arts Degree. Take the first step toward transforming your artistic passion into a professional career by reaching out to your preferred school today and exploring application options through their contact forms.