Getting a Performing Arts Degree in Wichita, Kansas

A Performing Arts Degree opens doors to careers in Theater, Dance, Music, Acting, and more. This guide details the process of earning a Performing Arts degree in Wichita, Kansas, and explores various education paths—including Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, and specialized certificate programs. Prospective students will learn about different curricula, from core dance technique and choreography to vocal technique and theatrical arts, and understand how local institutions prepare graduates for dynamic careers in the performing arts.

About Wichita, Kansas

Wichita, Kansas is the largest city in the state and a dynamic hub for creative arts. Known for its rich history and diverse neighborhoods, Wichita boasts numerous cultural landmarks and performance spaces in its downtown and surrounding areas. For more information about city services and community events, visit the City of Wichita official website.

Performing Arts Degree Programs in Wichita, Kansas

The following local institutions offer high-quality Performing Arts degree programs:

1. Wichita State University School of Performing Arts

   • Programs Offered: BA/BFA in Dance, Certificates in Choreography, Commercial Dance, and Dance and Digital Performance.
   • Curriculum Highlights: Core courses in dance technique, choreography, and performance are combined with specializations that prepare students for collaborative work in dance, theatre, and music theatre.
   • Admission Requirements: Auditions are typically required, along with portfolio reviews for specializations.
   • Address & Neighborhood: 1845 Fairmount Ave, Wichita, KS 67260 – Located in Downtown Wichita.
   • Website: School of Performing Arts

2. Friends University

   • Programs Offered: Theatre Arts and Communication programs that integrate performance, production, and creative studies.
   • Campus Details: Offering a well-rounded education in the dramatic arts, Friends University provides students with opportunities to engage in acting, script analysis, and stage production.
   • Admission & Curriculum Requirements: Similar to other BFA programs, auditions and portfolio submissions are expected to assess creative potential.
   • Address & Neighborhood: 201 S Grove St, Wichita, KS 67202 – Centrally located near Wichita’s cultural districts.
   • Website: Friends University

3. University of Kansas (Lawrence)

   • Programs Offered: BFA in Theatre and Voice and MA in Theatre and Performance Studies.
   • Curriculum Highlights: The BFA program includes courses in vocal technique, diction, and performance recitals (junior and senior recitals are required), while the MA program prepares students for doctoral studies or leadership roles in the arts.
   • Admission Requirements: Auditions are mandatory for vocal performance programs, with additional performance recitals.
   • Address & Neighborhood: 1450 Jayhawk Blvd, Lawrence, KS 66045 – Located in Lawrence’s downtown area, approximately 160 miles from Wichita.
   • Website: KU Theatre and Voice

Performing Arts Opportunities in Wichita, Kansas

Wichita offers numerous venues and organizations that provide valuable performance and audition opportunities for emerging artists:

• Orpheum Theatre

  • Description: A historic performance venue in Downtown Wichita hosting a variety of plays, musicals, and concerts.
  • Address: 300 N Main St, Wichita, KS 67202.
  • Website: Orpheum Theatre

• Wichita Symphony Orchestra

  • Description: An esteemed institution offering orchestral performances that contribute to the musical landscape of the region.
  • Website: Wichita Symphony Orchestra

• Wichita Community Theatre

  • Description: A community-focused organization that produces local theatre productions and provides regular audition opportunities for local talent.
  • Address: 201 N Central Ave, Wichita, KS 67203.
  • Website: Wichita Community Theatre

Prerequisites for Performing Arts Programs

Students seeking a Performing Arts degree in Wichita should be prepared for rigorous admissions processes that typically include:

• Educational Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent, with some programs offering advanced placement options.
• Audition Requirements: Live performances or recorded auditions are standard, especially for programs like the BFA in Dance at Wichita State University or the BFA in Theatre and Voice at the University of Kansas.
• Portfolio Submissions: For design, choreography, or technical specializations, applicants might need to submit a portfolio.
• Entrance Exams/Recitals: Specific programs may require additional assessments such as junior and senior recitals.

Career Opportunities with a Performing Arts Degree

Graduates with a Performing Arts degree have a wide range of career paths:

• Theater, Dance, and Music Performance: Roles as actors, dancers, choreographers, and musicians.
• Technical Theatre: Careers in stage production, lighting, sound design, and set construction.
• Arts Education: Teaching positions in schools and community art programs.
• Film and Television: Opportunities in acting, directing, and production.
  Additionally, professional organizations and unions in Kansas, such as those for technical theatre specialists and performers, can provide further career support and networking opportunities. For further insights on job prospects in acting, please visit the Job Outlook for Actors.

Get Started Today

Exploring a Performing Arts degree in Wichita, Kansas, offers a pathway to creative fulfillment and professional success. Prospective students are encouraged to contact their chosen schools directly through the inquiry or contact forms available on the institution’s website. Begin your journey by researching the programs, preparing for auditions, and taking the first step toward an education that embraces both artistry and professional development.