Performing Arts Programs in Norfolk, Virginia
Getting a Performing Arts Degree in Norfolk, Virginia
A Performing Arts Degree prepares students to excel in theater, dance, music, and acting. In Norfolk, Virginia, prospective art educators and creative professionals can choose from diverse educational paths that blend practical training with theoretical study. Degree programs in performing arts typically offer a Bachelor of Arts in Drama & Theatre, a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre with performance and design/technology tracks, as well as specialized programs in music and advanced visual studies. Coursework includes theater history, voice, movement, acting methods, stage design, and technical theater skills, with opportunities to gain hands-on experience through partnerships such as the NSU Theatre Company and internships with organizations like the Virginia Stage Company.
About Norfolk, Virginia
Norfolk, Virginia, is a historic maritime city known for its rich cultural life and active performing arts scene. The city’s official website, available at norfolk.gov (HTTP Status 200), provides additional local information and resources. Norfolk’s diverse neighborhoods and landmarks contribute to a thriving environment for creative education and performance opportunities.
Performing Arts Degree Programs in Norfolk, Virginia
Local institutions offer comprehensive programs in performing arts. Below is a list of three schools in or near Norfolk with performing arts offerings:
Norfolk State University (NSU) – Norfolk, VA
- Program: Bachelor of Arts in Drama & Theatre, Bachelor of Music, and Master of Fine Arts in Visual Studies
- Emphases: Performance or Design & Technology for Drama & Theatre; Music Education or Media for Bachelor of Music
- Curriculum Highlights: Coursework includes acting, directing, stage management, play analysis, and technical theater, with NSU Theatre Company involvement for performance tracks.
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Address & Neighborhood: 701 E. College Ave, Norfolk, VA 23504 – Located in a college-centered area of Norfolk
- Program Link: NSU Drama & Theatre
Old Dominion University (ODU) – Norfolk, VA
- Program: Bachelor of Arts in Theatre
- Tracks: Performance or Design/Technology with a focus on directing, producing, and technical theater
- Curriculum Highlights: Includes theater history, voice, movement, acting techniques, stage design, and technical production; offers internships at organizations like the Virginia Stage Company.
- Admission Requirements: Audition for performance tracks and portfolio review for design/technology tracks
- Address & Neighborhood: 4500 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23529 – Situated in the Larchmont area of Norfolk
- Program Link: ODU Theatre
Norfolk Community College (NCC) – Norfolk, VA
- Program: Performing Arts and Creative Expression courses
- Program Overview: While detailed degree offerings in performing arts may vary, Norfolk Community College provides coursework aimed at building creative skills and performance techniques. Prospective students should contact the college for further information on specific courses and degree pathways.
- Address & Neighborhood: 2500 E 6th St, Norfolk, VA 23508 – Located in Downtown Norfolk
- Program Link: Norfolk Community College
Performing Arts Opportunities in Norfolk, Virginia
Norfolk’s performing arts scene offers numerous opportunities for practical experience and networking with established companies. Key organizations include:
Virginia Stage Company
- A professional theater company frequently involved in internships for ODU students.
- Offers performance and audition opportunities.
- Location: Based in downtown Norfolk; check the audition and performance details on their official website.
- Website: Virginia Stage Company
Attucks Theatre
- A historic venue that hosts a variety of live performances including theatrical productions, dance, and music.
- Location: 112 E. 36th St, Norfolk, VA 23504, Downtown Norfolk
- Website: Attucks Theatre
Norfolk Contemporary Art Center
- An organization that presents exhibitions, performances, and special events relevant to the visual and performing arts.
- Location: Situated in a central Norfolk neighborhood
- Website: Norfolk Contemporary Art Center
Prerequisites for Performing Arts Programs
Typical prerequisites for enrolling in a performing arts program in Norfolk include the following:
- Performance Emphases: An audition is required for programs at NSU and ODU.
- Design/Technology Emphases: A portfolio review is required, particularly for ODU’s design tracks.
- General Admission: No explicit minimum GPA or specific educational prerequisites are uniformly required for undergraduate programs.
Career Opportunities with a Performing Arts Degree
Graduates with a Performing Arts Degree can pursue multiple career paths in the creative industry, including roles as actors, directors, producers, technical theater professionals, music educators, and media industry specialists. Employment opportunities can be found in local theaters, film and television production companies, and educational institutions. Professional development may also be enhanced through internships—such as those offered by the Virginia Stage Company—and further graduate study programs (e.g., the M.F.A. in Visual Studies at NSU). For detailed industry outlook and career statistics, refer to the job outlook page for Actors on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
Get Started Today
This comprehensive guide demonstrates that Norfolk, Virginia offers rich educational and practical opportunities for individuals seeking a Performing Arts Degree. With accredited institutions, diverse curricula, and a dynamic local performing arts scene, aspiring art educators and creative professionals are well-supported in their academic and career journeys. Interested students should explore how these programs can help launch their creative careers by contacting the schools directly through the available inquiry forms.