Performing Arts Programs in Madison, Wisconsin

Getting a Performing Arts Degree in Madison, Wisconsin

Pursuing a Performing Arts degree in Madison, Wisconsin offers diverse education paths in Theater, Dance, Music, and Acting. A Performing Arts degree encompasses rigorous training through degree programs designed to foster creative skills alongside technical knowledge. Students may choose various specializations, including acting, design, stage management, directing, and theatre technology. Institutions offer both Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees—as seen in the Theatre and Drama program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison—and master’s programs that provide advanced training in performance and production.

Madison’s education system benefits from oversight by several regulatory bodies. At the city level, the City of Madison Planning Department analyzes demand, facilities, and funding for the performing arts. At the state level, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) ensures adherence to educational standards. On the federal side, the U.S. Department of Education and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) guide higher education accreditation and arts funding. For accreditation standards, potential students may also review the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST) directory.

About Madison, Wisconsin

Madison is the capital city of Wisconsin, known for its rich cultural scene and historic neighborhoods. The city seamlessly blends a vibrant academic environment at the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a dynamic arts community. Local landmarks include the Capitol Square and the University District, both hubs for artistic and cultural enrichment. For more information on municipal initiatives and planning, visit the City of Madison official website.

Performing Arts Degree Programs in Madison, Wisconsin

Madison is home to several institutions offering comprehensive Performing Arts programs. Below is a selection of three key schools providing excellent training and coursework in Theater, Dance, Music, and Acting:

  1. University of Wisconsin-Madison

    • Address: 500 Lincoln Drive, Madison, WI 53706
    • Neighborhood: University Area
    • Programs Offered:
      • Bachelor of Science (BS) in Theatre and Drama, including an Acting Option that requires an audition after core prerequisite courses.
      • Master’s programs in various aspects of performing arts.
    • Program Details: The curriculum covers core courses such as acting, design, playwriting, and theatre history, complemented by performance and production opportunities through university productions like University Theatre.
    • Website: UW-Madison Theatre and Drama Program

  2. Viterbo University

    • Address: 800 Columbus Blvd, Madison, WI 53715
    • Neighborhood: South Madison near downtown
    • Programs Offered: Theatre and Music programs; designed to blend liberal arts with focused training in performing arts disciplines.
    • Program Details: Viterbo University offers courses that emphasize performance skills and theory, with opportunities to engage in productions and workshops.
    • Website: Viterbo University

  3. Edgewood College

    • Address: 425 W Wilson Street, Madison, WI 53711
    • Neighborhood: Downtown Madison
    • Programs Offered: A liberal arts curriculum with concentrated studies in theatre and performing arts.
    • Program Details: The college integrates performance opportunities and creative training into its programs. Although specific program pages are not provided, Edgewood College supports a range of performing arts courses within its academic offerings.
    • Website: Edgewood College

Performing Arts Opportunities in Madison, Wisconsin

Madison boasts a variety of venues and organizations that provide ongoing opportunities for practical training and professional exposure in the performing arts:

  • Bartell Theatre

    • Address: 26 N Carroll Street, Madison, WI 53703
    • Neighborhood: Downtown/Capitol Square area
    • Overview: As one of the oldest operating theaters in the region, Bartell Theatre hosts a range of live performances and auditions. Visitors can explore performance schedules and audition information on their official website.
    • Website: Bartell Theatre

  • Overture Center for the Arts

    • Address: 9 S Pinckney St, Madison, WI 53703
    • Neighborhood: Downtown Madison
    • Overview: This venue hosts major musical productions, plays, and dance performances, serving as a central hub for Madison’s performing arts scene. It regularly updates its performance and audition opportunities online.
    • Website: Overture Center for the Arts

  • Madison Arts Commission

    • Overview: Although an explicit website is not provided, the Madison Arts Commission supports local arts initiatives and funding, contributing to community-driven projects and performances throughout the city.

Prerequisites for Performing Arts Programs

Admission to a performing arts program typically involves specific prerequisites:

  • Undergraduate Programs:
    • General Theatre and Drama BS programs generally do not require an audition.
    • Programs with an Acting Option require students to complete prerequisite courses followed by an audition.
  • Graduate Programs:
    • Admission criteria may vary, with some programs requesting entrance exams, portfolio submissions, or prior performance experience.
  • Core Curriculum:
    • Applicants should expect courses in acting, design, playwriting, and theatre history, alongside hands-on performance or production requirements.

Career Opportunities with a Performing Arts Degree

Graduates in performing arts can pursue a wide range of career paths. These include roles as actors, dancers, music directors, producers, and theatre technicians—pathways available in film, television, and live theater. Graduates might also explore opportunities in dance companies, music venues, and production companies. Professional organizations such as the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST) provide accreditation and career networks, while many unions offer support for industry professionals. For detailed career growth and support information for actors, see the job outlook for Actors on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

Get Started Today

Madison, Wisconsin offers a dynamic environment for aspiring performers, with a rich blend of academic training and practical performance opportunities. With established programs at institutions like the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Viterbo University, and Edgewood College, along with an active local arts scene, you are well-positioned to pursue a meaningful career in the performing arts. Contact a school today through the forms available on their websites to begin your educational journey.

Additional Resources and Regulatory Bodies:

  • City of Madison Planning Department (Performing Arts Study): Analyzes demand, facilities, and funding for the performing arts in Madison. View Report
  • Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI): Oversees educational standards. Visit DPI
  • U.S. Department of Education: Provides information on higher education accreditation and funding. Visit Department of Education | Accreditation Information
  • National Endowment for the Arts (NEA): Grants and arts policy support. Visit NEA
  • National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST): Accredits theatre programs and sets industry standards. Visit NAST