Performing Arts

Set the Stage for Your Success

Build confidence, learn to improvise, and cultivate your creativity with Colby-Sawyer's performing arts programs. Dance, sing or act in main stage production or sit back and watch your friends in the spotlight. Students from any major benefit from stage experience — and many graduates have gone on to pursue their creative passions as professional lighting designers, filmmakers, stage managers and Hollywood actors.

Get in the Act

The dance program offers multi-level instruction in ballet, modern, jazz and choreography, as well as performance and repertory. Courses help to develop your technical abilities in a safe and nurturing environment while you artistically and creatively break out of your comfort zone to grow as a dancer and artist. The program produces main stage performances each year that feature original choreography under the artistic direction of dance faculty.

Theater coursework includes performing arts history, acting, directing and technical theater including stagecraft and theatrical design with an emphasis on set construction and lighting.

Music courses and a variety of applied offerings include lessons, master classes and performance ensemble work. Credit is given for the study of guitar, violin, fiddle piano, voice or other instruments, subject to approval by the department.