Performing Arts Department

Faculty
Beth Drog, MFA - Chair
Timm Adams, MM
Marissa Barnathan, MFA
Eric Brockmeier, BFA
Emma Cullimore, MFA
Deborah Mogford, MFA

The Performing Arts department offers all Rockford University students a unique opportunity to explore musical theatre, dance, music, acting/directing, design and technical theatre, and theatre management. All of these interrelated art forms are explored in an innovative, experimental environment where students can express themselves creatively, study the performing arts in their historical-cultural context, and participate in departmental programs and productions. Our faculty members believe in a hands-on approach of positive instruction and guidance to nurture creative and intellectual abilities. Classes are small for maximum student-teacher interaction. Some courses involve team teaching to provide a full understanding of the interrelationships of dance, music and theatre.

Students will have numerous opportunities to enhance their education in the performing arts. We stress to all our majors the importance of disciplining themselves to the rigors of academia within and outside the performing arts, attending artistic events and workshops with professional artists, and participating in student-produced as well as faculty-directed productions. The faculty encourages and helps prepare the students for professional auditions and interviews for summer theatre companies and established regional theatres. Juniors and seniors also may take advantage of internship programs with professional artistic organizations in the Rockford and Chicago areas.

• Dance Minor
• Music Minor
• Theatre Major, Acting/Directing Track, B.F.A.
• Theatre Major, Design and Production Track, B.F.A.
• Theatre Design and Production Minor
• Theatre Major, Musical Theatre Performance Track, B.F.A.
• Theatre Major, Theatre Management Track, B.F.A.
• Theatre Arts Major, B.A., B.S.
• Theatre Arts Minor