Chabot College

The Chabot College Theater Arts program is dedicated to providing comprehensive training in all facets of theatre, serving students, the campus, and the wider community. Beyond foundational skills in acting, writing, directing, and technical theatre, the program emphasizes the holistic development of students, fostering qualities such as social consciousness, self-awareness, personal responsibility, and critical thinking. This commitment ensures students are not only prepared for the stage or behind-the-scenes roles but also for impactful engagement in civic and cultural life.

Students at Chabot College can pursue various degrees and certificates within the Theater Arts program. A notable offering is the Advanced Acting Certificate of Achievement, a 22-unit program designed to deepen performance skills. Core courses include Introduction to Acting, Intermediate Acting, Movement for the Actor, Voice for the Actor, and Audition Technique. These structured pathways ensure a robust educational foundation, preparing students for continued academic pursuits or direct entry into the professional theatre world.

The curriculum extends to a diverse array of specialized courses, allowing students to explore specific areas of interest. Course offerings are organized into distinct categories: acting technique (ranging from introductory to advanced levels, including acting on camera and improv), theory courses (covering script analysis and theatre history), performance in production (featuring mainstage productions and emerging works), and technical theatre (encompassing set design, lighting, costume and makeup, stage management, and stagecraft). This breadth of study allows students to tailor their education to their unique career aspirations.

A significant aspect of the Chabot College Theatre Arts program is the ample opportunity for practical application. Students gain invaluable hands-on experience through various theatrical productions, including mainstage plays and "Emerging Works," all guided by experienced faculty directors. These productions are often hosted at the impressive Reed L. Buffington Visual & Performing Arts Center, a 1,432-seat auditorium that serves as a hub for over 100 diverse events annually, providing a professional environment for student learning and performance.

Ultimately, the Chabot College Theater Arts program is designed to equip students for success, whether they choose to pursue further academic study or embark on professional careers in theatre. By integrating rigorous artistic training with the development of essential life skills such as collaboration, creativity under stress, and problem-solving, the program ensures its graduates are well-rounded, adaptable, and ready to contribute meaningfully to the dynamic world of performing arts.