South Mountain Community College

South Mountain Community College (SMCC), part of the Maricopa County Community College District, offers an accessible and inclusive Theatre Arts Associate in Arts, Fine Arts (AAFA) degree with an emphasis in Theatre, designed for both transfer students and those pursuing creative expression. The curriculum provides foundational coursework in acting, stagecraft, script analysis, voice and movement, and production techniques. Students develop portfolios showcasing their academic and artistic achievements, preparing them for continued study or entry-level roles in theatre and design.

For students interested in musical theatre, SMCC also offers an AAFA emphasis in Musical Theatre, which integrates training in singing, dancing, and acting—including vocal lessons, musical theatre workshops, and rhythm/movement classes. This track enables students to hone “triple-threat” performance skills while fulfilling general education requirements toward the associate degree.

Performance studies at SMCC are deeply experiential. The South Mountain Performing Arts Center (PAC) anchors the theatre program, featuring a 350-seat mainstage theatre, a 100-seat studio theatre, and a 75-seat dance studio, all supported by scenic and technical shops. These environments allow students to rehearse and perform in venues comparable to professional theatres, gaining hands-on experience in lighting, set construction, and stage management.

SMCC theatre emphasizes experimentation, collaboration, and community engagement. Under the leadership of program faculty, the department produces devised and digital-media-driven performances—including stylized Brechtian or immersive works that foreground ensemble creation and thematic innovation. Students and community members of all backgrounds are invited to participate creatively.

The program also supports student involvement beyond class through public performances, community workshops, and participation in broader visual and performing arts initiatives. With its low tuition, diverse offerings, and emphasis on accessibility and creative belonging, SMCC’s Theatre Arts program offers a strong foundation for artistic development, transfer pathways to four-year institutions, or personal enrichment within the Phoenix–South Mountain community.