University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa
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Theatre & Dance

Undergraduate Study: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Dance, or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theatre, or Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Dance Theatre, or Minor in Dance, or Minor in Theatre.

Website: www.hawaii.edu/theatre

The Department of Theatre (THEA) and Dance (DNCE) is comprised of two separate but related disciplines.

Academic Program : Dance

Dance is the art of human motion. It encompasses the study of human movement as it relates to the physical sciences, music, theater performance and production, history, cultural context, education, visual design, and human expression. Dance majors find careers in the areas of performance, choreography, teaching, arts administration and production, history and criticism, and research. The UHM’s dance program offers comprehensive theory courses and a wide variety of dance techniques and styles. The program is considered unique with its offerings in dance ethnology and Asian and Pacific dance.

Academic Program : Theatre

Theatre includes the study of dramatic literature and theory; acting and directing; stage, costume, and lighting design; stagecraft; playwriting; and Asian and youth theater. Imaginative and creative individuals interested in the disciplined, practical application of classroom theory are suitable candidates as theater majors. Teaching and professional stage, film, and television work are typical professions of theater majors, but the analytical and practical skills, discipline and self-confidence, creativity, problem solving, and ability to work toward common production goals are applicable to all professions. The theater major will benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes the world’s most noted Asian theater program and a nationally respected youth theater program.

Major-related Skills

In addition to discipline specific content, theatre and dance majors have the ability to:

  • imagine new and creative solutions, then execute creative decisions.

  • work collaboratively in a team.
  • make critical observations and evaluations.

  • feel comfortable with scrutiny and criticism.
  • observe and analyze introspectively.

  • feel at ease in new situations, and adapt to changing circumstances.

  • adapt ideas to different audiences.
  • demonstrate self-discipline, self-awareness, and self-assurance.

  • think precisely in the moment.
  • communicate (trained voice and articulate speech).

     

    Declaring Your Major

    Complete the first page of the appropriate Declaration of Major form and print two copies. Make an appointment with a faculty advisor in the Theatre & Dance Department to discuss your interests, major requirements, and course selection.  The advisor will complete the second page. Two copies of the completed form should then be turned in to the service counter for Arts & Sciences Student Academic Services.  

        Declaration of Major Form for BA in Dance
                                                     or     BFA in Dance Theatre
        Declaration of Major Form for BA in Theatre

    Note:  Click here if you are adding a second major - you will need to use a declaration of major form that has not been pre-filled to declare anthropology as your first major.  Click here for concurrent degree requests (i.e., between A&S and another college or different degree programs within A&S, such as concurrent BA and BS degrees).


    Created by Lynne Higa, Michael Kirk-Kuwaye

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