Theatre and Performing Arts at Cornell College

<p>My D has been accepted to Cornell College and is interested in learning more about the theatre and performing arts programs. She knows that she wants to participate in theatre and choral groups. She does improv and would also be interested in the Lyric Theatre group. If anyone has experience with majors, minors or co-curriculars, we would love to hear about it. Also, since there is no dance major, would there be opportunities to keep up her skills? Thanks!</p>

<p>I am a recent graduate of Cornell College. I was not involved in any Theatre and Performing Arts while there, but I am aware of the current groups and organizations.</p>

<p>For related extra-curriculars, there are many options:

  • STC (Student Theatre Club): This club has oversight from the academic department. The students put on play festivals, encourage student writing, send students to a technical conference, etc. The group is fairly active and has a lot of enthusiasm and involvement from students.
  • Phase5!: This is the completely student-run improv group on campus. They do blockly shows in the Black Box theatre. The shows tend to be hilarious and shocking.
  • Slick Shoes: This is an extremely active dance group on campus. The group practices and teaches different dance styles weekly. Certain members of the group attend competitions, and the group often brings special teachers.</p>

<p>Other opportunities:

  • There is no dance major, but in the past few years there has been some discussion of a dance minor. There have been adjunct professors who have taught dance courses.
  • Some students have assisted with one of the community dance studios.
  • Iowa City and Cedar Rapids are extremely close and have fairly vibrant theatre and dance communities.</p>

<p>Cornell’s theatre program has been nationally ranked in the past, and I can personally attest to the quality of the performances. The theatre program is a small community in and of itself, and there is so much support from faculty and staff. Cornell itself is easily the best decision I’ve ever made.</p>

<p>Let me know if you have any other questions!</p>

<p>Thanks very much for your response. It sounds like there are many activities to choose from on campus. Is there a way for students without a car to get into Cedar Rapids or Iowa City…a regular bus?</p>

<p>Cornell College has impressive stats on job and grad school placement. Have you found them to be accurate among your graduating class? So far we have been impressed with all of our dealings with Cornell College.</p>

<p>Every day there is someone driving into CR and Iowa City. Not a regular bus but students gravitate to Iowa City and you can always find a ride.</p>

<p>Thanks again, @iadorking!</p>