Mission
The Fine Arts Department at Riverland Community College is a comprehensive arts program dedicated to developing the students' intellectual and creative potential in art, music and theatre, through quality instruction and a variety of performance/exhibition opportunities by expecting a high standard in all artistic endeavors.

Theatre Department Overview
Riverland's Theatre Department is a high-energy performance oriented program. Plays produced vary from classical tragedy to modern comedy and from full-scale large cast musicals to intimate small cast plays. Students are encouraged to get involved in all areas of theatre production, including, but not limited to, acting, stage managing, set building and painting. Strong academic offerings provide challenges in and out of the classroom.

• An AFA communicates the focus is in the chosen art form - theatre
• Students will have a directed course of study that will prepare them for transfer to a four-year university or to enter the field.
• Transfer institutions will have a clearer understanding of the focus and scope of the student's training and education.
• Practical application courses will ensure the student's involvement in play production.
• The inclusion of the MnTC will foster communication and conceptualization skills necessary for further study or a professional career.

• AFA available - one of a few Minnesota colleges to offer the AFA in Theatre
• Excellent opportunity to participate no matter what your experience
• Immediate opportunity to participate in all areas of theatre
• Articulation agreements in place to ensure smooth transition to university work
• Low student-to-faculty ratio
• Opportunity to complete general education classes while focusing on the arts
• Affordable on-campus housing

About the Department:
Riverland Theatre produces four main stage major productions each academic year: one classic well-known musical, one newer or more innovative musical, one comedy (modern or classic) and 1 (classic or modern) drama. Students also have an opportunity to participate in Summerset Theatre, which is currently in it 40th year. Summerset mounts three productions in June and July. In August current students are able to join alumni in a major production with the purpose of raising money for theatre and music scholarships.

Past productions include:

The annual Theatre Day brings professionals to campus for acting and other workshops. RCC students, along with high school students from the surrounding area, work with professionals and then view a professional production. Past Theatre Days include performances and actors from the Guthrie Theatre and Mixed Blood Theatre. The newly expanded curriculum ensures students have not only practical performance experience but also a strong academic background.

Helpful Background
Students who wish to pursue the AFA in Theatre should take advantage of every performance opportunity available. Academic preparation should include the standard college prep courses and especially include any theatre, music or art classes available. Dance training and vocal lessons will further prepare the student for a successful experience.

Transfer and Career opportunities:
Students completing an AFA in Theatre can look forward to a smooth transfer to a university enabling the successful student to complete the BA degree in four years. The successful AFA student also has a completed degree in hand and may choose to pursue a career in theatre at that point. In addition to theatre, many with a degree in theatre pursue careers in mass media, film studios, advertising firms, radio/television, business and industry, public relations firms and industrial studios.

Resource Information