Department of Theatre and Dance
- College of the Arts
For more than 50 years, the Department of Theatre and Dance at Montclair State University has prepared actors, dancers, designers, and arts leaders for successful careers in the performing arts. Located just 14 miles from Manhattan, students have direct access to Broadway, world-class performances, and professional opportunities. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre and the National Association of Schools of Dance, the department offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs supported by rigorous, pre-professional production experiences. With expert faculty, visiting industry professionals, and exceptional facilities — including multiple theatres and studios — students gain the training and real-world experience needed to thrive on stage, behind the scenes, and across the entertainment industry.
- Social Media
- 973-655-4000
- Life Hall
- 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Welcome from the Chair
The Department of Theatre and Dance is a special place full of vibrancy, curiosity, and tenacity. Here, students can find the foundation of a liberal arts education with the professional and creative skills needed to thrive as an artist, all within the inclusive environment of Montclair State University. It is our mission to produce well-equipped, flexible, inspired artist-thinkers who are socially aware and personally responsible.
Study, create, and perform in exceptional facilities, from the state-of-the-art Alexander Kasser Theater to fully equipped dance studios and production shops. Learn from renowned faculty and guest artists who will mentor and inspire your artistic and professional growth. Please come visit us or check out a performance to see us in action.
Prof. Kathleen Kelley,
Chairperson, Theatre and Dance
Accolades and Associations
The Department of Theatre and Dance is recognized statewide and nationally for excellence, ranking #9 among the Best Theatre Bachelor's Degree Programs, #8 among the Most Popular Dance Schools in the U.S., and #1 in New Jersey for Drama and Theatre Arts. It is also recognized as one of the nation's top 25 college dance programs and ranked #2 Best Acting School in New Jersey.
Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Theatre and the National Association of Schools of Dance, the department prepares graduates for successful careers throughout the performing arts, with alumni performing on Broadway and across the entertainment industry.
Discover Theatre and Dance
Facts
Broadway Alumni Success: Ranked #15 Nationwide (Playbill.com)
Top 25 college dance programs in the U.S. (DanceUS.org)
#9 Best Theatre Bachelor's Degree Programs (Study.com)
Our Productions
See our students, faculty, and guest artists in action through a vibrant season of performances, productions, showcases, and events that highlight the power of live theatre and dance.
Stay Connected
Stay connected with Montclair Theatre and Dance. Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest updates on productions, events, student work, and department news.
Theatre and Dance In the News
-
The Elementary Spacetime Show to Play Lincoln Center Later This Month
The work centers on a teenager who finds herself in a cosmic vaudevillian game show where winning or losing has dire consequences.
playbill.com -
Montclair State University Will Present THE ELEMENTARY SPACETIME SHOW At Lincoln Center
Production of THE ELEMENTARY SPACETIME SHOW will culminate in a student performance at Lincoln Center’s David Rubenstein Atrium
Broadway World -
Review: Chutzpah? An Afro-Cuban-Yiddish Opera Worth a Schlep
The ambitious Peak Performances series at Montclair State University takes a chance on something extraordinary.
The New York Times
Education Experience
What is it like to pursue your passion at the Department of Theatre and Dance at Montclair State? Hear from our students and alumni about what learning from and working with our faculty and staff means to them.