Although actors perform their art in front of audiences, the craft of acting, of becoming a new person, is deeply personal. It takes time and dedication to learn technique, to understand how to access the part of you that you turn into someone else and that's what happening on the stage.

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Although actors perform their art in front of audiences, the craft of acting, of becoming a new person, is deeply personal. It takes time and dedication to learn technique, to understand how to access the part of you that you turn into someone else and that's what happening on the stage.

Designing and building sets, creating costumes, devising the lighting scheme and sound effects each piece of a production is an art unto itself.

In CSF's Performing Arts Department, students learn all facets of stage production. This strong foundation makes CSF theater grads well respected around the country for their knowledge and professionalism. And unlike many conservatory programs, CSF has no waiting period for first-year students all performing arts students audition for mainstage productions upon arrival freshman year.

National and international theater professionals are brought in regularly to act as guest directors and actors and to lead classes and special seminars. In addition to mainstage plays, students also perform in studio shows, recitals, workshops, music forums and student films.

Our program is an intensive, four-year education in the key areas of filmmaking. While you are able specialize in some areas of the program, our goal is to educate the total filmmaker.

Production:
From the moment you walk in the building you are “in production.” Your first class introduces you ...

Our program is an intensive, four-year education in the key areas of filmmaking. While you are able specialize in some areas of the program, our goal is to educate the total filmmaker.

Production:
From the moment you walk in the building you are “in production.” Your first class introduces you to the elements of visual language, sound design, performance and writing. From there, you will learn the fundamentals of film, digital production and post-production.

Screenwriting:
Essential to becoming a filmmaker is the ability to express your ideas in dramatic form. An introductory writing workshop will help you to develop your creativity. You will learn the art writing for the screen. Classes are available at the introductory, intermediate and advanced levels.

Interactive Digital Media:
As a production tool and art form, the computer represents an important new medium. Through an understanding of digital imaging, sound and interactive applications, you will learn to shape your ideas for expanded cinematic forms. Beginning with basic digital design concepts you will learn to create interactive media projects including animation, websites, interactive exhibits, multi-screen environments, live cinema, VJ performance, network installations and 3-D simulations.

Critical Studies:
Fundamental to an education in the moving image arts is the ability to critically examine and analyze works for the screen. Through the study of the history of cinema; the role of media in a democracy; various film genres and national cinemas, you will learn about the social, political and cultural context in which moving image arts practices occur.