Kat Campagna '12
Theatre Arts Major; English Minor

"From the start of my college search, Catawba had everything I was looking for. A few things that stood out to me were the strong liberal arts program, a nationally recognized Theatre Arts program, a small student body, and a beautiful campus. Although the school is 13 hours away from my home in Connecticut, my education has been well worth the travel. My experience has been nothing short of wonderful. The faculty of the department have shaped me into a well-rounded actor/technician, which is not something all theatre programs can promise. I am positive that my Catawba education will help me reach my career goals of being an actor, as well as a Costume Designer."

Zach McRae '12
Musical Theatre Major

"I chose Catawba because I wanted to study Theatre Arts, and I chose Musical Theatre because I fell in love with singing and dancing on top of my training as an actor. The department really does have a family feel, and the faculty pay attention to you as a growing individual. If you chose any of the Theatre Arts majors here, you will have to work very hard, but you will be rewarded with wonderful learning experiences in ALL areas of making theatre happen — you don't get a degree for just prancing around on stage trying to be star."

Ashley Jackson '12
Theatre Arts Major; President of The Diversity Club; Member of Blue Masque; Gospel Choir

"I chose Catawba because I wanted to go to a small school with a great reputation for excellence. I also like the personal relationships I've made with students and teachers alike. Since I am a transfer student, adjusting to a new state and school can be tough. However, when I transferred to Catawba, I immediately connected with the students and faculty. I have many plans for after graduation, but one of them is to move to Atlanta, GA to (hopefully) work with Tyler Perry."

Advice for Prospective and First-Year Students:
"Make sure you do the necessary research before making a big decision. Some students may love the small campus life, while other students may like larger campuses. Don't stress about choosing a major right away! Your first year should be about exploring your options and making connections. Be open with your professors about your interests. They are here to help you. Lastly, do not be afraid to put yourself out there! Make friends and take advantage of the clubs and activities on campus. It is one of the fastest ways to make friends."

Robin Tynes '12
Musical Theatre Major

"I chose Catawba because of the beautiful campus and the wonderful faculty. We are so lucky to have the nature preserve on campus and we have some of the most caring faculty and staff I've ever met. I chose to major in Musical Theatre at Catawba because I was impressed with the wide variety of opportunities that students get in the Theatre Arts Department. We have many opportunities for leadership, as well as getting both performance and technical theatre experience which will help us further understand the art we are focusing on and get hired! Plus the Theatre Arts and Music faculty and staff are just phenomenal and they are always available if you have questions or just need to talk. I plan on working in the theatre in the future and hopefully performing but also starting a theatre camp for kids to inspire others to express themselves through the arts."

Claire Robinson '12
Theatre Arts Major (Design and Production)

"Catawba's Theatre Arts Department has given me a wealth of opportunities to grow both as an artist and as a technician. I entered the department in my freshman year knowing only that I liked sewing and was unsure of how far I could go in the theatre.  Now, as a junior, I have designed costumes for multiple shows, some at local community theatres, in addition to a resume and portfolio brimming with a wide variety of produciton experiences. Being a theatre major here has given me the confidence and skill set to develop my leadership and management abilities, in addition to pushing me to become a more well-rounded student. Catawba's Theatre Arts Department is my home away from home and if I had to make my college decision again I wouldn't think twice about choosing Catawba."

Katherine Higgins '13
Theatre Arts Administration Major

"The best thing about Catawba's Theatre Arts Department is the individual attention you receive and the amazing people that surround you. I cannot tell you how much I have grown from being in this program. Not only have I received a great education in my area of study, but in all aspects of the theatre. The best part is that I know I have made just as much of an influence on the Theatre Arts program as it has made on me. We really are a family here, and I know I will go away from Catawba prepared for what's ahead of me."

Donna Steele '13
Theatre Arts Education Major

"When I first began to look at colleges, I wanted to be in a program where the students only focused on acting. I thought that was all I needed in order to succeed in theatre. However, since I have been at Catawba I have learned that there is so much more to it. I have learned about lighting, design, paint, and I have also been able to perform on stage since my freshmen year. Theatre Arts at Catawba is all about making sure you can become as well-rounded as possible and fully prepared when you enter the "real world;" this is why I have decided to go to into teaching. I want to be able teach students how valuable it is to learn about what goes on backstage and help them realize that they are fully capable of doing it too."