Theatre
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Theatre Program

Make the World Your Stage 

Explore the exciting world of theatre at Oakland Community College. We offer you immersive classes and performance opportunities.

Improve your acting chops as much as you want. Take the full program and transfer to a university. Or take a class or two to explore something new.

No matter your path, the Theatre Program at OCC is worth your time. Come on in and explore.

Why to Major in Theatre at Oakland Community College

  • Earn an Associate in Arts degree with a concentration in Acting
  • Take core theatre classes and transfer to local four-year universities
  • Learn from experienced, professional actors and technicians so you can go into the professional entertainment industry
  • Work behind the scenes to help build and run the productions
  • Perform on stage in all Oakland Community College theatre productions
  • Meet industry professionals to start networking today
  • Join a community that is inclusive and wants to include your voice

Explore the Oakland Community College Theatre Program

Our theatre department collaborates with the ASL department, offering students a chance to incorporate shadow interpreting into their performances and greater inclusivity into their art.
Did you know?

Stage Your Future

The Theatre program is an Associate in Arts degree with a concentration in Theatre, focusing on both theory and practical application. You will leave this program:

  • Prepared to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre
  • Enter a specialized school of acting
  • Enter the entertainment industry

Theatre Degree

Job Market Outlook

Review: OCC's 2023 Production of "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee!"

"The Tony Award-winning musical follows a group of 'wonderfully unique and vibrant adolescents' competing for a bee championship that illustrates the importance of inclusion and community. Marissa Carson led the cast as Rona Lisa Perretti. She was confident and strong as the real estate mogul turned spelling bee judge and former champion. I would also love to highlight one of the signing actors, Alexandria Cessna, who played Leaf Coneybear's Interpreter. She was so energetic and exciting to watch. She perfectly added to Leaf's childlike character. OCC director, Jennifer Little brought together a unique cast of signing and singing actors. This element helped portray two different interpretations of the same character simultaneously which added so much dimension and character to this production." Full review on Broadway World.

— Emily Schenk
Nov. 19, 2023

"I joined OCC Theatre Program because I wanted to get as much experience with acting as I could. This program has helped me grow TREMENDOUSLY. I have learned many things about the process and inner workings of an actor’s journey and about myself. As long as you're having fun the journey never ends and you never stop learning. Everyone likes to have fun!"

— Kalen Rogers, Theatre Major
Kalen Rogers posing for a photo with his hand behind his head and the exterior of a building in the background.
"The theatre department at Oakland Community College has truly given me so much knowledge of the true world of what it’s like to be an actress. If you have any thoughts on majoring in theatre or even just one class, I have no doubt it will be the best time of your college experience!"

— Marissa Carson
Marissa Carson posing for a professional headshot photo in front of a white backdrop.

Eligibility Information 

This program is offered on the Orchard Ridge campus, with entry level classes at Royal Oak and Auburn Hills.

Prospective students must meet standard OCC eligibility requirements – there is an open admissions policy and placement tests and new student orientation are required in most cases. Students should meet with an OCC counselor before attempting this plan of study.

Take the Next Steps 

Ready to begin your theatre studies? Get started now: 

  • Apply to OCC. If you’re not already an OCC student, create a profile and complete our online application. On the application select the degree program Theatre Applicant (THE.APP).
  • Existing OCC students can update their academic program using the Student Update Information Request form. 
  • Email the Theatre Director if you would like more information about the classes or program. We'll set you up with a zoom conversation.