Getting involved with the arts

The Fine Arts Department at Eastern has an array of degrees focusing on dance, music and theatre. Each year they have a multitude of concerts and performances that students are encouraged to be a part of, even if it is not their major. It is a great way to get involved on campus and build your community.

The dance department has the Eastern Dance Ministry, Precious Movements and a competitive dance team you can audition for. Jahzara Jenkins of the dance team says “It doesn’t matter where you start or your dance experience, the dance department at Eastern University is such a supportive, uplifting, and influential family, you are guaranteed to grow, learn, and feel nurtured.” They put an emphasis on integrating faith into their performances and show the audience their reason for dancing. 

The music department has an array of ensembles, some instrumental like Jazz Band, Marching Band and Percussion Ensemble, and some vocal like Turning Point and Gospel Choir. They have concerts throughout the year and sometimes pop up for special events. Joe Walsh, a music education major, says “being involved in the arts is so important because it nurtures the whole person–the mind, body and spirit.” These clubs are a great way to get involved with not only music, but also the sporting events on campus. 

The theatre department has two plays/musicals each year as well as some smaller shows usually directed or written by Eastern students. Amari Dickerson, a theatre major says “you should join the theatre department because we are growing not just as a department, but are becoming more familiar and involved with the community and other departments.” Even if you are not into acting, they can always use help with stage crew. Theatre is a great department to learn a multitude of different skills from designing the aesthetic of a show, to building it and even directing. 

If you are interested in any of these departments, I encourage you to keep an eye out for emails and flyers advertising auditions. You can also always contact the department faculty for more information.