Modesto Junior College Performing and Media Arts Center

The Modesto Junior College Performing and Media Arts Center stands as a beacon of artistic and academic exploration in the heart of California's Central Valley. More than just a collection of buildings, it's a dynamic environment where creativity flourishes, skills are honed, and cultural experiences come alive for students and the wider community alike. As a key part of Modesto Junior College (MJC), this center is dedicated to providing accessible and high-quality education and entertainment in the fields of performing and media arts.

For those in Modesto and surrounding areas, the Performing and Media Arts Center offers a unique opportunity to engage with various art forms, whether as a student pursuing a passion or a local resident enjoying a captivating show. It represents MJC's commitment to fostering a vibrant cultural landscape, making higher education and artistic expression attainable for everyone.

The center is an integral part of Modesto Junior College's East Campus, located at 435 College Ave, Modesto, CA 95350, USA. Its central location in Modesto makes it highly accessible for residents throughout the city and neighboring communities in Stanislaus County.

Getting to the Modesto Junior College Performing and Media Arts Center is straightforward, whether you're commuting by car or utilizing local transportation. Ample parking is typically available on campus, and the college's position within Modesto's urban fabric means it's well-served by local transit options, ensuring a convenient visit for attendees and students alike. Its proximity to major roadways further enhances its accessibility for those coming from a bit further afield within the California Central Valley. The campus environment itself is generally well-maintained and provides a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.

The Modesto Junior College Performing and Media Arts Center, as part of MJC, offers a wide array of services designed to support both students in their academic journeys and the community in their artistic endeavors. These services span across various departments and contribute to a rich learning and cultural environment.

Services Offered:

• Comprehensive academic programs and degrees in Art, Communication Studies, Computer Graphics, Dance, Film, Television & Electronic Media, Humanities, Music, and Theatre.
• Opportunities for students to participate in major theatrical productions, dance concerts, and music performances, gaining invaluable hands-on experience.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities including a 796-seat proscenium theatre, a 74-seat Little Theatre, and a 100-seat Black Box Theatre for performances and rehearsals.
• Courses and workshops covering diverse artistic techniques such as acting, dance choreography, costume design, directing, playwriting, lighting, makeup, oral interpretation, stage design, and children's theatre.
• Instruction and performance opportunities in various music genres, including instrumental ensembles (Guitar Orchestra, Community Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Jazz Bands), vocal groups (Masterworks Chorus, college choirs), and electronic music.
• Academic and personal counseling for students to help guide their educational and career pathways.
• Tutoring services to support students in their coursework and academic success.
• Library services, including individual reference assistance, research workshops, and course textbook reserves.
• Student support services such as admissions assistance, financial aid information, and cultural programming.
• Community events, free concerts, and diverse artistic performances open to the public, enriching the local cultural scene.
• Student employment opportunities, including work-study programs.

The Modesto Junior College Performing and Media Arts Center boasts several features and highlights that make it a standout institution for arts education and entertainment in the region. These attributes contribute to a robust and engaging experience for all who interact with the center.

Features / Highlights:

• Modern Performance Facilities: The center is equipped with contemporary performance spaces, including a large proscenium theatre, a smaller intimate theatre, and a versatile black box theatre, providing diverse settings for a wide range of productions and events.
• Diverse Artistic Disciplines: It offers a comprehensive range of programs under one roof, allowing for interdisciplinary collaboration and a rich educational experience spanning visual arts, communication, dance, film, music, and theatre.
• Engaging Public Performances: The center is a vibrant hub for the local community, regularly hosting theatrical plays, musical concerts, dance showcases, and other cultural events that are open to the public, offering accessible and high-quality entertainment. The recent "Clue" play, for example, received positive feedback for its amazing actors and well-managed venue.
• Hands-on Learning Opportunities: Students are actively involved in all aspects of productions, from acting and performing to technical theatre, design, and production techniques, providing practical experience vital for their future careers.
• Experienced Faculty: Modesto Junior College generally receives positive feedback regarding its professors, with many students highlighting their dedication to teaching and willingness to help. This expertise is particularly valuable in the specialized fields of performing and media arts.
• Focus on Transfer Pathways: The center's academic programs, including Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) degrees, are designed to prepare students for seamless transfer to four-year universities, including the CSU system, enabling them to pursue bachelor's degrees.
• Community Engagement: Beyond academics, the center fosters a sense of community through various student clubs, activities, and events, encouraging personal growth and a well-rounded college experience.

Contact Information:

Address: 5808, 435 College Ave, Modesto, CA 95350, USA

Phone: (209) 575-6081

Mobile Phone: +1 209-575-6081

For locals in Modesto and the surrounding Central Valley, the Modesto Junior College Performing and Media Arts Center is an invaluable resource. It's more than just an educational institution; it's a dynamic community asset that enhances the cultural fabric of the region. Whether you are a high school graduate looking to begin your higher education journey in the arts, a working professional seeking to develop new skills, or simply someone who appreciates live performances and artistic expression, this center offers something for everyone.

Its affordability as a community college makes quality arts education accessible without the significant financial burden often associated with larger universities. The diverse range of programs, from acting and dance to film production and graphic design, means that aspiring artists and media professionals can find a clear pathway to their goals right here in their local area. Furthermore, the regular public performances, including plays, concerts, and dance shows, provide enriching entertainment options for families and individuals, fostering a vibrant local arts scene. The commitment to providing both academic rigor and practical, hands-on experience ensures that students are well-prepared for their next steps, whether that's transferring to a four-year institution or entering the workforce. The center stands as a testament to Modesto Junior College's dedication to serving its community, making it a truly suitable and beneficial place for locals to learn, grow, and experience the transformative power of the performing and media arts.

Modesto Junior College Performing and Media Arts Center

5808, 435 College Ave, Modesto, CA 95350, USA