A noted theater scholar shaped its destiny. This is Melnitz East. William Melnitz devoted two decades to building UCLA’s theater arts program. His journey from Germany to Los Angeles shaped his vision. Melnitz earned degrees in Germanic languages at UCLA. He then joined the faculty.
In 1953, Melnitz became chair of the Theater Department. Then in 1960, he became the founding dean of the College of Fine Arts. Melnitz spearheaded the building plan. This plan enabled the College of Fine Arts to grow quickly. It also created new facilities.
Melnitz Hall stands as a testament to his dedication. In 1967, the Department of Motion Pictures, Television and Radio moved into Melnitz Hall. Melnitz retired that same year. Melnitz East plays a vital role in UCLA’s School of Theater, Film and Television.
The UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television consistently ranks among the top elite entertainment and performing arts institutions. It offers an innovative curriculum. This curriculum integrates live performance, film, television and the digital arts. The school’s programs include acting, directing and writing. Producing, animation and cinematography also feature. Students can study lighting design, set design, costume design and sound design. The school also offers doctoral degrees. These degrees are in theater and performance studies and cinema and media studies.
The school aims to develop outstanding storytellers. They strive to mold industry leaders and scholars. These individuals use their diverse voices. They want to enlighten, engage and inspire change. The goal is a better world.
Before Melnitz’s deanship, drama appeared at UCLA in 1941. These English Department classes covered public speaking. They also included dramatic reading, set design and play production. In 1947, the Theater Arts department was established. Film producer Kenneth Macgowan was its first chair.
The department became part of the UCLA College of Fine Arts in 1960. For its first two years, it offered undergraduate study. These studies spanned Theater, Motion Pictures and Radio. This arrangement marked a first. A leading university brought these subjects under a single administration. This was done in cooperation with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The four major radio broadcasting networks also participated. So did the Associated Committee on Television.
Melnitz East stands near the UCLA James Bridges Theater. This theater is located in Melnitz Hall. The theater has 270 seats. Convenient parking is available nearby. The theater hosts live show performances and NT Live screenings. Assisted listening devices and ADA seating are available.
To get to Melnitz East from the 405 freeway, exit at Sunset and head East. Then turn right onto Hilgard. Take an immediate right onto Charles E. Young Drive into Lot 3. From Westwood Village, head north on Hilgard Ave. Turn left onto Charles E. Young Drive and into Lot 3.
Parking is available in Parking Structure 3. This structure is directly across from Melnitz Hall. The entrance to the James Bridges Theater is on the west side of the building. Pay for parking at a kiosk using cash or credit card. You can also use the ParkMobile app.
Melnitz East embodies the spirit of innovation and artistic excellence. It is a place where storytellers are made. It is a place where the future of entertainment is shaped. As you stand here, you are at the heart of UCLA’s vibrant arts community.