Steven Cole Hughes directs actors during the Tartuffe dress rehearsal
Media, Literary, and Performing Arts

Clubs & Organizations

Gain real experience in media and performance.

Western gives you the space to create, experiment, and share your voice. Step into the theatre spotlight, spin tracks and stories on KWSB, or get behind the camera with Taylor Media and Mountaineer Media to produce film and video that make an impact. If words are your medium, you can report for Top O’ The World or join Wordhorde to explore new styles of storytelling.

Student Kai Vong works at the KWSB radio station.

Where Ideas Take Shape

Western’s student-led organizations are where creativity meets opportunity. From theatre and film to radio and journalism, these groups give you the chance to move beyond the classroom and dive into real-world practice. You might step into the spotlight with the Western Theatre Company, take the mic at KWSB radio, craft compelling stories for Top O’ The World, or produce films alongside Taylor Media. Each experience is designed to mirror professional standards, helping you sharpen your craft while learning how to lead projects, collaborate with peers, and share your voice with a wider audience. Whether your goal is building a career-ready portfolio or simply exploring your creative passions, Western provides the platform to make it happen.

Part of the Tartuffe cast lines up against the wall and make dramatic expressions.

Bring Your Creativity to Life

From acting and directing with the Western Theatre Company to hosting a show on KWSB radio, you’ll have the chance to showcase your talents in dynamic, hands-on environments. If film and video spark your interest, Taylor Media and Mountaineer Media offer opportunities to create high-quality digital content. Writers can dive into journalism with Top O’ The World or strengthen their storytelling through Wordhorde’s workshops and events—all designed to help you explore your passions and grow your craft.

Student Carley Donk adjusts a lighting fixture during a film class.

Develop Professional Skills

Working in these organizations means learning how to create with others while building leadership experience. You’ll work alongside peers, faculty mentors, and industry professionals on projects that require planning, communication, and adaptability. Whether you’re producing a play, running a live broadcast, or editing creative content, you’ll gain collaboration, project management, and problem-solving skills that transfer to any career path.

Kai Vong sits in the KWSB studio during his jazz DJ show for the radio station.

Build a Portfolio That Stands Out

Every project you take on becomes proof of your creativity and skill. From theatre performances and video productions to published articles and radio shows, your work can be showcased in a professional portfolio that highlights your talent and dedication. These experiences not only give you a strong foundation for graduate school or future jobs but also demonstrate your ability to turn ideas into polished, real-world outcomes.

Media, Literary, and Performing Arts Clubs

A student on stage speaking into a microphone.

WordHorde

​WordHorde is Western Colorado University’s creative writing club that fosters a vibrant literary community on campus. Originally focused on spoken word, it has evolved to include fiction and poetry, hosting open mic nights and performances that encourage student expression and collaboration. The club provides a platform for students to share their work, develop their voices, and engage with diverse narratives in a supportive environment.

Kai Vong sits in the KWSB studio during his jazz DJ show for the radio station.

KWSB 91.1 FM

KWSB 91.1 FM is Western Colorado University’s student-run radio station, broadcasting since 1968. It offers students hands-on experience in radio production, programming, and management. With a diverse range of music, talk shows, and campus news, KWSB serves both the university and Gunnison community as a creative and energetic media outlet.

Located: KWSB Studios

A view of Taylor Hall with cherry blossoms.

Top O’ The World

Top O’ The World is Western Colorado University’s independent student newspaper. Recently revived, it gives students real-world journalism experience by covering campus news, opinions, and community issues. The publication has been recognized for its role in revitalizing local journalism and continues to grow under dedicated student leadership and faculty mentorship.

Julian Rubinstein Faculty Advisor
Taylor Hall at golden hour.

Mountaineer Media

Mountaineer Media offers students hands-on experience in media production, including film and audio projects. Members collaborate on creative storytelling, gain technical skills, and contribute to campus media initiatives. The club fosters a supportive environment for students to explore and develop their media interests.

Morgan Raspanti Faculty Advisor

Located: Taylor Hall

See Western's students in the news.

  • Western’s Top O’ The World Student Newspaper Recognized for Reviving Local News

    Western’s Top O’ The World Student Newspaper Recognized for Reviving Local News

    The news business may be changing, but reports of its death have been greatly exaggerated. Western Colorado University’s Top O’ The World student newspaper was…
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Your Voice, Your Platform

Clubs and organizations in Communication Arts let you put your creativity into action while gaining practical experience. Whether you’re performing on stage, producing films, broadcasting on the radio, or publishing stories, these opportunities give you the chance to sharpen your skills, collaborate with peers, and share your voice with the campus and community.

Students have participated in:

  • Acting, directing, and producing with the Western Theatre Company

  • Hosting shows and sharing music or stories on KWSB Radio

  • Creating films and digital media through Taylor Media and Mountaineer Media

  • Writing, editing, and reporting for Top O’ The World, Western’s student-run newspaper

  • Exploring storytelling and craft through Wordhorde workshops and events

The Tartuffe cast bows in a row at the end of their performance

Write your own narrative.

See yourself on stage, behind the mic, or in the newsroom. Visit Western to tour our studios, sit in on a rehearsal, or meet the students leading our Communication Arts clubs, and discover how you can get involved.

Plan a Visit