Within the past decade, college musical theater programs have witnessed an unprecedented upsurge in applications. Some of these prestigious programs have reported a spike of up to 300 percent or more in applications. However, this influx hasn’t been matched with an increase in the number of admitted students, leading to steep decline in acceptance rates for some of the leading schools worldwide. For instance, the musical theater program at Carnegie Mellon University posted an acceptance rate of a mere half percent last year, illustrating the highly competitive nature of these programs.
Dr. Peter Cooke, who heads the School of Drama at Carnegie Mellon, revealed some startling statistics. According to him, while other programs at the school are undoubtedly competitive, the musical theater program sits at the pinnacle of competitiveness. Back in 2009 when he joined the school, the entire School of Drama received 1,500 applicants. This number doubled to 3,000 by this year. A staggering 2,300 of those applications were for the musical theater program, with only 12 being accepted: an equal split of six men and six women. This leaves 700 applicants for the other drama programs, of which 44 were accepted.
This presents a clear image of the fierce competition for spots in musical theater programs in colleges worldwide. The odds certainly seem daunting, but it’s important to not let these figures discourage you.
Understanding the Competitive Landscape of Musical Theatre Programs
Given the increasingly competitive nature of musical theater programs, prospective students must start their audition preparations earlier and in a more comprehensive way than ever before, while still keeping their expectations grounded and showing resilience in the face of setbacks.
Matthew Scott Campbell, an assistant professor and chair of the theater and musical theater department at Viterbo University, advises not to put all your hopes on a single dream school. It’s essential to understand your suitability for different programs, given that several other individuals are also likely eyeing the same spot. Over the past five years, Viterbo has reported a yearly rise in student applications, ranging from 10 to 15 percent.
Victoria Bussert, director of the music theater program at Baldwin Wallace University, points out the importance of students doing their groundwork. If thorough research is done, students should be able to identify the schools that are a good fit for them. Baldwin Wallace has experienced an increase of over 100 in-person auditions for the 2017-18 break from the previous year.
So, what factors should you consider to find the right school for you? There are a plethora of elements to consider, including cost, size, location, and most importantly, what you aspire to do with your degree. Performance-based degrees generally come in two forms: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.).
Identifying the Right Degree for You
Knowing the distinction between these two degrees is vital, especially in understanding the environment in which you will flourish the most.
A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) is a more extensive liberal arts degree. Approximately 60 percent of the coursework covers general education classes like math, sciences, languages, and the remaining 40 percent will be dedicated to your major such as acting, singing, dancing. This degree offers greater flexibility, making it an ideal choice if you desire to explore other career paths since it provides a broader general education course load.
In contrast, a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) is a performance-focused degree with as much as 80 percent of your coursework revolving around your major, and 20 percent focused on general education. In some highly specialized conservatory settings, this ratio might skew towards 95 percent in performance classes, leaving just five percent for general education courses. This degree is recommended for individuals who seek an intense level of specialized training. It usually involves six days of classes and rehearsals each week, often extending to long hours.
However, it’s important to note that if you possess a B.F.A., you may need to undertake additional classes or obtain a second bachelor’s degree before switching majors or pursuing a graduate degree in a non-performing arts field. This is due to the B.F.A.’s performance-focused coursework, which usually does not meet the general education requirements of other degrees.
The Art of Selecting the Perfect Audition Material
The starting point in preparing for a successful audition is the selection of the material that resonates with you,” says Victoria Bussert, director of Baldwin Wallace University’s music theater program. Beyond just liking the material, it’s essential to dig deeper into it: examine the librettos, scrutinize the scripts. The more thoroughly you understand the context and content, the more it will shine through in your performance.
Matthew Scott Campbell, chair of Viterbo University’s theater and musical theater department, emphasizes that “students are investing in the program, and the program is investing in the student. We’re willing to overlook many mistakes, even talent to some extent, as long as we see that a great deal of effort and thought has been lavished on the audition and the interview.”
Echoing Campbell’s sentiment, Sean Kelly, the director of the Theatre Conservatory at Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University, also emphasizes preparation. “The material has to be reliable, fitting, and it must be completely mastered,” Kelly says. “Identifying engaging, youthful material is crucial. Avoid overstretching yourself beyond the realms of what’s expected from a 17- to 22-year-old. Choose something current, personalized, and not overused.”
Identifying the right material can be the most demanding and time-consuming element of audition preparation. A proactive engagement with various plays and musicals throughout high school years is the best technique to discover suitable material. When a potential fit is spotted, maintain an audition materials journal, where you can record the songs and monologues you like, then locate the script and read it. Avoid lifting material from a monologue or a songbook without thoroughly reading the complete script.
Guiding Principle for Material Selection
Consider the following when selecting your material:
- Authenticity: Choose pieces that resonate with you on a personal level. This connection will translate into a genuine performance that judges can see and appreciate;
- Suitability: The material should be age-appropriate and suitable for your voice and skillset. Trying to perform something that’s too mature or advanced can lead to a lackluster performance;
- Originality: Avoid overused monologues and songs. Selecting less common pieces can make you stand out, and judges are likely to appreciate hearing something fresh;
- Preparation: Ensure you practice thoroughly. A well-rehearsed performance shows dedication and professionalism.
Mastering the Art of the Interview for Auditions
A common misconception amongst hopefuls for musical theater programs is that the auditions only entail showcasing your singing, acting, and dancing skills. However, college department heads largely agree that the interview holds equal, if not more, importance in the audition process. The interview offers an opportunity for the panel to delve into your personality and ascertain your suitability for their program.
According to Sean Kelley, the director of the Theatre Conservatory at Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University, the audition process is as much about getting to know the candidate as a person as it is about assessing their talent. He believes the true value of the audition comes from establishing a connection and making students comfortable.
For Dr. Peter Cooke of Carnegie Mellon’s School of Drama, what he is primarily seeking are engaged and well-rounded applicants. His advice to those preparing for the interview is to immerse themselves in various life experiences. Attending sports events, visiting art galleries, and engaging in community activities enrich one’s understanding of the world and can provide an edge in interviews.
Staying informed about current events and expanding your knowledge through books may not typically fall within the purview of audition preparation but can unexpectedly prove beneficial. Your local library’s performing arts section can be a valuable resource for this. Aim to read two books every month, and don’t hesitate to venture beyond your comfort zone. A wide breadth of knowledge, even if seemingly unrelated to the performing arts, could provide an advantage in your interview.
Navigating the Decision-Making Process in the World of Performing Arts
One of the most significant milestones for aspiring performers is their first audition for a college musical theater program. This process signifies their first step into a wider arena, where local stardom must make way for national competition. Stepping into this realm can be a humbling experience as students realize that they are no longer the only star in their universe, but rather one among many constellations.
This journey, while intimidating, provides a glimpse into the realities of the performing arts profession. Much like the audition process, professional artists face intense competition and must persevere through numerous auditions before eventually landing a role. The college admissions process, in this respect, acts as a precursor to real-world experiences in the industry.
For some, the decision-making process can seem overwhelming and even disheartening. There are, however, silver linings to the experience. Throughout this journey, students gain invaluable life skills. They learn the art of resilience, the power of perseverance, and the virtue of patience. This journey also provides students with opportunities to meet like-minded peers, fostering possible lifelong friendships and beneficial networking possibilities.
Remember, every audition experience, whether successful or otherwise, is part of the learning curve and contributes to your growth as an artist and maturing as an individual. It’s not just about finding the right college; it’s also about discovering more about yourself, your strengths, your areas for improvement, and your resilience in the face of rejection.
Key Takeaways:
- Resilience: The audition process tests resilience and can help in building a stronger, more resilient character;
- Networking: Auditioning provides numerous opportunities for networking, which can offer long-term benefits;
- Self-Discovery: Throughout the audition process, performers discover more about their capabilities, strengths, and areas for improvement.
Conclusion
The process of auditioning and selecting the perfect college musical theater program serves as a conduit for personal and professional growth. It’s a journey filled with life-defining experiences that extend beyond the confines of a stage, a journey that ultimately shapes individuals into more resilient and more mature artists. This path reveals that the world of performing arts doesn’t merely offer a platform to showcase talent; it also offers a life-enriching, transformative experience that vastly contributes to one’s personal and professional development.