College Musical Theatre Programs - How to Pick the Right One?

High school students who are interested in majoring in musical theatre need to make a major decision: which college to attend. When sorting through their options, questions will include, which college has a program that’s the best fit? Which college will help them enhance their acting and singing skills? Rather than throwing a proverbial dart at a map on the wall to make a decision, consider the following suggestions to help you choose the best program for your needs.

Meet with the Professors

Once you’ve chosen a few schools to examine thoroughly, make an appointment to meet with the musical theatre program’s professors. Look at a few different criteria, such as their experience and what type of training they have. For example, you might find professors with an M.F.A or higher degree, as well as those who’ve spent years on Broadway. Both may be equally qualified, but might have different teaching methods and skill sets. You will need to determine the type of instructors you prefer.

Talk to the Vocal Instructors

Musical theater is nothing without the “music” part of the name. Thankfully, colleges usually have vocal coaches and professors to help students learn how to sing professionally. To determine if you’ll be compatible with the vocal instructors and if you’ll like their teaching methods, meet with them, and ask questions.

Go Over Course Syllabi

Obviously, earning a college degree in musical theatre requires you to attend classes, not just spend your time on stage. Yes, live performances are a part of it, but you’ll have to take classes in choreography, blocking, acting, the history of theatre, and more. In order to see which classes you’ll be required to take at a certain school, ask to see their past syllabi. Take a look at the course progression and check out the materials, such as books, which are needed for the classes. This will give you a good indication of how the program is run.

Take a Look at the Upcoming Performances

There’s little point in attending a musical theatre program at a school that doesn’t have a stage or offer live performances. After all, how will you gain valuable audition experience with no shows for which to audition? Where will you get to use the skills you are learning in front of a live audience? Check with the school to see how many of these theatrical performances they put on a year.

Ask About Connections

Getting a job on Broadway requires more than just raw talent. You also need to have the right connections. Ask the colleges you are considering about the relationships that they have with local or national theater organizations.

Choosing Dean College to Fulfill Your Musical Theater Dreams

Have you decided that musical theater is the major for you? If so, then check out our theatre degree program, which includes concentrations in musical theatre, acting, production, design, and more. You’ll gain all of the skills that you need in order to start your journey toward your dream job. Request more information, today!