I have in my mind a very solid idea of what I want in a school, but I can’t seem to find a school that fits my requirements. I want to double major in theatre and something else (probably communications?), so a BFA program that does not allow students to double major will not work. Additionally, I want a theatre program that includes musical theatre. This does not mean that they must offer a musical theatre major, just that I want to avoid any schools who never produce musicals and offer no vocal and dance instruction.
As far as any other criteria, I would prefer a school in the Midwest or New England areas, and would prefer a school in a more urban area, although suburbs would be fine. I have a very good academic record, so general admission is not a concern.
I’m so frustrated at the difficulty of finding the right school, so I would greatly appreciate any suggestions. Thank you so much!
Are you willing to minor instead of double major? If so, Boston University sounds like a good fit for you. Urban setting, strong acting program (with an optional concentration in musical theater), with the ability to minor in other things.
Elon and Hartt also have musical theater majors and allow you to minor in other things. Due to the intensity of a BFA program, I’m not familiar with any that will allow you to double major (though I’m sure they exist). If you really want to double major, I would consider getting a BA as opposed to a BFA.
A little further South, but not too far afield…
American University, DC
James Madison University, VA
Both are auditioned programs.
You may also want to look at Wesleyan in CT, Skidmore in NY, Goucher, MD, Muhlenberg, PA. They are not specific musical theatre programs, but are solid liberal arts colleges with programs. It is possible to double major and they do musicals.
You could do a BA in Theatre Arts and a BA Communications at Ball State in Indiana. All theatre students are allowed to audition for shows, though you would be competing with the BFAs.
Wagner College in Staten Island, NY (a ferry ride away from Manhattan!) has a BA in theatre that includes mt training (voice lessons & a few dance classes) and they have several performance opportunities in the form of both plays and musicals.