<p>S did community theatre while at HS, but only as part of the ensemble. He got some great experience, but it didn’t get in the way of his grades, and the productions kind of worked in between his high school productions.</p>
<p>I will say this - I saw a quote from a Juilliard admissions person who said that they were not looking for just the big fish from the little pond (she/he was referring to high school), but hopefully those who at least made a few trips to the lake!! I thought that was wonderful! They don’t expect kids to get the lead in HS and the lead in community theaters, too, but it is great to work outside the school for another director/company. All good experiences.</p>
<p>My son’s drama teacher was supportive and instrumental in helping my son audition for roles in community theater while in hs. He only did this at the end of jr yr and beginning of sr. yr. It was extremely challenging to balance school work, hs theater, community theater and varsity basketball. I’m extremely proud that he was able to manage it all. He met a variety of people in community theater that gave him great perspective and advice. A lot of planning went into this though–he only took 3 AP classes senior year in anticipation of the hectic college audition process and did online summer classes earlier in hs so he could take a tech and research class without a lot of homework sr. yr. </p>
<p>Each individual is unique and needs to chart their own path though, based on their personal needs.</p>