<p>We have a talented young man that has been living with us for over a year and a half. He graduated HS in May, but academics are not his strength. He is thinking he would be interested in a conservatory program (he is a strong singer/character actor but has little professional training). AAMDA is holding auditions in our area soon and has been calling him repeatedly. Does anyone on this forum have any advice to offer?? It seems I remember reading (somewhere) some not-too-positive stuff about AAMDA...</p>
<p>Thanks so much for the reply. For some reason, I wanted the initials to be for "American Academy....", and therefore my search of the site yielded nothing. DUH!!! I will go forth and investigate!</p>
<p>I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but AMDA is NOT respected in the professional world. Before I get flamed, let me say that I know MANY talented people who have graduated from there and are working - and 15 years ago, it had a really good reputation. But it has deteriorated and now it is viewed as such a mercenary actor mill, really accepting nearly everyone who auditions and can pay, that my friends who are AMDA grads deliberatey REMOVE it from their resumes - in contrast to other programs such as CCM, CMU, NYU, UM, etc., where grads are proud to have their training as part of their resume (and where it can truly open doors in auditions). </p>
<p>Its nickname in the business says it all: "Scamda." </p>
<p>Again, I do not disrespect the talents of many who go there - but the training? Not so good AT ALL - their are many situations which would be FAR better for your young friend. PM me if you'd like to discuss those options more - I've helped many students in the same situation find the "best fit" for them.</p>