Musical Theatre Majoring?- I'm so skeptical!

<p>I've read so many threads and been scared to post my questions on them because the truth is, I'm just not sure what types of questions to be asking. I am a Junior in high school and midway through my college search I'd say I had somewhat of an "epiphany" that I love theatre too much NOT to pursue it. My sister is currently majoring in drama at Yale, but knew since birth that that was the right path for her. I'm scared to look into colleges with BAs or BFAs because I fear that my high school drama club experience isn't up to par for those schools. I'm not sure how to go about figuring out if this is true or not, or what other opportunities for theatre there would be at college (beyond student run theatre) but the truth is, I really think I can do this. Any advice would be beyond appreciated!</p>

<p>It's hard to know where to start with advice, until we know a bit more about you and your background. How successful have you been in your high school drama club? Have you done any other types of theater? Have you had any private instruction in dance, singing, or acting? </p>

<p>If you are fairly new to the whole theater thing, you might be wise to focus on non-audition BA schools. Many are excellent. That doesn't mean that you can't look at BFA schools too, but keep in mind that acceptance rates to these programs are quite low; auditions tend to be highly competitive.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, you have less than a year to prepare. Think about signing up for one of the pre-college summer programs, or a summer performing arts program. If you can, try to find a coach who can help you improve your skills. (Your sister probably has some good advice for you, too.) And don't be scared -- sometimes you just have to go for it.</p>

<p>thanks onstage-</p>

<p>As for experience, I've been in a company for 9 years that focuses on dance and done 2 shows a year for them. I have also been teaching younger kids in dance for the past 2 year.In HS drama I played Dolly Levi in "Hello Dolly" my sophomore year and I'm currently playing Audrey in "Little Shop of Horrors." Not sure what else to add...</p>

<p>Dani- </p>

<p>If possible it would really be great if you could get into one of the summer programs. You could assess where you stand and also get feedback from people in the program. Since you are a junior you have time to do this.</p>

<p>And as someone whose daughter, also a kid with tons of dance experience who had her "aha!" moment regarding musical theatre...start looking into the requirements for the summer pre-college programs NOW. Some have application deadlines in early Feb, and most will require a DVD audition, some want HS transcripts, etc. It's just a matter of getting things together, if you decide to audition for a summer "away" program. </p>

<p>As others have said, think about what you can do to prepare...it's hard when you're dancing a lot to add other training, but it can be done. Are you doing classes outside of dance (voice, acting, piano?)? Talk to other people who are in the field -- maybe your director knows a bit and can discuss a good plan for you. (D's high school counsellor knew nothing about musical theatre, but her choir director has been a good resource.)</p>

<p>Have fun with Little Shop -- that's the spring show here. My kiddo (only a sophomore) is a Doo Wop. Fun!</p>