Anyone know of PACE University’s BA Acting International Performing Ensemble? Any graduates? Never heard of this type of program. Any pros or cons?
@LusbyMom The kid who led our tour at Pace was an IPE major. He seemed quite happy with it (of course he was the tour-guide, so…). As I recall, there is more of a study-abroad aspect to it, with opportunities to work with theatre companies in Europe, etc. And it struck me as something like a “devised theatre” program. At least that’s my recollection (many of these things are blurring together).
Thank you nyermom. That’s the impression I got when we initially visited. We were enticed by the prospect of acting, directing, creating plays all in the first year and study abroad in the third year. My S is in interested in all aspects of theater but acting is his passion. Wanting to make sure this is a program preparing S to get a job after college before we go into debt. Thanks.
My S has been accepted to a number of BFA programs but is most excited about the opportunities this his acceptance into this BA affords. It’s like nothing else he has come across BFA or not and in an industry where you need to set yourself apart the work IPE does seems like a fantasy to do that. He does have a friend in the program who is a sophomore and we as parents have been impressed with all the cool options/experiences she has. It’s far from your average BA. In the end we will weigh all S’s options but he feels strongly about looking for something that’s not what everyone else is bringing to the table. 
Thanks @JJMom. I think I’m sold on PACE. I’m hoping the final FA will bring the price within reach. He received the Presidential Scholarship but that’s all.
@JJMmom @nyermom - I have been PMing @LusbyMom about the Pace IPE because I have a senior and freshman in the program. So it has the parental seal of approval for sure. If you PM me I can share their contact info.
Yes - this is devised theatre and the first one launched (some other programs have been modeled upon it since - best form of flattery - but none come close to the original).
It is the entire creative process working as an ensemble. The acting training is superb too. Many have booked jobs while still a student (to include film too). I think it really prepares them for the theatre workplace because they leave with strong and flexible skill set (vs focusing only on performance).
Another plus is that many can get a minor with careful crafting of electives (my son has) some add some summer credits to get a double major too.
@coronado I don’t think I can pm you. I would love to connect. My S has been feeling " pulled in a new direction" for a few years here up ‘north’ - either you understood that reference or I just embarrassed myself. Either way can you PM me. Thanks!
Anyone’s kid heading to onr of the Pace Performing Arts admitted students overnights?
Unfortunately, no. My S went to the overnight March 3rd and it sold him. He said I should have gone. I thought it was for students only but parents were there and lots more information than the normal visit tour.
Mine was scheduled for one in March and then we decided to reschedule for April in hopes of an Acting Program acceptance. The agenda for Friday for the Performing Arts portion looks more student oriented and stuff for parents more on Saturday. @coronado can you weigh in? Stuff for parents on Friday? We were just going to drop and run Fri and come back Sat morning.
@workinggirl25 - I recall that Friday was just a drop off (but confirm with the agenda). I think they even said - nothing for PPA parents until Saturday.
If your S doesn’t connect with other IPE accepted students beforehand - not to worry. The IPE kids are so welcoming that the nerves will dissipate quickly. Also - feel free to connect with my kids in advance (emails in PM) so he has a friendly face in advance.
The overnight experience cinched it for mine too —- “felt like home”, eyes lit up…so you’ll know if it is a fit (or not) at the end of the weekend.
Also - you can post on the MT and BFA acting threads to find other PPA kids going that weekend. The programs do mix socially.
I had a feeling and am glad Friday is a drop and go. But I’ll check.Time to let them spread their wings! Thanks @coronado you have been such a huge help in this process!
@coronado Hi! I was accepted into the BA Program at Pace a few weeks ago, I can’t PM yet, but I’d love to talk to you about the program. I have a few questions!
All - glad to discover this thread. My S is accepted to the IPE and loved the overnight program April 5-6. Thanks @JJMmom for your observation about programs that ‘set yourself apart’ and @coronado for the parental seal of approval! We have one more college visit before committing. Would love to PM with all of you including @LusbyMom @nyermom and @workinggirl25 as it sounds like our seniors may be attending this program together.
@EliseD would love to keep up with you, @coronado @LusbyMom @nyermom also. My S went to the overnight this weekend and LOVED it! He had minimal reservations about the school going in and now they are completely irrevelent.
@EliseD - I just PM’d you with contact info for S (senior), D (freshman), and me if you have any questions.
Glad to hear that @workinggirl25 S enjoyed the overnight - that sealed the deal for my D after struggling between great choices.
In addition to @LusbyMom, @nyermom - don’t forget @JJMmom too!
@EliseD My S got into NYU but can’t afford. I knew nothing of PACE or IPE and @coronado relieved me of any worries. Unfortunately S knew he couldn’t make this weekend, due to performance, so he went early March and was sold. S loves everything about theater but acting the most. I believe PACE BA Acting IPE is the best fit! (And, it’s less expensive than NYU.) If your S decides on PACE and wants to connect, PM me. My S is looking for his classmates.
@LusbyMom would you PM me for starters? I don’t have a ‘new message’ button and found a thread which stated: “You need to have at least 15 posts in order to utilize that feature.” Don’t know if that’s true or not, but would like to connect with anyone on this thread. Thx!
@EliseD Congrats on the IPE acceptance! It looks like an exciting program. Unfortunately my D was not actually accepted (and she was only applying for FTVC), but I recall that our student tour guide was happy he was in it. As you can guess from my sceen-name, we’re local. Last week, as I went to a doctor appointment directly across from the dorm, it occurred to me that it was probably for the best that it won’t be an option NYC can be a small town at times.
All - so our children’s journey has ended and new doors open! My son committed to the Pace IPE program with conviction and enthusiasm. Thank you @workinggirl25 @LusbyMom @nyermom @JJMmom @coronado @SceneStealer for the contributions to this conversation as our young actors found their way into the class of 2023. The next phase begins!