Strong yet Flexible Musical Theatre?

<p>Hi all!
I'm a rising senior from Maryland looking to apply to colleges with strong theatre/musical theatre programs. I've struggled with defining what type of theatre program I would like. I see strong benefits to the BA program, as I would like to double major so as not to put all my eggs in the shaky theatre basket. I would like to study some type of social or political science. However, I do want a really good theatre program, as I really would like to take a shot at acting. I also really enjoy musical theatre. I would enjoy a theatre program which offered a musical theatre major, minor, focus, or even just a program that did a number of musicals. At the same time, though, I would like to maintain flexibility, in order to get the double major.
I've researched a few colleges nearby, and the Big List of MT by program has been super-helpful. Unfortunately, I find it difficult to sort through all the schools available and find how close each school is to what I want. As I've visited schools, I've realized how wide the spectrum is in terms of BFA vs BA and intensity.
This is kind of confusing to understand; heck, this whole process is confusing to me. But if anyone can help at all, I'd be /very/ grateful.
Thanks!!
~Sarah</p>

<p>((tl;dr: I want a strong, yet flexible theatre program with lots of musicals. Any help??))</p>

<p>Sarah, you might look at NU’s musical theatre certificate - <a href=“https://www.communication.northwestern.edu/programs/certificate_music_theatre/”>https://www.communication.northwestern.edu/programs/certificate_music_theatre/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

<p>I know a lot of NU theatre kids double major, and I’m assuming some NU MT certificate kids also double major, but I’m not sure. If you’re interested there are some NU parents on college confidential that could give you more insight.</p>

<p>This would be a “strong, yet flexible theatre program with lots of musicals” IMHO.</p>

<p>Look at James Madison University in VA. Strong, flexible, auditioned BA program… </p>

<p>Quite a few students in the Theatre program do double major. Theatre students can take dance, voice class, and certain musical theatre classes, as well as audition for all musicals. usually do 5 - 7 musicals per year (in addition to plays).</p>

<p>There are also a few students in the Musical Theatre who double major… this is easier with certain majors, and for students who come in with AP, IB, or dual enrollment credit. Musical Theatre majors also audition for plays. </p>

<p>email me at <a href=“mailto:arecchkm@jmu.edu”>arecchkm@jmu.edu</a> if you have any specific questions.</p>

<p>Yes, Northwestern musical theatre kids can and do double major. It’s quite common and very doable with their quarter system. You would apply to the Theatre Department in the School of Communication. Then as a freshman or sophomore, audition for their musical theatre certificate program. There are lots of opportunities to perform in musicals, either main stage or student-run. You can choose a second major (or minor) outside of the School of Communication. NU also has lots of a Capella groups if you’re interested.</p>