If you are interested is a program that is somewhat “local” for you, you might want to consider the Rutgers Summer Acting Conservatory in New Brunswick, NJ. There is a musical theatre track of 12 to 14 students, but the primary focus of the program is on developing acting skills. My daughter attended this program for two years and still (she is now an MT BFA junior) and still has high regard for her experiences there. Acting teachers came from the Mason Gross School faculty and maintained very high performance expectations. It was an intense experience, but it was there that she first discovered the intellectual complexity of the acting craft. They also offer financial aid through a Dodge Foundation grant, so that may be helpful, as well. I can’t honestly comment on selectivity (it is an auditioned program), but I do know that a number of her classmates received BFA program offers from a number of highly-regarded programs in the east which suggests some sincerity on the part of participants.
@theaterwork - if I recall correctly mpulse (Michigan) and Ithaca were the most reasonable- but college programs tend to be fairly pricey.
I don’t mean to sound naive I know these programs are expensive. Everything in MT is lol! We are going to make a list and compare location and prices. I already am making college lists too and D is a sophomore. It pays to do stuff in advance in this field I believe. Much crazier then I thpught!
As you look at college programs be sure to note when you can do them too. Many are open to rising juniors, but some are only for rising seniors. Also- if I recall, lots of programs had early March deadlines
I just updated my D’s spreadsheet for summer programs (I needed to have her triple check deadlines). We’re taping her audition monologues this week and next weekend for the few that require them and she’ll be submitted (round 1 in a long process). The Decision Desk/Acceptd taping is good practice for next year!
I am not very tech savvy so not sure how to post links for you - but there are a lot of great threads in this forum on MT summer programs, their pros/cons, etc… If you do a search of CC you’ll find a tremendous amount of info. You could start with the “big list of summer programs” at the top of this forum.
Having said that: You may want to consider IU or CCM. They both have summer programs and wouldn’t be too far from you. I believe I’ve read that UArts in Philly also has a camp that may be worth looking into.
We know a boy who did the Savannah camp last summer and is going back this summer. He loved it.
Check the Big List Of Summer Programs list. It was recently updated. It’s a great place to start research for the right summer program for your S or D.
OP, if you are wanting to stay local and save money, I would look at what might be offered at regional theaters in your area. We have some very good and affordable summer programs at LORT theaters in our area, and I imagine you may, too. If you don’t want to look too far afield this summer for financial and personal reasons, I wouldn’t worry. I don’t think it’s necessary to go to a nationally competitive program in order to learn, grow, have fun, and prepare for college. The only thing you cannot really replicate at a more local or regional program is the exposure to a national talent pool.
Last summer my D attended the Boston Conservatory Vocal Choral Intensive (audition). All singing (not acting), but it made her realize she wanted to major in MT and not vocal performance. At the same time, she auditioned for a local professional production and was cast in their ensemble with Equity actors (she was one of a few high school students they cast). She earned her EMC (Equity Membership Candidacy) card and she said the learning experience there beat any summer theatre camp she’s attended (the director was Tony nominated). And it was free! Another avenue to consider for summer.
She’s been accepted to two college MT programs so far.
NHSI Cherubs program at Northwestern University is amazing! Quality instruction during the day and rehearsals in the evening. It’s a 5 week drama program with a 2 week MT extension option. Only for rising Seniors, so everyone is the same age. My daughter has attended several different summer training programs, and Cherubs was her favorite. A real added perk for my daughter during audition season has been that everywhere we go there are fellow Cherubs to meet for coffee or a meal, trade audition notes, commiserate…it has made this whole process much more tolerable.