Hi there! So I’ve been looking into SUNY Fredonia for MT, and recently realized that SUNY Buffalo, Cortland, and Geneseo also offer MT degrees. I was wondering if anyone could give me some insight on the differences between these programs, the quality of training/experiences, if one is considered the “best” compared to the others, etc. I’m not too particular about B.F.A. vs. B.A., so I’m open to looking at all of them. Thanks!
My S is a freshman BFA acting major at Fredonia and the whole freshman class (Actors, MTs, Theatre Arts) is very close. His MT friends have an intense schedule with their intro classes, voice, acting, and dance classes/lessons, and required events (concerts, masterclasses, etc). We saw a musical production there and the voices were amazing–some of the best nonprofessional theater voices I’ve heard (not so surprising for such a strong music school). The dancing wasn’t a huge part of this particular show so I can’t speak to the dance instruction but I know they’ve increased their focus on dance in recent years. Since it’s such an artsy school there are seemingly unlimited opportunities to participate in and see a variety of performances in and around campus. Many extracurricular theater, acapella, dance, and instrumental opportunities. MANY opportunities for students to run groups and performances as well. My daughter was an acting major at a school that respected the arts but was more academically focused and I’m floored by my son’s experiences in just two months as compared to my daughter’s in four years.
Thanks for the reply! It sounds like a great program and school. One of my high school drama teachers went there for acting and recommended it, but that was a long time ago hahaha so it’s good to hear it’s still so great! With the rigor of the BFA programs, do you know if it’s possible to minor in a non-arts subject? It’s not a must for me, but I do have other interests, so it’s something I’m trying to consider when looking at programs.
Minoring is possible. Easier for Acting majors than for MTs but it can be done. If you have done well on the AP exams in high school, that’s especially helpful if you want want a minor. There are also a number of upper-level theater department classes that aren’t required but that can fill your schedule to personalize your experience (stage combat, acting for media, improv, etc).
It’s a small school in a small town that can be very cold and snowy in the winter. I’m not sure where you are in NY, but if that’s not what you’re used to, keep that in mind.
Thank you!