<p>Seeking information on the tech theatre programs at UCLA and CalArts. Beyond the BA/BFA decision... We've studied the websites, etc. Now looking deeper. Interesed in any and all information plus opinions both pro and con. Especially interested in feedback on quality of tech programs, professors, network opportunities, campus life and anything else!</p>
<p>CalArts is a very different place. I would make sure you visit the school. Some people just love the atmosphere and some find it not to their liking, (my S did not feel comfortable there). One thing we realized when we visited is that you really need a car out there. It is "off the beaten path" as you might say. It is very close to Magic Mountain ammusement park in Valencia.</p>
<p>There are a lot of ties to Disney. That could be a good thing I would think.</p>
<p>Cal Arts is very small whereas UCLA is very big. That is something to take into consideration. I would think if you wanted more of a liberal arts education you would want to be at UCLA.</p>
<p>my daughter was recently accepted to CalArts and is very excited about going there. I'm trying to get more info. We are a bit nervous.</p>
<p>Heres some impressions that might give some insight on CalArts--on one day we visited, they put on quite the show.</p>
<p>It was a school day, and as we walked up to the front entrance, a group of students were doing tai-chi on the lawn.
While we waited for our tour, we peeked into the dance theatre and watched a group of dancers rehearse, doing series of leaps back and forth in relays across the stage, it was like watching gazelles crossing the plains.
As we walked along the hallways where the rehearsal rooms were you could hear either the tinkle of a piano practicing an amazing complicated piece or African drum or some other instrument drifting from behind the closed doors.
As it was getting towards noon, just outside the cafeteria a band took up a spot in a corner and put on an impromptu show. Not hard rock music, sort of jazzier--there was a horn and bass player too. Pretty soon there were 50 students sitting around them, eating and taking it in. I heard it was a pretty typical lunchtime.
Everyone seemed to be doing something amazing and creative. Walls are covered with animation art. Talent and exuberance oozes from everywhere. The facilities and technology appeared very comprehensive, up-to-date, and well-cared for. I thought the energy there was very positive and alive. </p>
<p>But as we left my husband noted one other thing with somewhat of a sigh: he hadn't seen one of the students carrying a textbook, paper, or pencil.</p>
<p>It really depends what floats your boat.</p>
<p>Thanks for your reply. That is probably exactly why my daughter likes it! She has gone to private Catholic school her whole life and I think feels a bit stifled creatively. I like the idea that it is so small and that they have a mentor assigned to them from the start. She really more intereseted in screenwriting and filmaking so I'm not sure the firt is exactly what she has in mind. She's also applied to Otis. Thanks for the input.</p>