<p>Draco-I do agree a bit with you when it comes to MT programs. I might argue that not all kids entering BFA MT programs are truly professional level, but most who get admission into well known programs are very well trained. Schools are looking for trained students who need polishing. Occasionally they accept students who have had very little training and experience whose talent is undeniably stellar–they are just really raw. But I think it’s a little unfair to get too upset over the matter. This is the case with most fine and performing arts degrees. Applicants are expected to have a lot of previous experience or demonstrate extreme amounts of potential if their portfolio or resume is not extensive. Dancers are expected to have begun dancing as early as they have been able to walk. Musicians usually have been studying music since elementary school and began playing their primary instrument in middle school at the latest. Art students probably have been drawing and sketching as long as they can remember and probably took AP Studio Art in HS if they didn’t get outside lessons.
And I tend to think BFA Acting programs look for even less polish. In comparison to MT programs, the students who attend the “top” programs come from extremely different backgrounds. Some started acting in HS…others come from theatre families. Or others may have been acting since a child but never really received previous training prior to conservatory.
And it’s extremely difficult to judge auditions from videos. Just like live theatre, videos are unable to capture the true essence and energy of a live piece. Also, auditors like to have live auditions in order to work with students immediately after they see them do their pieces.</p>