| Some MT programs have the same restrictions. My D is a sophomore at Syracuse, and was not allowed to audition for main-stage productions until the end of Freshman year, when shows are cast for the following fall semester. The reason given? Students need to be on the same page with their basic acting training; and many have bad habits that need changing.
At first we felt this was a drawback of the program, but in retrospect are very happy the department has this policy, for several reasons:
1. Freshman year was VERY demanding, both physically and emotionally. At Syracuse they call the first year of training "boot camp". A full schedule of classes, plus rehearsals for class-work, backstage work, actual homework and the usual first-year adjustments would have left little time or energy for additional rehearsals. My D has found she is much better at managing her time this year, and is currently rehearsing for her second main-stage production of the year. Even so, she had a few near melt-downs during fall semester while trying to do it all!
2. Another unexpected benefit -- many close friendships were formed during freshman year, when students were not competing for roles. This year, they have been able to maintain those relationships even though they are now in more direct competition with each other.
3. Another point to keep in mind -- at schools where freshman are allowed to audition, there is no guarantee that they will be cast! Don't forget, they will be competing for roles with older, more experienced students who have already developed relationships with the instructors and professors.
I know this is a somewhat controversial issue -- just keep in mind that many schools have this policy for some very solid reasons. |