Millikin University - Decatur, IL

Tanaquil · 02-13-2008, 11:30 PM

so i've done a lot of searching on these boards for this school and not much has come up...

I'm auditioning here in March, and I'm really excited about it because this is my first choice school.
I just had my Unified auditions in LA this past weekend and I auditioned for UArts, and I'm really liking that school so now I'm kind of in a rut decision-wise. At UArts, they do stage combat and I LOVE stage combat. I've already been taking it since my freshman year, and I want to go to a college with stage combat but I don't think Millikin U has it, and thats a HUGE bummer.

Could somebody tell me more about the Millikin MT program?

And could you guys throw out your different opinions on these two schools, and just compare the two programs, locations, reputation, etc.?

Also feel free to PM me or email me with input.

Thank you!

Ninnynoddle · 02-14-2008, 12:12 AM

I've heard that Millikin cuts about half of their class by junior year. I don't know how accurate that is, though. If anyone would like to elaborate, I sure would love to hear an explanation, I really like this school except for that...

AZKMom · 02-14-2008, 06:54 AM

I also would like to hear more about this. My son will be auditioning there in March.

Alfieism · 02-14-2008, 08:18 AM

I don't think Millikin cuts. I auditioned there first because they tell you right away if you're in or now (I'm In!) and I can tell you I was pretty impressed by the program considering it's size and popularity. They have freshmen "hurdles" which are the juries, but I don't think there is any other type of "cutting" after that. They're musical has a cast of less than 10 this semester, though, so perhaps it's more of a general trend of BFA kids changing majors rather than cutting.

BWMT09 · 02-14-2008, 11:13 AM

According to a close friend who left the MT program after 3rd semester, they cut around half by Jr. year. Don't take this as fact, just something you might want to ask about at your audition.

JMPOnstage · 02-18-2008, 12:33 AM

ok let me give you some opinions on Milikin. These are not based on hard facts, I don't have stats to back them up so don't ask, however if you choose to put any weight behind this, I am extremely well-versed in the realm of mt, I have many friends and connections whom have appeared in leads, major roles, and dance captain positions on and off broadway as well as on tours. I also have many friends who are theatre professors. Sooo, I am not a fan of Milikin at all. this is not to say they don't have a good program. however, I know many people, whose opinion i credit, who have gone through the program and been far less than thrilled. I also know a professor there who is well respected, who is less than thrilled. Milikin has an attitude that they are on the same level as schools like ccm. they love to think that they are the best school around, and do little to improve upon what they have. As a performer and vocalist, i feel that so many students come out of there being cookie cutter actors. they are castable but only in that sense. a lot of this has to do with the vocal training they received. i am a huge advocate of vocal health and vocal health in belting because as we all know belting is an important tool, but it must be used correctly. a friend of mine whom is incredibly talented attends there. since she has been taking her level of skill in this area has decreased. the way she is belting now makes her more prone to injury. this is unforgivable on the part of the instructor. i also recently attended a production there. the production values of the show were weak at best. the production was definitely phoned in. yes, they are ultimately a good program and have had successful students however it is certainly not a choice i would make.

JMPOnstage · 02-18-2008, 12:36 AM

excuse my borderline incoherent grammar. it is late and i have a headache.

mesmom · 02-19-2008, 09:37 AM

I sent you a pm

kelsee422 · 02-19-2008, 11:57 AM

Yep, I go to Millikin.

I'm a former BFA MT, I transferred out of the BFA (I'm still a theatre major though) for some personal reasons....but I have no problem answering anyone's questions that they may have...so PM me if you'd like!

mesmom · 02-19-2008, 12:53 PM

i sent you a pm- thanks for your help!

mesmom · 02-27-2008, 10:45 AM

I noticed that Drake and Coastal Carolina have both been added to the list of MT forum schools. In reading through previous posts, I see that in the past people have requested that Millikin be added. Can anyone tell me how to make this request again, or who to address it to?

tzehrer · 03-01-2008, 04:14 PM

I attend Millikin University for BFA Musical theatre and I am so passionate about our program. I am a freshman this year so I remember what y'all are going through. Don't hesitate to ask me any questions about anything!

tzehrer · 03-01-2008, 04:20 PM

...and just to clear some things up...there aren't any cuts. You can however be "redirected" to either BFA acting or BA theatre depending on your progress in all three areas of performance (voice, dance, acting). If you are working really hard and make progress there is not much to worry about. It's seriously an amazing school! I am so happy with the decision I made!

tzehrer · 03-01-2008, 04:43 PM

Also, if any of you guys have aim---im me! TFZ15

Ericsmom · 03-01-2008, 11:47 PM

I agree with mesmom - this school needs to be added to the list at the top of the MT forum, but I have no idea how to do this. Can someone help?