For Kids Who Were Declined by MT Programs

College Majors Musical Theater Majors
1

<p>My heart breaks for the kids who have posted here about not being accepted…and many have posted that those programs aren’t guarantees of success in the business nor are they the only avenue. Here’s a link to a news story about a local (Philadelphia) girl making her B’way debut without having a powerhouse MT degree behind her: </p>

<p>[Rose</a> Hemingway in ‘How to Succeed,’ succeeding nicely | Philadelphia Inquirer | 03/31/2011](<a href=“http://www.philly.com/philly/entertainment/20110331_Rose_Hemingway_in__How_to_Succeed___succeeding_nicely.html]Rose”>Rose Hemingway in 'How to Succeed,' succeeding nicely)</p>

<p>She attended a very good private school but not an arts school…took gymnastics as a kid…did school shows and glee club…did theatre at her neighborhood recreation center and joined a kids’ group at a local theatre. She went to Catholic University and got some ensemble roles in shows but no leads. After graduation she moved to NYC (no Equity card, no showcase, no agent) and auditioned for shows. She got cast in a tour, which led to another tour and other shows, which led eventually to the female lead role in How to Succeed.</p>

<p>I hope this encourages you who are truly driven to pursue your dreams through whatever academic avenue has been opened to you.</p>

2

<p>Skwidjymom - Thanks for posting this. I sent this to my D who is a freshman in a MT program.</p>

3

<p>Skwidjymom, great story and great timing. :)</p>

4

<p>The article mentions that prior to college Rose Hemingway was a member of Prince Music Theatre’s Rainbow Company in Philadelphia.</p>

<p>Rainbow Company was a semi-professional group that provided some very good training for the kids. Unfortunately, it no longer exists.</p>

5

<p>Great article, Skwidjymom.</p>

6

<p>Rose is a talented young woman and her willingness to take on the very small role of Mary Phagan in the L.A. production of the Donmar transfer of Parade is likely largely responsible for her Broadway debut. That was a fabulous production with an incredible cast and Rob Ashford was very impressed with Rose.</p>

7

<p>I saw this production of Parade too – and it was an amazing cast indeed!!</p>