Hey everyone, I’ve been a long time lurker here but this is my first post. I decided that it was time to ask for advice after receiving news that I was not accepted into Roosevelt CCPA’s MT program. I have however been accepted into Columbia College Chicago and am still waiting to hear back from Northwestern University. The reason I’m posting is to ask for advice on taking a gap year in Chicago. I’ve heard that it is a viable option and am interested in seeing if others agree. In this gap year, I would move to Chicago, take dance at a studio, high quality vocal lessons and acting classes and most likely find a regular job to help pay for my expenses. I think this would be a good time for me to grow as a performer and recieve the much needed training that was my downfall at college auditions this year. Then, next year I would audition again for Roosevelt as well as a wider variety of programs and then take things from there. I have consulted my parents about this and while they support me, they would like a more detailed plan as well as a financial outlook before they give me their final answer. My questions are whether this is a good idea or not and if anyone can provide me insight into the logistics of such a gap year as well as recommendations for Chicago voice teachers, acting and dance studios, and also insight to living in Chicago. Thanks so much.
While I can’t speak to many of your logistical questions about living or studying in Chicago, since our D is just finishing school and so far has only lived and studied in Evanston, I will say that there seems to be something special happening in Chicago’s theatre scene recently. From what I understand the city has long been known for amazing acting (think Steppenwolf, Goodman, Chicago Shakespeare, Lookinglass, etc.), but more recently there seems to be a thriving MT scene taking shape as well, both downtown and in the surrounding suburbs. Last I checked there are over 150 theatre companies operating in and around the city (including some really interesting storefront companies who share spaces), and it seems that there is also increasing exchange of talent and ideas between Chicago and NYC. Here’s an article that speaks to some of this…
Best of luck in your decision, and I hope others can add suggestions for great local voice, dance and acting coaches as I’d be interested in that as well.
@Teedpop Read this (post #2418)
http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/discussion/comment/18161597/#Comment_18161597