My son went to a university that did not meet full need. When his little sibling began college, his FAFSA EFC dropped from the full cost of attendance to $22,000 a year which was less than 1/2 the cost of attendance. He got a rousing $250 added to his merit award, and Not a nickel more of need based aid.
I would not count on getting additional money, and certainly not a substantial amount, in subsequent years. This school does not meet full need. Their only real obligation to you in terms of aid is the Direct Loan your kid can get. It will be $6500 for her second year.
I think you are hoping for grant money…I would suggest you not hope for that.
Purchase used to have a fabulous theater tech program. As @happymomof1 noted, there will be some changes to how these programs need to operate given that the lights are dark at all performing arts venues right now.
My husband was a theater techie who freelanced in NYC for a number of years. We still have a number of friends working in the industry. They are all unemployed right now, and are very worried about the future right now.
That being the case…I’d go for a place where the cost is affordable, and hopefully college debt can be at a bare minimum to none.