Internship vs. Summer Classes

College Majors Musical Theater Majors
1

<p>I am currently a sophomore in the BFA Music Theatre program at Jacksonville University. I transferred to JU this past fall from a school where I was a Theatre Performance major. Needless to say, I am catching up on my music theory classes, but I am still on track to graduate on time in April/May 2012.</p>

<p>I love the community here on CC and I need some input.</p>

<p>I have applied to a few internships in the Washington, DC area, none of which are performance based internships. They are more in the marketing/ PR end of theatre, which I am interested in since I am starting a minor in Communications this fall. I haven’t heard back yet from any of the companies but there is a possibility that I may still get an offer. I also have family up there and I would love to spend the summer up in the area. </p>

<p>But I have been thinking recently that I should just stay in Jacksonville over the summer (since I’m moving into a new apartment in a month) and continue to take voice lessons with my teacher, take a few classes, and possibly do a community theatre show. However, I am almost done with my general education requirements (I only have 3 more to do) so my options are limited. There is a professional dinner theatre here that I could audition for but I doubt that I will get any sort of work with them. </p>

<p>Ok, so I’m not sure if this post makes any sense…I’m a bit on the sleepy side currently! </p>

<p>In short, I guess what I am asking is: what is better? Go to DC if I get an internship offer and spend time with my aunts and cousins, OR stay in Jacksonville- take a few classes, maybe do a show, and just work on my musicianship skills overall (piano, voice, sight singing, maybe pick up my flute again which I haven’t played in a few years)? </p>

<p>Thanks everyone!!! I love how helpful this site is! :)</p>

2

<p>I recommend you take the internship ESPECIALLY if it’s paid. </p>

<p>You’ll learn a different side of theatre and one that is no less important than performing considering that without good PR/marketing shows close and performers are out of work! Plus you are picking up communications as a minor and the internship will help you see the practical side as opposed to just the academics of it. </p>

<p>You will get to spend time with family AND you will make connections in the DC area which could eventually lead to performance opportunities. It always helps to know someone when you are trying to get your foot in the door and a good work ethic will be remembered. </p>

<p>You might still have some time to work on your musicianship skills but even if not by the time you return to Jacksonville you will be refreshed and ready to go. </p>

<p>If you don’t get the internship it’s decided for you anyway and you already have a back up plan in Jacksonville. Good luck! :)</p>

3

<p>Is there any reason you can’t take vocal lessons and audition for theatres in DC? There are lots of great theatres in the area and I am sure great vocal teachers as well. That way you are getting the “best of both worlds” so to speak.</p>

<p>Good luck with the internships. Hope you land one of them!</p>