Strong Theater & Academics

momofzag
Wed, 04 Jul 2018 01:50:16 +0000

I agree with others who advise to think carefully about what student is looking for. My D just graduated from Bucknell as a theatre major. Perhaps not a school that comes immediately to mind as super strong in theater but I think pretty respectable for strong academics. The benefit of a place like Bucknell with a small program (usually under 10 majors in each class including tech, acting etc) is that there are tons of opportunities to get involved in whatever capacity one wants starting right away. Both majors and non majors are cast in faculty productions (which have been of very good quality) and the community is very close. My D is on first name basis with every member of the theater and dance faculty and has gotten LORs etc. so have her non major friends who have participated in productions alongside the majors. Students can direct, choreograph etc. and I think that can happen at many LACs or smaller universities. Sometimes the competition at programs that are larger and/or filled with BFA candidates makes it very tough for non majors to participate and/or feel truly part of the community.

BTW. My D also was considering Connecticut College as a place with robust performing arts.

Wesleyan of course is known for film and the performing arts as well as strong academics.