<p>Re: Post #19: I’m not sure why someone who is interested in majoring in theater would go to a school that has “a lousy theater program”. In fact, I don’t understand the point of most of pacheight’s posts. The whole idea of this discussion group is to help aspiring performers to do their research and find the best college program possible. If they (and their parents) are not interested in college, they probably aren’t participating in this group! </p>
<p>Students in a good BFA or BA theater program have the advantage of 4 more years of education, training, and performing experience. Many of them do summer stock, where they get additional training and experience. It is not necessary for the college to be located in NYC; some of the best programs are located elsewhere. Browse through a Playbill the next time you see a Broadway show, and take note of the bios. You will see many mentions of CMU, CCM, U-M, Syracuse, and others.</p>
<p>It’s true that college is not for everyone – I have coached students who weren’t suited academically for college. Some have, indeed, gone to NYC or LA to pursue other training, and start professional auditions. Guess what? The most frequent comment they all got from casting directors was: “Why aren’t you in college?” Seriously. It took several years before any of these kids had even the smallest success – and in many cases it was because they were just too young, or hadn’t had enough training/experience.</p>
<p>Forty or fifty years ago, it was pretty common for 18-year-olds to come to the Big City and start making the rounds. This is no longer the case. There are far fewer jobs out there now, and not many opportunities for this age group, particularly in the area of live theater. I really don’t advise it, and I doubt if any parents on this board would be happy to see their 18-year-olds trying to make it on their own.</p>