<p>There’s some great conversations going on here so I’ll just add two comments:</p>
<p>1) While there is a difference between stage acting and film/tape acting most CDs and Agents like to see theatre training. It’s always easier to “calm down” a stage actor than “pull out” a film actor. The basics are the same, the tweaking is why many schools include film acting specifically as just one course. Many schools with impressive theatre programs also have impressive film programs and take the actors for their productions from the theatre department which gives theatre students film credits for their resumes and material for their reels.</p>
<p>2) I’m not going to try to convince you that your daughter is missing out on a good number of really great programs by automatically eliminating non-audition BFA and BA programs, that’s you business and your decision. But as many have said, it is a very competitive ordeal getting into an audition program and if you need some sort of financial aid in addition that just adds another whole complication to the whole process. But, if your daughter would rather take a gap year than open up more options, then I would suggest she perhaps look into a year long program at a well respected conservatory for her gap year. None of the credits or classes will carry over to her college in the end but she will get great training that will help her with the college audition process the following year. If it’s okay with you, she may decide to continue at the conservatory for a second year and be done with higher education. And yes, many offer financial aid, loans, scholarships, etc.</p>
<p>I guess what I’m saying is that you need to have a clear picture of the “what if?” What if she doesn’t get into any audition program, what, specifically, is the alternative? At the least, she must continue to train at least a few times a week, at the most, she could go full time at a conservatory. (CAP21 for example)</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>PS - You might want to look at Backstage - they have a few issues that offer different conservatory-type options and the different programs they offer. You might not need it (hopefully not) but again, you should be prepared.</p>