<p>matthew, I’m not sure you’re using the right perspective in evaluating this. First, 11 weeks for $3,500, including room and board, is CHEAP (think about a college term!). Many of the summer theatre programs talked about here are twice that for half the time. </p>
<p>Second, what do you mean by “worth it”? Not enough of a “name”? Not in the “right” location? I have to say I’m confused. Are you doing this to enhance your application, or to have valuable experience? There is no reason to do programs - or do anything - based on whether it will “look” good enough to colleges. First of all, just about all of them don’t look at your application that way, and second, it’s all about what you bring to the audition. If you’ve learned a lot and had experiences that matter to you, THAT’s worthwhile.</p>
<p>If you’re trying to justify spending your summer this way (like to your parents), the truth is that you could stay home and get involved in community theatre for free - if you have good mentors there and there are good opportunities, it could be a great summer. But if this is something you think you would learn from, and the family budget will allow it, it seems like a pretty good deal.</p>
<p>I’m a little offended at your expression “essentially useless as community involvement.” I’m curious what you would think is “useful.” There are so many wonderful things happening in theatre all over the country that to dismiss - or even question - the inherent worth of this kind of program like that is really quite insulting. And to think that colleges will look down on them shows that you really don’t understand what theatre programs value. Open yourself up to a good discussion of what is really important here.</p>
<p>Also, I have to say I’m confused by your age. If you are already 18, and you haven’t applied to college yet, are you in a gap year? Are you a very old junior? Can you fill us in on your particular situation more, so we can understand your particular goals?</p>