Summer Pre-College Drama

Pre-College Drama introduces high school students to rigorous, conservatory style challenges. The length and depth of the summer conservatory-style program can lead to a stronger resolve to pursue a career in theater, helping students to understand the work involved and providing a clear picture of what the future holds. Or, students may discover that they value a wider, liberal arts undergraduate experience, where they could explore other options/college careers. Pre-College Drama isn't a summer camp. It's an intensive program modeled after our undergraduate BFA curriculum. Students should arrive on campus expecting to participate in an intense college-level program. The honing of audition skills or the creation of a design and production portfolio is the primary component of the Pre-College Drama curriculum. Classes run Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Students have a daily lunch break, and depending on course load, may have an additional free period during the day. Optional workshops and Master’s classes are held in the evenings, Monday through Thursday. Weekends are intended for homework, independent rehearsal and Student Life activities. Please remember that there's an academic component to Pre-College Drama. Students from all options are required to take Dramatic Literature. At the conclusion of the program, students from all options are required to complete a mock audition or interview for the School of Drama. Because the program is geared toward individual progress rather than product, there is no “final production.” Curriculum is divided into three areas. The Acting curriculum includes classes in acting, voice and speech, movement, audition techniques, acting Shakespeare and dramatic literature, with a choice of one course in playwriting, directing, acting for the camera, tap and improvisation available as electives. The Music Theater curriculum mirrors the Acting curriculum, with courses in singing and dance rather than voice and speech, movement and styles. Music Theater studies will focus on the rudiments of music and singing in large and small group sessions. Dance classes consist of training in ballet and jazz and are tailored for beginning, intermediate and advanced dance students. Music Theater students can also choose from playwriting, directing, acting for the camera, tap and improvisation for their one elective option. Design and Production Technology and Management students will be exposed to a curriculum of basic design, scene painting, technical production, drafting, stage lighting and dramatic literature. There are limited fee waivers available for students applying for Pre-College Drama. Fee waivers cover the cost of tuition, housing and dining. All students are responsible for the costs of materials/supplies, transportation and recreational expenses, with an average cost of $300.