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In the Department of Theatre and Dance, many of our courses are designed to improve our students’ performance and design skills. Whether in a dance class, a scenic design course, or a voice lesson, our students are constantly required to be physically and mentally engaged. In addition to the artistic demands of a career in theatre, it is also crucial that our students understand the business side of the industry.

In January, the Department of Theatre and Dance hosted a Broadway producer and a NYC casting director. These industry professionals gave our students an inside look at the business of theatre.

During the first weekend of the Spring 2019 semester, New York City casting director, Scott Wojcik from Wojcik and Seay Casting, traveled to »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË to work with our students. His agency is casting many popular national tours, such as Rent, Rock of Ages, and even Jesus Christ Superstar (Spoiler alert – we will be producing Jesus Christ Superstar at »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË at the end of February, and tickets are already going fast for this popular rock opera!). During Scott’s time on campus, he led a session on the expectations of the casting process and shared some do’s and don’t's for the audition room. Additionally, he worked individually with each of junior and senior students, giving priceless feedback on their audition material. According to the students, Scott’s visit to campus was a highlight of the year:

I learned how to be my authentic and genuine self instead of what I think they are wanting in an audition room. - Lauren O’Keefe ‘19

Getting individualized feedback from him was an amazing addition to my »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË education! – Catherine Cervone ‘19

Working with Scott, I learned bigger isn’t always the best choice and there is power in stillness. - Drew Koon ‘19

He taught us about the logistics of living in New York City, which is vital information for those of us pursuing a career in New York. – Mackenzie DeRosa ‘19

Later, at the end of January, »Ê¼Ò»ªÈË Alum and Tony Award winning Broadway producer, Dr. Jeff Grove, visited campus and spent the afternoon sharing his wisdom with our students. He told inspiring stories about his road to winning the Tony award for the revival of Once on this Island, as well as insight on the financial needs to produce and sustain a Broadway production. He also discussed his company’s future projects, which gave our students exclusive knowledge about upcoming Broadway seasons.

The education that our students received from these special master classes will certainly motivate them for the remainder of the semester, and will hopefully support the start of their careers.