Q: Do I have to audition to be accepted as a Theatre student?
A: An audition is required for admission to the BFA Theatre and BFA Musical Theatre degree programs. The School of Fine & Performing Arts typically holds three auditions in the Spring semester for enrollment beginning the following fall, and one audition in November for audition in the following Spring semester. Please contact the School of Fine & Performing Arts office for more information, 706.233.7247.
Q: Are auditions and casting for mainstage productions closed to underclassmen?
A: At Shorter University, you are not only allowed to audition for mainstage shows as a first-year student—it is required for BFA performance students! We feel strongly about immediately fostering the connection between what you are doing in the classroom to what you do onstage. Any Shorter University student (and anyone from the community) may audition for the plays we produce.
However, we typically hold auditions for the Fall musical and Fall play the first weekend after classes start. Auditions for the Spring musical and play occur in the previous November. This allows directors, actors, and designers the proper time for research and development and the potential re-scheduling of conflicts.
Q: How is the Shorter University Theatre season chosen?
A: The faculty works throughout the fall and early winter to develop a season that reflects different styles and periods of theatre, while considering a myriad of factors including: numbers of roles, opportunities for students, audience potential, budget requirements and limits, and serving the overall Shorter University student body as well as our Department of Theatre student body. All students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to submit play titles for consideration (there are specific forms to be completed). The faculty then evaluates these choices and decides on a season, subject to availability of rights and royalties.
Q: What do I wear to attend the theatre?
A: As we are on a university campus, we do not follow a specific dress code. You are welcome to wear blue jeans, shorts, etc. We recommend business casual attire.
Q: May I sit in on theatre classes when I visit the campus?
A: Yes, we advocate prospective students observing our professors in their classroom elements. However, please make arrangements for this opportunity by calling the Admissions office at 706.233.7319 to set up a visit and/or tour of campus. We also encourage you to visit when we are in production, and are glad to arrange for tickets.