I have tried to look at this audition season objectively now that it is over and have some thoughts and questions. I've learned a lot-- seen very talented kids from all over the country pursuing their dreams, read countless posts of Highs and lows, etc. I was shocked at how many kids were auditioning and how well prepared they were. In looking at recent playbills however, I have noticed that MANY of the top performers currently on Broadway do not have BFAs. The leads particularly are often products of a well-rounded BA education. Everyone seems to get caught up in the pursuit of a BFA these days, but at what cost? Isn't college supposed to be fun too? Certainly there are programs that offer a BFA and recognize the importance of down time, but many seem to not get that. A recent visit to a "top 10" program was so enlightening to me. The students were isolated from the rest of the student body, not encouraged to even attend a football game or have much of a life outside of theater. I welcome any thoughts on this as it concerns me as I see kids becoming heartbroken by rejections and accepting schools that don't fit them just to say they have a BFA. I am sure there are many opinions...but these are just my thoughts at this juncture.
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