This information supersedes all previous documents/information - Revised September 2018

Washington DC is the second largest theatrical community in the nation after New York City. The DC Theatrical community respects CUA as a hotbed for creative young talent, and many of our students find their first professional roles in this city.  The following guidelines are designed to help you balance off-campus professional engagements while prioritizing your college commitments.

One of the foundational philosophies of the Musical Theatre program at CUA is that there is no substitute for professional training or for professional experience.  We believe that both are necessary to prepare the student for a professional career in the performing arts. The Musical Theatre program respects and encourages student employment in professional theatrical situations, which is why we require professional theatrical internships for graduation. The faculty of the Musical Theatre program firmly believes however, that during this time of training you must place a priority on your education over professional experience.  You have chosen to be a part of a selective four-year training program designed to prepare you in every aspect for your post-graduation career. When you graduate you will have your entire life to work professionally, but during these four short years we require that you dedicate yourself to your training. 

We hope that these guidelines will help provide you the support that you need to make the best decisions possible for your career, your education, and your professional pursuits.  --  The MT Faculty

MUSICAL THEATRE GENERAL CRITERIA REGARDING OFF-CAMPUS PROFESSIONAL ENGAGEMENTS

  • Freshmen and sophomores will not be permitted to work off-campus during the school year.  Some exceptions may be made for Summer work that has rehearsals starting in late April of the sophomore year. 
    (Transfer students who are currently enrolled in Sophomore Workshop are considered “sophomore level” in this regard).
  • Students will not be permitted to miss any classes or required class/school events for an outside role beyond what is permitted by the syllabus of a particular class. Some exceptions may be made for extraordinary situations such as a role at a LORT level equity house.  If you believe that your situation warrants an exception you need to schedule a meeting with the MT program head BEFORE you begin the audition process.

BEFORE YOU START AUDITIONING

If you meet the above criteria and are eligible for outside work the next step is to download and complete Part 1 of the Off Campus Engagement Worksheet available on the Dept. of Music website and submit it to the dept. of Music records office. 

After you have submitted part 1 you may start auditioning and if offered a role proceed to fill out Part 2

The information you will need for part 2 of the worksheet includes:

  1. Are you on a School of Music, Drama, and Art scholarship?
  2. What is the name of the theatre, the show, and role offered?
  3. What are the general dates and times of rehearsal?
  4. What conflicts do you see this having with your required classes and events at CUA