Summer Institute Theater

Overview

Through a rigorous college-level curriculum, you’ll develop skills in crafting character and scene work, grasp the potential of your voice as an instrument and develop a vibrant stage presence. You’ll also explore track-specific courses that address your individual needs and other courses that span a wide range of theatrical disciplines.

Receive training from our distinguished faculty and participate in master classes with award-winning theater artists. Our faculty are currently working on Broadway, off Broadway, in film and TV, and in major regional theaters. 

At the end of this program, students will

• leave with audition-ready materials and preparation.

• demonstrate a richer understanding and appreciation of theater-making through command of a common vocabulary.

• express a deeper level of comfort performing individually, with partners and through exercises, monologues and/or scene work.

• be able to connect the body, breath and voice for a free, clear, strong and authentic vocal expression through acting performance, presentation, public speaking and singing. 

• be able to serve as an active and constructive member of a studio atmosphere, supporting and challenging classmates through discussion, collaboration and feedback.

Programming

Core Classes

You’ll receive the following core training.

Acting Studio

Practical approaches to crafting character and scene work are combined with techniques designed to build physical and emotional stamina and encourage the spirit of play and risk that are necessary for developing a vibrant and engaging stage presence.

Collaborative Process

Focusing on the journey rather than the destination, this course expands your definitions of what theater can be and how it can be made.

Tracks

You’ll focus your training by selecting a track of study: Acting; Musical Theater; or Directing, Playwriting and  Production. Tracks allow you to deepen your study with major-specific courses, some of which are listed below. 

Musical Theater

• Musical Theater Dance

• Musical Theater Performance

• Singing Lab

Acting

• Improvisation

• Shakespeare

• Movement

Directing, Playwriting and Production

• Directing

• Playwriting

• Stage Management

Faculty

Courses in the Summer Institute Theater program are taught by theater professionals, actors and specialty artists. The majority of our faculty teach in the degree programs at UArts. Our expert faculty is comprised of seasoned educators and dedicated artists who enjoy sharing their expertise and collaborating with the next generation of actors, playwrights, directors and artists.

How to Apply

 Our Summer Institute 2023 program is full and no longer accepting applications. 

Application Requirements

• Complete the Summer Institute application.

• Submit an essay or a pre-recorded audition. Directing, Playwriting & Production students can choose to submit a portfolio in place of an audition. Students applying for a need or merit-based scholarship must include an audition or portfolio.

  • Essay

    • Include an essay of a maximum of 300 words that explains why you want to attend the program and what you hope to gain from the experience.

  • Audition

    • An introduction including your name, school, grade, city and state, and what you will be performing

    • At least two of the following: a comedic piece, a dramatic piece or 16 bars of music (no more than four minutes).

      • You must be recognizable. Avoid masks, heavy makeup or costumes.

  • Portfolio (Directing, Playwriting & Production only)

    • Your portfolio should include at least two examples and/or documentation of your theater interest. Your portfolio can include but is not limited to set designs, performance experience, creative writing etc. 

• Pay the $15 application fee.

Tuition & Fees  

Tuition: $3,400
Program fee: $150  
Housing and meals: $1,425

Commuter total: $3,550
Residential total: $4,975

Supplies

Students are expected to bring supplies with them or purchase them once they arrive on campus. Supply lists will be shared one month before the program starts, with cost estimates.

Spending & Miscellaneous Expenses

Students spend an average of $80–$100 per week on additional items including laundry, snacks, personal spending and non-required supplies.

Scholarships

Scholarships for the Summer Institute are awarded to students in high academic standing with significant creative potential and financial need. Scholarship awards are competitive. Students are able to apply for either a merit- or need-based scholarship. 

Learn about Summer Institute scholarships.