Academic Departments I Performing Arts I Apply to Program I Auditions

Who needs to audition?

Prospective first-year and transfer students who wish to pursue the B.A. in Theatre Arts are encouraged to schedule an audition/interview with the department either before or during their first semester at the college. Students who wish to pursue the B.A. in Music must audition and interview for the department prior to declaring Music as their major. Admission into the competitive B.F.A. Musical Theatre Performance degree is by audition only. An audition is also required for any student who wishes to be considered for a Performing Arts Scholarship (Musical Theatre, Music, or Theatre).

When do I audition?

Students may audition at one of the scheduled audition dates listed below or may submit a VHS or DVD audition, although scholarship preference is given to those who audition in person.

The last audition date for the Fall 2008 semester was April 5, 2008. Please contact Cassie Swanson if you need to set up an individual audition.

Video taped auditions may be mailed to:

Noel Rennerfeldt, Chair

Rockford College Performing Arts

5050 E. State St .

Rockford , IL 61108

(VHS and DVDs will not be returned.)

How do I schedule an audition/interview?

You may schedule your audition by contacting Cassie Swanson. The audition/interview process begins with a general introductory session of prospective students, their parents and faculty members at 1:30 pm in the lobby of the Clark Arts Center.

What do I prepare for the audition/interview?

BA in Theatre Arts : Students interested in pursuing the BA in Theatre Arts will interview with faculty members from the Performing Arts Department. Be prepared to discuss your background in theater, your desire to pursue theater as a major, and your career goals and aspirations. Bring a résumé of theatrical experience and a letter of recommendation. Students with a primary interest in ACTING should also prepare two contrasting monologues, no longer than 4 minutes combined. Students with a primary interest in TECHNICAL THEATRE or DESIGN should bring a portfolio or evidence of their previous work.

BA in General Music : Please prepare two contrasting selections on your primary instrument and be ready to discuss your desire to study music at Rockford College . A letter of reference is recommended when you audition.

BFA in Musical Theatre Performance : Please prepare 1 song (from a musical) and 1 monologue. Combined song and monologue should not exceed 4 minutes. Both selections should be memorized, and you should have sheet music in your key for the accompanist that will be provided. A cappella singing and taped accompaniments are not allowed. You will be taught a dance combination, so bring (or wear) clothes that you can move in. Please bring a résumé and a letter of recommendation, as well.

Who is eligible for a Performing Arts Scholarship?

The Performing Arts Department recommends awards based on talent and potential. Awards are computed as a part of the student's overall aid package. Prospective students must apply to the college and audition on or before March 1st to be considered for a Performing Arts Scholarship.

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