Master of Fine Arts in Acting
Criteria
| Residency | Audition
| Requirements | Application
Process
PLEASE NOTE: The MFA in Acting program is not accepting new applications or requests for auditions at this time. If you have already been seen at an audition, please continue to submit your materials so that we may complete your application file. Recruitment for the next class will begin in January of 2009.
The Master of Fine Arts in Acting with a focus on the creation of new works at The Ohio State University prepares actors in the fundamentals of acting, with experience in classical and contemporary styles within the context of developing methods for creating original contemporary work. The program emphasizes the development of actors who can work in a repertory company setting as well as function as an independent artist producing original work. The program prepares actors to work in creative ways with local communities in realizing original works.
The Master of Fine Arts in Acting is a terminal degree providing training in theatrical performance to students preparing for creative careers in theatre.
The first year of the program focuses on fundamental training for the actor. Courses include:
• Voice: Linklater
• Movement Fundamentals: Laban and Viewpoints
• Acting: Contemporary Realism
• Research Methods
• Script Analysis
• Courses in History, Literature and Criticism
• Playwriting
• Directing
• Casting in the season will reflect the work in the studio
The second year will focus on classical training for the actor, and includes:
• Voice: Complex text, dialects & IPA, and Primary Source
• Movement: Suzuki training, mime and mask
• Acting: Shakespeare
• Composition: techniques for creating work
• Courses in History, Literature and Criticism
• Video
• Devising new works
• Community outreach and engagement collaborative project creations.
The third year will focus on contemporary training for the actor, and includes:
• Acting: Non-Realism
• MFA Ensemble project
• Solo creations
• Site specific works
• Voice: the singing actor
• Professional aspects
• Avant Garde theatre
• Performance art and contemporary non-realism
• Arts Administration: grant writing, fundraising, promotion and public relations
The Ohio State University Department of Theatre plans to recruit one class of MFA Actors every three years (the next class will be accepted in 2009). The creation of original innovative works which push the boundaries of performance and theatre is a strong component of the department. This emphasis runs parallel to other innovative performance programs at Ohio State. These include the Wexner Center for the Arts as well as Ohio State’s Dance program and the School of Music’s contemporary music program. We will recruit students who demonstrate a strong foundation in acting training and who are committed to creating original work, whether it be in the form of monologist, movement theatre, traditional playwriting, media arts performance, etc.
Admission Criteria
The applicant must meet the following requirements for admission to the Graduate School of The Ohio State University: an earned baccalaureate or professional degree at an accredited college or university by the expected date of entry, a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative point-hour ratio in all previous undergraduate work. A candidate may possess either an undergraduate degree in theatre or a related field. All acting candidates must demonstrate their potential by auditioning, either through the University/Regional Theatre Association or by appointment. Appointments may be made through the Graduate Studies Coordinator for auditions before the Acting Faculty on campus in Columbus, Ohio. In both cases, an interview will be part of the audition.
Residency Requirement
A minimum residence of three academic years (excluding summers) at The Ohio State University devoted to graduate work is required.
Audition and Interview
Applicants should be prepared to present an audition according to the U/RTA guidelines for Acting Auditions: Two contrasting pieces with introduction not to exceed four minutes total time. Furthermore, applicants should be prepared to demonstrate additional skills and to receive direction. We are particularly interested in the presentation of any material created by the actor.
General Program Requirements
Each acting student must be involved in a creative project each quarter during their three years of residency. A minimum of 108 graduate credit hours of course work must be completed to receive the degree.
A student’s progress in both the classroom and production program is carefully monitored by the acting faculty through quarterly review.
In their third year, students must complete a thesis project. Written documentation of the thesis project is required, as is a final oral examination. Each acting student undergoes periodic academic reviews. The third year thesis project and oral examination provide the structure for review of third year students. Students must successfully pass these reviews in order to proceed and graduate.
Application and Admission Process
Application and Admission Process details for the Graduate program may be found by following this link.
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