Where will you be this summer? For many students, summer is a time to hone your skills, hang out with friends, and explore opportunities. If you have an interest in musical theatre you should consider applying to a summer musical theatre intensive.
Musical theatre intensives prepare you for your future, connect you with professionals, and allow you to explore new possibilities. We've broken down what it's like to be a student of one of these programs. Learn what a typical day is like, who you'd meet, and why you'd have the best summer ever!
A 5 Star Musical Theatre Intensive
Fordham University Summer Musical Theatre Intensive has consistently received a 5 star rating from alumni. Students and faculty gather at Lincoln Center campus in New York City for 5-weeks of fun with a focus on their passion.
Students work 9:45am to 5pm Monday through Thursday. A typical day includes:
- 10-11:30am - Dance for Musical Theater with Natalie Lomonte
- 11:30-1:00pm - Vocal Technique with David Sabella and David Gaines
- 1:00-2:00pm - Lunch
- 2:00 - 5:00 pm - Musical Theatre Class with David Loud, Mana Allen, and David Gaines
What earned Fordham a 5 Star Rating?
Star 1 - Housing/Accommodations
If you're considering attending a program away from home, one of the first things you may consider is where you will stay. Fordham has amazing accommodations and a relaxed policy on housing. In the heart of Manhattan, the 2- and 3-bedroom apartments are located in the same building as classes and include kitchens and air-conditioning.
First, Fordham doesn't require students to stay on campus. Therefore, if you live in the area or want to stay with a friend or family member you absolutely have the freedom to make that decision. Second, the dorms are like apartments. If you want to live on campus, you're guaranteed to have an enjoyable stay.
While there won't be room service, you might be surprised by what they have to offer. Alumni, Shannon Yawman's review stated, "Unforgettable views, spacious and comfortable apartments (a miracle for a student in Manhattan), and just about a minute walk from the rehearsal space."
If you're interested in this first star, we advise you to contact Fordham immediately as housing fills up. Deadline to apply for housing for summer 2017 is March 15.
Star 2 – Friends
"My program had a cohort of 15 students from all over the country. Such a small cohort size allowed us to get to know each other pretty well, and I'm so happy and honored to have worked with such a great group of artists. (Bonus: this program is in Tony season, so you can finally have a Tony party with true lovers of the stage)" - Shannon Yawman
Need we say more? Like birds of a feather. Find your people and throw a Tony party together!
Star 3 - Professors and Guests
Students considering a summer intensive should research the faculty they will be learning from. Do they have a professional background similar to your goals? Will their experience help you improve your skills?
"You'll hear their Broadway stories and feel all the more excited to have your own some day [...] Know that you're under the tutelage of the greats, and hear every word." - Alumni Shannon Yawman
The faculty and guest luminaries at Fordham's intensive are sensational. Students interested in pursuing musical theatre will learn from:
- Maestro David Loud - Recently Conductor of The Music of Kander and Ebbon PBS "First You Dream"
- Mana Allen - Barnard College, Cap 21
- Natalie Lomonte - Assistant Choreographer for the New York Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes
- Julie Boyd - Professor, director, and actress on Broadway, regionally, and in television, film and radio.
- David Gaines - Julliard accompanist
- David Sabella - Recently seen in a cabaret called Loopin the Loop. Sabellavoice.com to observe David's private teaching.
Past visitors have included:
- Bart Sher, Resident Director of Lincoln Center Theater
- Michael Greif - Director (Rent, Next to Normal)
- Mark Brokaw - Director (Cinderella, How I Learned to Drive)
- Victoria Clark - Tony Award Winning Actress ((Light in the Piazza)
Star 4 - Excursions
Part of the experience of participating in an intensive can be outings. Included in Fordham's Summer Intensive tuition, students attend three Broadway productions.
Alumni Shannon Yawman shared her excitement of the excursions she experienced. "We saw three great productions together, She Loves Me, Shuffle Along, and The King and I. I met multiple cast members after each production, and even got a class interview. Plus, we had a tour and full access to the Performing Arts Library next door to campus, home to an endless archive of theatrical artifacts."
Star 5 – Location, Location, Location
In the words of alumni Shannon Yawman, "You have the greatest city in the world at your finger tips for an entire month, don't waste a moment."
"5 Stars. If you can, go. If you can't, find a way. Don't put if off any longer, 'take the lane!'" -David Sabella
To learn more about Fordham University Summer Musical Theatre Intensive view them on Acceptd here.
