Theatre Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility Requirements:

• Student must gain clear admission to Belhaven University.  This should be initiated through the Admission Department (see admission on the web or call 1-800-960-5940 for more information.)
• Student must be accepted as a theatre major and must pursue a full course load (12 hours per semester).
• Student should complete the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) form and either file it on the Internet or mail in the paper form.
• Documentation of high school GPA, ACT test scores or SAT test scores.
• Student must complete a performance audition or interview.

Audition Requirements (for performers only):

• One-page resume of theatre experience.
• Statement of career goals.
• Two contrasting audition pieces totaling 90 seconds, or 45 seconds each. 
• Audition may include mime or production musical number as one of the contrasting pieces.  If a song is included, bring an accompaniment tape.
• Cold reading will be provided at the audition.

Interview Requirements (for design and tech only):

• One-page resume of theatre experience.
• Statement of career goals.
• Portfolios, drawings, photos and/or press articles demonstrating work.

Audition and/or Interview Requirements (Theatre Ministries only):

• One-page resume of theatre experience.
• One-page statement of career goals and aspirations as relates to theatre ministries.
• Two contrasting audition pieces totaling 90 seconds, or 45 seconds each or Interview on why the candidate would be interested in theatre in a ministry context.

Audition Requirements (Musical Theatre only):

• Music Portion - Two songs from Broadway Literature Pre-1965 + one song from Broadway Literature Post-1965 (should demonstrate your vocal talents and be performed theatrically, in character).
• Dance Portion - . Musical Theatre applicants must submit a DVD demonstrating a dance style in musical theatre. On-site auditions are available twice a year (refer to website for dates and details) but not mandatory.  These scheduled auditions are specifically for students majoring or minoring in Dance.
• Theatre Portion – Musical Theatre applicants must present to the Theatre faculty two contrasting audition pieces, demonstrating the student's range, stage presence, movement ability, projection and diction.  At least one piece should be a spoken/ straight theatre piece, though one piece may double as a musical audition (but for theatrical purposes should still demonstrate characterization/ movement; i.e. not a standstill and sing piece) - audition pieces should be no longer than one minute.  Students potentially seeking acceptance to the Theatre department are encouraged to use two non-musical audition pieces.
• Auditions in person are strongly encouraged and recommended, and may be scheduled in conjunction with a campus visit during the year.  Students prohibited from visiting campus in person (because of distance or other circumstances) may be granted permission to submit a recorded audition (DVD, internet).

Scholarships:

• $1,000-$500 scholarship awards will be presented to selected freshmen who are admitted into the program.