Acting Emphasis

Acting Emphasis in Theatre Arts or Theatre and Screen Arts Major

Prepare two contrasting monologues - one contemporary and one classical - that total no more than 3 minutes together. The classical selection could include works from Shakespeare, Moliere, Shaw, or any of the Greek plays. All material must be memorized.

A singing audition is not required for the Acting Emphasis audition, but you may sing if you would like. Please bring an accompaniment track on your phone or a CD, and sing 16 bars of a Broadway standard.

Acting requires the use of the whole body, so your video audition should include your whole body in the frame.

If you are auditioning for the theatre and screen arts major, you are also required to submit one or both of the following materials:

• Include an essay of no more than 500 words that explains your goals for pursuing the THEA/SART major, whether or not you have previous experience with film-making, broadcasting, etc.
• Include student films, videos, or additional evidence of behind-the-camera film experience. 

These additional materials help us understand your interest in this hybrid major, which combines on-stage acting training with behind-the-camera screen arts training.

The theatre screen arts major is a hybrid major that combines the on-stage training of a theatre major with the behind-the-camera training of a screen arts major.  It is an ideal major for students who have a strong interest in making films, but, since it does not focus on screen acting, it is not suitable for students who are interested in acting in films. The theatre screen arts major is a highly selective major. If you are not admitted to the theatre screen arts major, you may still be admitted to the theatre arts major with an emphasis in acting or directing.

For more information, please contact the Fine Arts Recruitment Office at 310.506.4111, or via email at fineartsrecruit@pepperdine.edu.