What do I need to qualify to be considered a returning professional?
To qualify as a returning professional, a candidate must meet or surpass a threshold of documented professional activity. Required evidence in support of admission may include, but is not limited to: Broadway, major regional, and /or international performance credits, film and television credits, awards of national recognition, professional union affiliation, publication in the field of expertise, significant record of mentoring and certifications and/or designations in areas such as acting, voice and speech or stage combat. The Acting Faculty will evaluate the submitted documentation of professional experience and determine eligibility for the M.F.A. in Acting program.
Are you currently accepting candidates?
Recruitment will begin in Fall 2023 for the next class, to start in August 2024.
What courses will I be taking?
Candidates for the M.F.A. in Acting can expect to take courses in Acting, Voice and Speech, Pedagogy, and Movement during their first year of study. Courses in Acting Styles, Movement, History and Theory, Directing, and Professional Aspects will be taken during the second year of study. Additionally, candidates will take a limited number of electives during Spring semesters and can earn credit for professional internships and/or pedagogical study during Summer terms.
Do MFA Acting candidates take classes with undergraduate students?
The required M.F.A. in Acting curriculum is graduate level only. Currently, M.F.A. Acting candidates do not take courses with undergraduates with the exception of Advanced Directing.
Are graduate assistantships available?
Yes. Candidates should indicate they wish to be considered for a graduate assistantship. The graduate assistantship package includes includes, a full tuition waiver, stipend, and health insurance co-pay.
What the duties of a graduate assistant?
Typically the assistantship is fulfilled with teaching assignments. Graduate assistants typically teach 1 to 2 undergraduate classes per semester.
What courses might I teach?
Currently, graduate assistants teach Art of Acting and/or Art of Theatre within the general education curriculum. Opportunities to teach and/or develop other courses are sometimes available.
How long has the MFA in Acting program existed?
The Acting program began in 1997.
How is the theatre scene in Northeast Ohio?
Kent, OH is located 40 minutes from downtown Cleveland and 20 minutes from Akron, both of which offer vibrant theatre and arts opportunities. The area is home to two LORT theatres, a number of smaller Equity theatres, and other theatres that provide Equity contracts. The Ohio Film Commission is also active in bringing film and television opportunities to Northeast Ohio.
What is Porthouse Theatre?
Porthouse Theatre, is Kent State University’s URTA, AEA tier II on-site professional summer theatre company with annual audiences of more than 20,000.
What opportunities are there for MFA Acting candidates at Porthouse Theatre?
M.F.A. Acting candidates are encouraged, but not required to audition for Porthouse Theatre’s annual seasons.