Department of Theatre Interview/ Audition Requirements
The theatre degree program at USM offers a holistic exploration of the theatre arts. After gaining a strong foundation across theatrical disciplines, students build a personalized course of study according to their interests and professional goals. The interview and audition process is competitive and required so that we can gain an understanding of your interests and skills.
Important Note: At USM, the Theatre major is offered by the Department of Theatre. The Bachelor of Music Performance – Musical Theatre Concentration major is offered by the Osher School of Music. For more information on that program and to sign up for an audition, head to: https://usm.maine.edu/music
How to Interview/Audition for the USM Department of Theatre:
1) Apply to USM through the Office of Admissions (https://usm.maine.edu/admit). Please note: To be granted an interview/audition, an applicant must either be an accepted USM student or have submitted their application to the University’s Office of Admissions.
2) Submit an online Interview/Audition Request Form to the Department of Theatre, available here.
3) Prepare for your interview/audition using the criteria below, based on your area of interest.
Design & Technology
Costume, Lighting, Scenic, Sound, Stage Management, Technical Production
Performance: Acting & Dance
Present two contrasting monologues no longer than 2 minutes each or one 1-minute monologue and 32 bars of a song.
Monologues must be from published dramatic literature. No film monologues, poems, or self-written work.
We may work with you on the monologues as well as do some improvisation and/or movement exercises.
Be prepared to talk about what storytelling techniques and genres you like, and what would be your dream production to be a part of at USM.
History & Literature
Directing, Dramaturgy, History, Playwriting
Be prepared to talk about what draws you to theatre and live storytelling; A play or production you’ve seen that was meaningful and why; what techniques and genres you like, and what would be your dream production to be a part of at USM.
Need more info?
If you have any questions about the Department of Theatre Interview/Audition requirements, please email Department of Theatre Outreach Coordinator, Janice Gardner, at janice.gardner@maine.edu.