Virtual and hybrid options for participation to continue
After two years of fully virtual programming, the URTA Auditions & Interviews—widely known as “The URTAs”—will return with in-person events in New York City and Chicago. A hybrid event will be held at Cal State Fullerton, near Los Angeles and fully remote, live-virtual auditions and interviews will also take place on designated days.
The event, produced by the University Resident Theatre Association (URTA), allows MFA candidates in all theatrical disciplines a single place to audition and/or interview with recruiters from dozens of schools from across the U.S. and abroad.
Typically, more than 1,000 candidates pursuing graduate training in design, directing, stage management arts leadership, and acting take part each year. The event also includes classes, workshops, and panel discussions on theatre topics of interest to both candidates and recruiters.
In addition to the URTA Auditions, candidates in acting may take advantage of the Guest Auditions—a separate audition attended by non-URTA schools including MFAs programs, conservatories, overseas MAs, and producing companies looking to hire for summer seasons. In the past, 20-30 such institutions have taken part, joining URTA’s 46 member universities.
“It’s extremely meaningful for us to be back with in-person recruiting events,” said Executive Director Tony Hagopian. “While we had surprising success operating fully remote over the last two cycles, for many stakeholders there is simply no replacement for the in-person experience. We’re happy now to be able to provide a range of options to suit the needs of all taking part.”
All URTA members undergo a peer review process to assess their MFA programs, and all offer some form of financial assistance in the form of either tuition remission, scholarships, financial aid, paid assistantships, stipends, or a combination of these.
URTA Candidate Awards offer free registration to qualified candidates in all discipline areas, including all participants in Sound Design and Arts Leadership. More information at: urta.com/awards.
“The URTAs are the most accessible and cost-effective way to pursue MFA theatre training. There’s simply no other way to be seen by so many diverse programs on a single day, in a single place,” added Hagopian.
Further information from URTA, and to register: www.URTA.com/events
