Auditions and Interviews

Auditions and interviews for prospective M.F.A. students in the areas of acting and directing are held annually in January-February via the University/Resident Theatre Association (U/RTA) in New York and Chicago. Applications for directing opportunities are generally accepted through December, but those who wish to participate in U/RTA's National Unified Auditions and Interviews (NUA/I) and avoid additional fees should complete the online application by U/RTA's deadline in late October. Please see U/RTA's guidelines for additional details.

Those students not participating in the U/RTA auditions, but wishing to audition for representatives of Indiana University, should submit a letter requesting an interview/audition, along with a resume, headshot, and statement of purpose to:

Ansley Valentine, Head of MFA Directing Program
arvalent@indiana.edu

OR

Graduate Secretary
Indiana University
Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance
275 N. Eagleson Avenue
Bloomington, IN 47405-5551

Inquiries for a non-U/RTA audition or interview should be received NO LATER THAN JANUARY 15, 2024. It is the prerogative of the department to deny or grant an interview or audition request based on resumes and any other supporting materials. Please contact us with questions regarding the application process.

Specific Requirements

1. Apply to attend the University Resident Theatre Association's National Unified Auditions and Interviews OR schedule a private audition/interview.
2. Be prepared to discuss in depth a production concept, the analysis of a script, rehearsal procedures, and potential directorial problems for either The Tempest or King Lear by William Shakespeare AND one contemporary play by a known playwright. (Students interviewing through U/RTA should be prepared to discuss those plays on the U/RTA list only.)
3. Provide a resume that lists your creative work in the theatre and related areas.
4. Provide copies of reviews, photographs, prompt books, and other materials that demonstrate your technical skill and creative ability in the theatre.
5. At a second interview, be prepared to discuss in depth a production concept, the analysis of a script, rehearsal procedures, and potential directorial problems for two plays to be designated by the Department of Theatre, Drama, and Contemporary Dance.