The Yale School of Drama's Acting program is a highly competitive and prestigious institution for aspiring actors. The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program in Acting at Yale is designed to provide students with intensive training in the craft of acting, as well as a comprehensive education in the theater arts. To be considered for admission to the program, applicants must submit a comprehensive application package that includes a range of materials, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a headshot and resume.
Application Requirements
To apply to the Yale Acting MFA program, applicants must submit the following materials:
- A completed online application, which includes a personal statement and contact information for recommenders
- Official transcripts from all previous academic institutions attended
- Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional mentors
- A headshot and resume that highlights the applicant’s acting experience and training
- A pre-screen audition, which consists of two contrasting monologues (each no longer than 1 minute and 30 seconds) and a brief introduction
Audition Process
The pre-screen audition is a critical component of the application process, as it allows the admissions committee to assess the applicant’s acting abilities and potential for success in the program. The pre-screen audition should be uploaded to the applicant’s online application and should include the following:
- A brief introduction (no longer than 30 seconds) that includes the applicant’s name, the titles of the monologues they will be performing, and any relevant context or background information
- Two contrasting monologues (each no longer than 1 minute and 30 seconds) that showcase the applicant’s range and versatility as an actor
| Application Component | Specific Requirements |
|---|---|
| Personal Statement | Should be no longer than 2 pages, double-spaced, and should address the applicant's reasons for pursuing an MFA in Acting at Yale |
| Letters of Recommendation | Should be from academic or professional mentors who can speak to the applicant's acting abilities and potential for success in the program |
| Headshot and Resume | Should be a recent headshot and a resume that highlights the applicant's acting experience and training |
Program Structure and Curriculum
The Yale Acting MFA program is a three-year program that provides students with intensive training in the craft of acting, as well as a comprehensive education in the theater arts. The program is designed to help students develop their unique voice and perspective as actors, and to prepare them for successful careers in the entertainment industry. The curriculum includes a range of courses in acting, voice and speech, movement, and theater history, as well as opportunities for students to perform in productions and to work with renowned faculty and guest artists.
Faculty and Guest Artists
The Yale Acting MFA program is taught by a faculty of renowned actors, directors, and theater artists, who provide students with mentorship, guidance, and support throughout their time in the program. The program also features a range of guest artists and industry professionals, who work with students in the classroom and in production. Some of the notable faculty and guest artists who have worked with the program include Evamarii Johnson, Matthew Suttor, and Elizabeth Margoni.
The program's faculty and guest artists are committed to helping students develop their craft and to preparing them for successful careers in the entertainment industry. They provide students with individualized feedback and mentorship, and work with them to develop their unique voice and perspective as actors.
| Faculty Member | Area of Expertise |
|---|---|
| Evamarii Johnson | Acting and Voice and Speech |
| Matthew Suttor | Movement and Physical Theater |
| Elizabeth Margoni | Theater History and Dramatic Literature |
What is the average class size for the Yale Acting MFA program?
+The average class size for the Yale Acting MFA program is around 16 students. This allows for a highly personalized and immersive learning experience, with plenty of opportunities for individualized feedback and mentorship.
What kind of performance opportunities are available to students in the Yale Acting MFA program?
+Students in the Yale Acting MFA program have numerous opportunities to perform in productions, including plays, musicals, and devised works. They also have the chance to work with renowned faculty and guest artists, and to participate in workshops and masterclasses with industry professionals.
