The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Theatre and Dance Department has added an exciting feature to the curriculum of the theatre program. The department will initiate a "Senior Showcase" in which graduating seniors will travel to New York City to audition and perform for select casting directors and agents in theatre, television and film.

This past fall the department hired two new faculty members, Assistant Professor Tim Howard, coordinator of musical theatre, and Assistant Professor Tyler Marchant, who teaches directing and acting. Both having worked professionally in New York for many years, they were given the mandate to create a bridge to the professional world for the actors training at the university.

Beginning in May 2008, graduating seniors in the BFA acting and BFA musical theatre programs will travel to New York City to participate in a series of auditions. This "Senior Showcase" has been arranged with individual appointments where students will have the opportunity to audition and perform in the heart of the professional entertainment world.

"The Department of Theatre and Dance views this showcase as an opportunity for students to begin the transition from university training to the practical know-how of the complex professional world," said Howard. "Students will not only have a chance to audition, but they will also receive feedback and advice about the ‘business’ from agents and casting directors."

"This is a unique and powerful experience for the students," adds Marchant. "Graduating seniors are often daunted by the immense challenge of starting their careers. This opportunity is tailor-made to make this difficult process seem possible and help spread the word of the talent that the Midwest is generating."

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