UnhappyMFA

Questions I wish I had asked: What is this program truly about? What are students being trained in? What is the day-to-day schedule (traditional university or conservatory style)? Are there creative lab courses or just seminar/theory courses? What kind of collaborations between departments can be set up? What kind of directors are best suited for your program?

@elizaschuyler Yale, DePaul and Wayne State are worth looking at for sure. @seizing Iowa doesn't have a Theatre Admin or Leadership MFA. Are you thinking of Dramaturgy?

@ctbck @LittleViking131 @MadamDirector Thank you so much for your insight. I have decided to apply to a couple programs just to see what comes my way. If I don't have any doors open, then it isn't meant to be. I can make this program work if I ask/beg for what I need/want to learn and hopefully get funding for summer programs in physical theatre/devising. This truly is an amazing program and while it may not have the infrastructure or curriculum that I want, I can make my own path. Plus, no other program let's me direct a supported show every semester, nor the opportunity to direct a re-imagined opera. They accepted me for a reason and the faculty have been amazing at finding ways to fulfill my needs thus far. Plus I'll have minimal debt. Wishing you ALL luck as you head into interviews. PLEASE realize that you are interviewing the schools just as much as they are interviewing you. ASK QUESTIONS!

Hello all - I am a current first year MFA director at a reputable school. Currently, I'm worried that I chose the wrong school. It is very clear that the department's priority lie within the amazing playwriting program and the directors are here to support their needs until our 2nd year directing project and thesis. There is a lack of formal "curriculum" besides a weekly directing lab, but our education is in the ability to direct a new play every semester. I was expecting more of a "get up and create" approach rather than a read and discuss academic study. Quickly realized that I'm not a new play director (unless it's a piece I LOVE), but more a visionary auteur (not unlike Ivo Van Hove) who puts my creative stamp on pieces, re-imagines operas/musicals and self-generated director driven work. This program is more suited for a dramaturgical director who can find passion in bringing someone else's idea to life. So I'm wondering is it better to stick with this program that will allow me to direct a re-imagined opera, a big budget thesis of my choosing, 3 years of teaching experience, meet playwrights, but be creatively frustrated for 3 years? I'll also mention this program will not put me in any major debt. Or should I apply again to programs that will not be so focused on serving the playwrights visions? Are there any programs I should look at? Probably not applying to Yale for the 3rd time. Or should I just shut up, be grateful for this opportunity and make the best of it? Thoughts?