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East Carolina University

Test-Optional

Program

Concentration

Program snapshot

Admissions
Prescreen RequiredAudition RequiredInterview RequiredUniversity App Required
Audition format
In-Person or Virtual
Program profile
SelectiveUnder 12 StudentsStudy Abroad

Training
Rigorous conservatory-style training for stage and screen
Coursework includes actor training, voice and speech, dialects, directing, acting on camera, and professional preparation/audition technique
Program does not adhere to a singular acting technique — offers a range of tools and practices for students to develop their own individual process
Intensive movement training including physical characterization and stage combat (unarmed, rapier/dagger, and broadsword)
Annual skills proficiency testing for Actor/Combatant certification with the Society of American Fight Directors
Performance & Productions
Performances in the 1,500-seat Wright Performing Arts Center, McGinnis Auditorium proscenium, and intimate black box studio theatre
All BFA Acting students required to audition for productions; many cast in their first year
Notable Alumni
Sandra Bullock — Academy Award and Golden Globe winner (Gravity, The Blind Side); studied acting at ECU and performed in Playhouse productions alongside Kevin Williamson
Kevin Williamson — screenwriter/filmmaker (Scream franchise, Dawson's Creek, The Vampire Diaries); BFA Theatre Arts from ECU
Beth Grant — character actor with 200+ credits (No Country for Old Men, Little Miss Sunshine, Speed, Donnie Darko); BFA in Acting and Directing from ECU '73
Professional Development
Student-run productions and groups including East Carolina Theatre Association, Fifth Street Players, SWISH Improv, and Nights at the Roundtable
Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity award projects available

Updated 4d ago