Mapping The College Audition: An MTCA Podcast
This podcast is an exploration of the daunting College Theater (+ Musical Theater) Audition process led by an expert in the field, as well as an exploration of the paths to success from college to beyond. We talk with Colleges about their training programs and Artists about their unique careers fostered from their training.
All Episodes
Midwestern State University with Dr. Grace Edgar
In this College Deep Dive, Dr. Grace Edgar from Midwestern State University chats with MTCA Director Charlie Murphy about: Non-audition BFA program. Small individualized program. What am I looking for now and where do I want to be in five years?
Mitch Zoll (MTCA Parent) on the Methodology of Overseeing
In this Artist Exploration, we welcome Mitch Zoll, father of Anderson Zoll, who is an MTCA Alum from the class of 2023, and currently a Sophomore MT at the University of Michigan. MTCA Director Charlie Murphy and Mitch discuss: Finding your role as a theater parent, the mindset of being available and not in control.
Temple University with Peter Reynolds
In this college deep dive Peter Reynolds, the Head of Musical Theater at Temple University and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: The diversity at Temple University. Performance opportunities outside of school. The importance of Wild Card videos.
Thanksgiving Tips and Takeaways
In this Special Thanksgiving Episode, MTCA Director Charlie Murphy takes on a SOLO adventure (spurred by your listener requests!) to bring you some summations of previous episode takeaways. Some themes/takeaways include: How the College Process is like Dating.
Sarah Meahl (Broadway Dancer, Death Becomes Her) Raw Talent vs. Polish
In this Artist Exploration, Sarah Meahl a Broadway Dancer in Death Becomes Her chats with MTCA Director Charlie Murphy about: How technique can set you free. Establishing yourself as an ensemble member. Advice for when you step into your next dance call.
UCLA with Jeremy Mann
In this College Deep Dive Jeremy Mann the Director of Singing for the Ray Bolger Musical Theater Program at UCLA and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Unique audition requirements for UCLA’s BA based program. Balancing the responsibilities of double majors.
Roderick Hill (50+ National Commercials) on the Middle Class Actor
In the Artist Exploration, Roderick Hill from (50+ National Commercials) chats with MTCA Director Charlie Murphy about: Why the “biggest and best” agency may not be the best choice for you. Economics being an actor. How to transition from Shakespeare to on TV work.
NYU Steinhardt with Errik Hood
In this College Deep DIve, Errik Hood the Assistant Professor of Vocal Performance and Director, Program in Vocal Performance at NYU Steinhardt chats with MTCA Director Charlie Murphy about: Misconceptions of the “letters” of the degree.
Calvin Leon Smith (MTCA Coach and Broadway's Cabaret) on Skill vs. Innate Ability
In this Artist Exploration, Calvin Leon Smith, an MTCA Monologue Coach and Clifford Bradshaw in Broadway’s Cabaret, chats with MTCA Director Charlie Murphy about: How an advertising student becomes a Juilliard graduate with a MFA in Acting.
Brenau University with Ste Clough
In this College Deep Dive, Ste Clough the Assistant Professor and the Director of Musical Theatre at Brenau University and Charlie Murphy, MTCA Director discuss: 🔴 Redefining Brenau’s program. 🔴 The nonverbal language in an audition.
Marcus M. Martin (Broadway’s Aladdin) on Gratitude
In this Artist Exploration, Marcus M Martin, from Broadway’s Aladdin, and Charlie Murphy, MTCA Director discuss: Learning the business of the business at BW. Graduating in the pandemic. How the Genie is played differently on broadway vs. tour.
Rick Edinger on Carnegie Mellon University
In this College Deep Dive, Rick Edinger the Associate Professor of Music Theater and the Area Chair of Acting and Music Theater at Carnegie Mellon University and Charlie Murphy, the Director of MTCA discuss: How CMU has evolved under new leadership.
Elizabeth Stanley Act II (Tony Award Nominee, Jagged Little Pill) on Drive
In this Artist Exploration, we welcome back Elizabeth Stanley, Tony Award Nominee for Jagged Little Pill and Charlie Murphy, MTCA Director discusses: Being a leader a company. Secrets of self tapes. How can I play a wide range of roles? Showing your humanity.
Otterbein University with Lori Kay Harvey
In this College Deep Dive, Lori Kay Harvey the associate professor for the department of music at Otterbein University discusses with MTCA director Charlie Murphy: The importance of dance skills. Internships and building relationships with industry professionals.
Mindy Catron (MT Mom/Broadway Actress) on guiding your child through the College Audition Process
In this Artist Exploration, Mindy Catron, an MTCA Mom and /Broadway Actress, chats with Charlie Murphy, MTCA Director, about: What is your role as parent during the college audition process? Gameplaning ahead vs. living in the part of the process.
University of Alabama Birmingham with Valerie Accetta
In this College Deep Dive, Valerie Accetta the Head of Musical Theatre & Associate Professor at University of Alabama Birmingham discusses with MTCA Director Charlie Murphy: Creative ways of structuring and generating interest for showcase.
Helen J Shen (Broadway’s Maybe Happy Ending) on Auditioning the Schools
In this Artist Exploration, Helen J Shen from Broadway’s New Musical Maybe Happy Ending and MTCA Alum chats with MTCA Director Charlie Murphy about: What Helen would have done differently in their college audition process. Auditioning the school.
University of Wisconsin-Stevens-Point with Mark Hanson
In this College Deep Dive, Mark Hanson a Professor of Musical Theater and the Program Coordinator at University of Wisconsin-Stevens-Point and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: What kind of location will you thrive in? Do letters of recommendations matter?
Danny Mefford (Broadway’s Kimberly Akimbo) on the Choreographer’s Perspective
In this Artist Exploration, Danny Mefford, a Broadway Choreographer, and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: A path of an aspiring choreographer. What is a choreographer looking for in an audition. Are you taking up space in a humble way?
Muhlenberg College with Jim VanValen
In this College Deep Dive, Jim VanValen the Director of Theater at Muhlenberg College and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Multiple perspectives can expand our art. How are the credit hours spent as a Muhlenberg Student. The different levels of presence.
RE-AIR: Ali Louis Bourzgui (The Who’s Tommy) on Craving Critique and Openness
In this Artist Exploration, we welcome Ali Louis Bourzgui an MTCA Alum, Ithaca Alum and the titular role of the upcoming revival of The Who’s Tommy. MTCA Director, Charlie Murphy and Ali discuss: Expectations of family members while auditioning.
RE-AIR: John Cariani (Playwright of Almost, Maine) on Passions versus Interests
In this Artist Exploration, John Cariani the Playwright of Almost, Maine and Charlie Murphy the Director of MTCA discuss: 🔴Non-linear path as a young adult. 🔴Making your broadway debut & premiering a play the same year. 🔴Embracing your actual passions versus your interests.
RE-AIR: Kerry Butler (Breaking Broadway x Mapping The College Audition Crossover!)
In this Artist Exploration, we welcome Broadway Star and fellow BPN podcast host, Kerry Butler. Kerry and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Kerry almost getting kicked out of her college program. Passing on projects for personal pursuits.
RE-AIR: Ian Harding (Pretty Little Liars) on Vision and Purpose
In this Artist Exploration Episode, Ian Harding from Pretty Little Liars and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Vision and purpose versus control in an artistic career. Cultivating skill over selling in social media. Building a team.
RE-AIR: Alex Brightman (Broadway’s Beetlejuice) on Trial and Error of the Artistic Process
In this Artist Exploration, Alex Brightman, Tony Nominated in Broadway’s Beetlejuice and MTCA Director, Charlie Murphy discuss: Finding specialized ways of learning. Embracing Leadership with in a Show. Not typing yourself out of an opportunity.
CCM (Act 2!) with Rachel Stevens
In this College Deep Dive, Rachel Stevens CCM’s Visiting Assistant Professor of Acting in Musical Theatre and Former MTCA Coach chats with MTCA Director Charlie Murphy about: Collaboration between classes. Curriculum shifts in CCM. Common audition mistakes.
Andrew Rannells (Broadway's Book of Mormon) on the Nature of Comedy
In the Artist Exploration, Andrew Rannells from Broadway’s Book of Mormon and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Financial strain and choice of leaving school. Building a team with momentum. Nature of Comedy. Where can you get objective feedback of talent?
LIU Post with David Hugo and Valerie Clayman-Pye
In this College Deep Dive, David Hugo and Valerie Clayman-Pye the Directors of Musical Theater at LIU Post discuss with MTCA Director, Charlie Murphy: Brave spaces. Curiosity of play. Handling yourself outside the audition room. The stock you have in your program.
Corey Cott (Broadway’s Newsies) on Imperfection
In this Artist Exploration, Corey Cott from Broadway’s Newsies and Bandstand and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: College Rejections. Finding Artistry in a commercial environment. Capitalizing on the buzz of being a fresh graduate. Booking Newsies.
IAMT with Michael Minarik
In this College Deep Dive, Michael Minarik, the sole owner and director of the Institute for American Musical Theater (IAMT) and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: A school built by actors. Being a financially savvy performer. What is the value of a program.
Eric Tucker (Bedlam Theater Company) on Directing
In this Artist Exploration, Eric Tucker the Artistic Director of the Bedlam Theater Company and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: How a director should approach giving notes. Different ways to approach the rehearsal room. Financial realities of the business.
Brigham Young University with Korianne Orton-Johnson
In this College Deep Dive, Korianne Orton-Johnson the Assistant Professor and Head of Music Dance Theatre at BYU and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Why BYU uses MDT for their Music Theater students. How mormon ideals impacts artistic training.
Derek Klena (Anastasia) on the Sports of Theater
In this Artist Exploration, Derek Klena from Broadway’s Anastasia and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Originally playing baseball in college. Defining his pathway for success. Pursuing career opportunities or finishing school. The pressure of Social Media.
Shenandoah University (Act 2!) with Matt Edwards
In this College Deep Dive, Matt Edwards Associate Professor of Voice and Musical Theatre at Shenandoah University and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Vocal Pedagogy. Building repertoire based on a student’s vision board.
Brandon Gardner (UCB/Peacock's In the Know) on Improv and Sketch Comedy
In this Artist Exploration, Brandon Gardner from UCB and Peacock's In the Know discusses with MTCA Director Charlie Murphy about: Training for yourself, not training for the grade. Playing comedy truthfully. Being a writer or teacher of comedy.
Boston Conservatory (Act 2!) with Tim Espinosa
In this College Deep DIve, Tim Espinosa the Chair of Theater at Boston Conservatory and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: The next generation of Leadership at BOCO. Are the top ten school lists something to pay attention to? What class size is right for me?
Brian Belding (The White Rose/MTCA Alumni Father) on Changing Paths and Supporting Dreams
In this Artist Exploration, we welcome Brian Belding the Writer/Lyricist of White Rose: The Musical and MTCA Alumni Father. Brian and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: A High School history teacher turned Off Broadway Writer/Lyricist.
Fordham University with May Adrales
In this College Deep Dive, May Adrales Program Director of Fordham University Theater Program and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Double major capabilities. Exploring different acting techniques. How Fordham declares the focus of their major.
Grey Henson on Freedom within a Framework
In this Artist Exploration, Grey Henson from Mean Girls and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Experience you gain in pre-college programs. Freedom within a framework. How Type applies within a “machine” of a show. The work of Comedy. Join MTCA at our events!
Wagner College with Michele Pawk
In this College Deep Dive, Michele Pawk an Associate Professor of Performing Arts at Wagner College and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Having a family and being in the business. The uniqueness of a BA program. The benefits of being located in Staten Island.
Elysia Jordan (First National Tour Company Revival) on The Joy of Teaching
In this Artist Exploration, Elysia Jordan from the First National Tour Company revival and MTCA Song Coach chats with MTCA Director Charlie Murphy about: Finding your People vs Curriculum. Supportive Dialogue with your family. What is tour like on Company vs.
Missouri State University (Act 2!) with Josh Young
In this College Deep Dive, Josh Young, the Coordinator of Musical Theatre Program at Missouri State and Director of MTCA Charlie Murphy discuss: Changes Josh is making to the Musical Theatre curriculum. Alignment of goals and mission statements.
Ali Louis Bourzgui (The Who’s Tommy) on Craving Critique and Openness
In this Artist Exploration, we welcome Ali Louis Bourzgui an MTCA Alum, Ithaca Alum and the titular role of the upcoming revival of The Who’s Tommy. MTCA Director, Charlie Murphy and Ali discuss: Expectations of family members while auditioning.
New York Film Academy with Joey Zangardi-Dixon and Kristy Cates
In this College Deep Dive, Joey Zangardi-Dixon, the Director of Musical Theater Recruitment, Kristy Cates, the Chair of Musical Theater, and Charlie Murphy, the Director of MTCA discuss: Having a casting director and a voice over artist’s guidance.
A Crossover Episode with Ashley Ha from Broadway Corner
In this Artist Exploration, we have a special crossover episode with MTCA Alum, current BoCo MT, and the host of Broadway Corner Podcast, Ashley Ha! Ashley and Charlie discuss: Summer Programs and the insight they can provide towards collegiate life.
Northwestern University with Karen Olivo (K.O.)
In this College Deep Dive, K.O. Associate Professor from Northwestern University and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Clarity about the supplemental videos. What is changing with the MT certificate program at Northwestern.
(*Special Episode*): Unifieds Greenroom Interviews with MTCA Class of 2023
In this Special Episode, Charlie does some “man on the street” style interviews in the MTCA Green Rooms in NYC, Chicago, and LA! These are all interviews with Students and Parents with MTCA Alumni in the class of 2023 (all recorded last year!).
Millikin University with Rachel Barnett
In this College Deep Dive, Rachel Barnett the Director/Associate Professor of the School of Theatre and Dance at Millikin University and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Multi-fascinated students at Millikin. Having s showcase outside of NYC and LA.
Tom Kitt (Next to Normal) on the Confidence to Share Your Artistry
In this Artist Exploration, Tom Kitt the Pulitzer Prize winner for his music in Next to Normal and MTCA Diretor Charlie Murphy discuss: How to diversify your skillset as a music theater musician. Creative process of arranging mainstream songs for theater.
Longwood University with RJ Magee
In this College Deep Dive, RJ Magee the Visiting Assistant Professor of Acting at Longwood University and Charlie Murphy the Director of MTCA discuss: Why you should go to a boutique school. An casting director/manager perspective on collegiate training.
John Cariani (Playwright of Almost, Maine) on Passions versus Interests
In this Artist Exploration, John Cariani the Playwright of Almost, Maine and Charlie Murphy the Director of MTCA discuss: Non-linear path as a young adult. Making your broadway debut & premiering a play the same year. Embracing your actual passions versus your interests.
Circle in the Square with Jeanne Slater
In this College Deep Dive, Jeanne Slater the Artistic Director of Circle in the Square and Director of MTCA Charlie Murphy discuss: Flexibility with a 2 year certificate or 4 year BFA in NYC and Florida. Creating and maintaining relationships with industry professionals.
Ian Harding (Pretty Little Liars) on Vision and Purpose
In this Artist Exploration Episode, Ian Harding from Pretty Little Liars and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Vision and purpose versus control in an artistic career. Cultivating skill over selling in social media. Building a team.
The Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts with Danny Loftus George
In the College Deep Dive Episode, Danny George President of The Norwalk Conservatory and Charlie Murphy MTCA Director discuss: What is missing from a four year program university. Immediate collaboration with working professionals in the business.
Alli Mauzey (Kimberly Akimbo) on the Quirkiness of Character Development
In this Artist Exploration, Alli Mauzey from Kimberly Akimbo on Broadway and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Unconventional journeys and early rejections. How Alli’s athletic background informs her art. Unpacking Quirkiness.
Howard University with Michael McElroy
In this College Deep Dive, we welcome back Michael McElroy to talk about Howard University. Michael and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: What Michael is bringing to Howard. What a HBCU offers a prospective student. What it means to be an artist in a safe environment.
Kerry Butler (Breaking Broadway x Mapping The College Audition Crossover!)
In this Artist Exploration, we welcome Broadway Star and fellow BPN podcast host, Kerry Butler. Kerry and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Kerry almost getting kicked out of her college program. Passing on projects for personal pursuits.
American University with Carl Menninger
In this College Deep Dive, Carl Menninger from American University and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: The differences in a BA Program. The possibilities for blending Arts and Social Justice. The difference between enjoying acting and doing it for a career.
Matt Scott (An American In Paris) on the Value of a Degree
In this Artist Exploration, Matthew Scott, Tony Nominated in Grand Horizons and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Deciding what a tuition is worth. Benefits for actors reading reviews. Swinging Jersey Boys. When to go to school and when to jump into the business.
SUNY Purchase with Liam Joynt
In this College Deep Dive, Liam Joynt from SUNY Purchase and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Habits as a human that serves your acting. Different ways to utilize your voice to convey a point of view. Professional actor training at a affordable price.
Jenna Pastuszek (MTCA Vocal Tech Coach) the Truth About Voice Teachers
In this Artist Exploration, MTCA Vocal Tech Coach, Jenna Pastuszek, and MTCA Director, Charlie Murphy, discuss: What is vocal tech session? Different Voice Lessons Universities Offer. What is your voice teacher listening for as you do vocal exercises.
Ohio University with Steven Strafford
In this College Deep Dive, Steven Strafford from Ohio University and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: 🔴Celebrating your individual weird. 🔴Importance of Ensemble Acting. 🔴Exposing students to different locations for theater markets.
Kate Hamill (Playwright) on the Process of Making Work
In this Artist Exploration, Kate Hamill, Wall Street Journal’s Playwright of the Year and MTCA Director, Charlie Murphy discuss: 🔴Opposition of classical acting and feminism. 🔴Placing a bet that results in writing your first piece of work.
UNC Greensboro with Dominick Amendum
In this College Deep Dive, Dominick Amendum from UNC Greensboro and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Cultivating relationships from early auditions. Expressing interest to a program with a smaller class size. Advantages of a newer program.
Danny Feldman (Pasadena Playhouse) on Future of American Theater
In this Artist Exploration, Danny Feldman from Pasadena Playhouse and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Behind the scenes of theater companies. How theaters handle selecting a season. The regional theater movement. “Yes, anding” you into opportunities.
Chico State with Matthew Teague Miller
In this College Deep Dive, Matthew Teague Miller from Chico State and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Social justice mindset of Chico State. Accessible audition process. Consent based casting. Transferring process. Be sure to check out Chico State at: @chico.state.theatre.
Alex Brightman (Broadway’s Beetlejuice) on Trial and Error of the Artistic Process
In this Artist Exploration, Alex Brightman, Tony Nominated in Broadway’s Beetlejuice and MTCA Director, Charlie Murphy discuss: Finding specialized ways of learning. Embracing Leadership with in a Show. Not typing yourself out of an opportunity.
Florida State University with Alisa Hauser
In this College Deep Dive, Alisa Hauser from Florida State University and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: Granularity between the BM and BFA Musical Theater tracks. Expressing interest to schools. Vocal Technique Journey. Prescreen Submission Suggestions.
John Behlmann (Broadway’s SHUCKED) on BA to MFA route
In this Artist Exploration, John Behlmann from Broadway’s SHUCKED and MTCA Director Charlie Murphy discuss: BA to MFA route. How a classical trained actor prepares for a Broadway musical. Meeting the industry expectations of you verses how you play on stage.
University of Evansville with Sharla Cowden
In this College Deep Dive, Sharla Cowden from University of Evansville and Unifieds Co-Coordinator chats with MTCA Director Charlie Murphy about: The BS of Acting. Choosing a degree focus in your 2nd semester. Study Abroad program. Stackable scholarships.
Lauren Patten (Tony Award Winner, Jagged Little Pill)
We are BACK for Season Three of Mapping the College Audition! In this Artist Exploration, Tony Award Winner, Lauren Patten and MTCA Director, Charlie Murphy discuss: The balance of instincts and training. Transfering schools. Insecurities in your talent.
Jessie Mueller (Tony Award Winner, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical) on Growing Organically
In this Artist Exploration, Jessie and Charlie discuss: Growing up in the Chicago Theater scene with the family in the business. Stepping into the role of Carole King. Setting future goals and the building blocks of each role. Unpacking the “it’ factor.
Slippery Rock University with Aaron Galligan-Stierle
In this College Deep Dive, Charlie and Aaron discuss: Entrepreneurial spirit of Slippery Rock student. The importance of Wellness for the actor. Flexibility to minor with a BFA. Cost effective program.
Celia Keenan-Bolger (Tony Award Winner To Kill a Mockingbird) on Vulnerability
In this College Deep Dive, Charlie and Celia discuss: Finding what kind of environments you thrive in. What it is like playing younger. Merging creative self to the personal self. How the practice of vulnerability is the practice of presence.
Ohio Northern University with David Coolidge
In this College Deep Dive, Charlie and David discuss: Cultivating a nurturing artistic environment. Exploration of different styles of acting. Taking up space in audition rooms. The care of building and shaping a class.
Dan Weschler (PigPen Theatre Co.) on Collaboration Across Disciplines
In this College Deep Dive, Charlie and Dan discuss: Seeking ways to be present. How PigPen was formed. Ways to navigate the creative process and accolades in a larger group. Imposter syndrome in the writing process.
Rutgers University with Cameron Knight
In this College Deep Dive, Cameron and Charlie discuss: Training opportunities such as Miesner and studying at the Globe Theater in London. Approaching training mindfully and having transparent artist led conversations. When to utilize certain material.
Sean Allan Krill (Broadway’s Parade) on Generosity
In this Artist Exploration, Sean and Charlie discuss: Staring out in the Chicago Theater scene. Experiencing your spouse's Broadway Debut as a castmate. What it means to be generosity on stage.
Manhattan School of Music with Liza Gennaro
In this College Deep Dive, Charlie and Liza discuss: Exploring other musical interests as a music theater major. MSM Disney Collaboration Opportunities! The different ways that MSM students network. What MSM is looking for in an audition.
Shereen Pimentel (Broadway’s Revival of West Side Story) on Continuing with What Is
In this Artist Exploration, Charlie and Shereen discuss: Life as a child actor while staying in public school. Navigating having an equity card at a young age. The benefits of having a music degree with quick turnaround auditions. Honing free lance artist skills.
University of Miami with David Williams
In this College Deep Dive, Charlie and David discuss: What is style and why it’s important. Taking caution with Chat Boards. The willingness to be “wrong” when given an adjustment. Audition Advice for Parents!
Leo Ash Evens (MTCA Director) on Passion, Purpose and Persistence
Happy 100th Episode! In this celebratory Artist Exploration, Leo and Charlie discuss: How Leo fell in love with the grind of auditioning. Ways to approach the same role in different productions. What motivates Leo’s artistic and business careers.
The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) with John Prosky
In this College Deep Dive, John and Charlie discuss: Musical theater training with an emphasis on TV/Film acting. Working within a budding TV/Film hub and a casting office that is on campus. The possibility of double Majoring and Double Minoring.
Chris McCarrell (Broadway’s Lightning Thief) on Embracing the Unpolished
In this Artist Exploration, Charlie and Chris discuss: Strategically working towards artistic goals while in school. Finessing “flying by the seat of your pants” The differences when approaching roles like Marius and Percy Jackson.
Cornish College of the Arts with Timothy McCuen Piggee
In this College Deep Dive, Timothy and Charlie discuss: The different degree paths of Cornish College. The reason for varying class sizes. How are the additional and supplemental videos are used in their admission process.
Talia Suskauer (Broadway’s Wicked) on Putting Yourself in Practice
In this Artist Exploration, Talia and Charlie discuss: How she and her family navigated the college audition process. Championing a sibling that attends the same program as you. Why she chose Penn State. Auditioning for Young Arts.
Five Towns College with David Krasner
In this College Deep Dive, David Krasner from Five Towns College and MTCA Director, Charlie Murphy discuss: The unique classes at Five Towns such as- “Cabaret Ensemble” Competitive training for the third of the price. Students taking professional work while in school.
Merri Sugarman (Tara Rubin Casting) on Building Rapport with Casting
In this Artist Exploration, Merri Sugarman from Tara Rubin Casting and MTCA Director, Charlie Murphy discuss: How does a Casting Director has with Producer. How do build a relationship with a Casting Director. What makes a Casting Director bring an actor into the room.
Marymount Manhattan College with Michael Mendez
In this College Deep Dive, Charlie and Michael discuss: How Marymount Manhattan cultivates curious community artists. The unique classes such as the Seminar Class, Dance Share and Ensemble Class. The urge to over analyze what happened in the room after an audition.
Jimmy Nicholas (NBC’s Chicago Fire) on Relentless Pursuit
In this Artist Exploration, Jimmy Nicholas from NBC’s Chicago Fire and MTCA Director, Charlie Murphy discuss: Advocating for yourself in an educational setting. Capitalizing on auditions in your early career. The importance of never burning bridges.
University of Michigan (Act 2!) with Michael McElroy
In this College Deep Dive, Michael McElroy from University of Michigan and MTCA Director, Charlie Murphy discuss: Support systems that shaped and aided his early career. New direction and initiatives of University of Michigan.
Brandon Victor Dixon (Broadway’s Color Purple) on Arts, Advocacy, and Commerce
In this Artist Exploration, Brandon and Charlie discuss: Why he chose a liberal arts education over conservatory training. Differences between live performances and live TV musicals. Juggling Producing and Performing responsibilities.
Carnegie Mellon University (Act 2!) with Don Wadsworth (+ Voice/Speech Deep Dive)
In this College Deep Dive, Don and Charlie discuss: How he developed his skills as a dialect coach. What is a Voice and Speech class? Differences between a dialect and a voice coach. Don’s suggestions for a Carnegie Mellon audition. Voice Overs.
Jordan Parente (Agent w/ Stewart Talent) gives an Agent’s Advice
In this Artist Exploration, Jordan and Charlie discuss: How do you even become an agent? What attracts Jordan to a client. What are some ways you get an agent? What should a potential client prepare for a meeting. Ways to cultivate a successful agent-actor relationship.
University of Utah with David Schmidt
In this College Deep Dive, David and Charlie discuss: Dedication to the work and talent. The benefits of a Research 1 University. The Black Friday Event of Showcase. David emphasizes the importance of telling a story in your audition.
2022 A Year in Review
Another calendar year in the books! Settle down with your Eggnog or Lacroix to celebrate 2022 with Meghan and Charlie. We answer listener questions in our mailbag segment and of course play some silly games.
Marcia Debonis (Casting Director/Actor) on Casting from the Actor’s Perspective
In this Artist Exploration, Marcia and Charlie discuss: How she became an actor who is also a casting director. Marcia explains the real role of a casting director. Type and how networks should cast real people! The Differences of mediums TV vs T heater.
Elon University with Alexandra Warren
In this College Deep Dive, Alexandra and Charlie discuss: Getting conservatory style training in a liberal arts degree. Study abroad option in London. What the dance program offers. Student organization that Elon students can participate in.
Ray Mercer (Broadway’s Lion King) on Being a Veteran Cast Member
In this Artist Exploration, Ray and Charlie discuss: How he had his first dance class at 17 years old. The Lion King audition experience. Maintaining a dual career as Performer and Choreographer. The experience of being with a show for 20 years.
Institute of the Arts Barcelona with Nick Hollamby
In this College Deep Dive, Nick and Charlie discuss: The tight community that is made at an international school. Differences of Singing Extension vs. Dance Extension. How IAB cultivates connections with the US industry and other markets around the world.
James Jackson Jr. (Broadway’s A Strange Loop) on Finding Your Collaborators
In this Artist Exploration, Charlie and James discuss: Balancing survival jobs to increase auditions. Finding solace in a Cabaret setting. The Impact of Type. A Strange Loop. James suggests to listeners to find your collaborators.
Indiana University with Richard Roland + DJ Gray
In this College Deep Dive, Richard, DJ and Charlie discuss their intimate BFA program within a large university, the importance of getting jobs at their school, how to be fiscally responsible as an artist and practicality of careers.
Geoffrey Soffer (Manager) on Navigating Representation
In this Artist Exploration, Geoff and Charlie discuss: Being a Young Child Actor and Navigating College Life. The Identity crisis of being an actor and enjoying being a casting director. What are the roles of your team. What attracts Geoff to a client.
Carthage College with Matthew Hougland
In this College Deep Dive, Matthew and Charlie discuss: Well rounded education right on Lake Michigan! The transition from BA to BM which includes some interesting classes like a year of pop rock and music theory so you can plunk out new workshop music.
Susan Blackwell (Broadway’s Title of Show) and Laura Camien (The Blue Man Group) on Sparking your Creativity
On this Artist Exploration, Susan, Laura and Charlie discuss: The journey of Title of Show from NYMF to Broadway. Accountability buddies. Creating more than what you are consuming. Changing your choice & transferable skills of a BFA.
University of Northern Colorado with Shelly Gaza
In this College Deep Dive, Shelly and Charlie discuss: The ability to get a minor or get a certificate outside of Theater School. Their alumni hubs in Chicago, LA, Denver and NYC. Affordable tuition! What is YOUR job versus the Faculty’s Job.
Beth Malone (Broadway’s Fun Home) on Not Quitting
In this Artist Exploration, Beth and Charlie discuss: Closing down her school & Going on tour with a rock band. Journey back to finish Undergrad and Grad School. Commercial World. Her experience with Fun Home. How type has affected Beth.
Molloy University/CAP21 with Rebecca Overton
In this Artist Exploration, Rebecca and Charlie discuss: The history of CAP21. How the accreditations of degrees work. A typical schedule of a first year student. Commuting between campuses. Questions Molloy/CAP21 may ask in the audition room.
Will Reynolds (Off Broadway’s Daddy Long Legs) & Hannah Corneau (Broadway’s Wicked) on Creative Collaboration
In this Artist Exploration, Will, Hannah and Charlie discuss: Breaking out of a fixed mindset about programs and career. Will’s songwriting process in blending his performing and songwriting skills. Best practices with Collaboration and Feedback between Composer and Singer.
CSU Fullerton with Josh Grisetti
In this College Deep Dive, Josh and Charlie discuss: The changes at CSU Fullerton to customize their program. Why they shifted the audition and lost the “cut” Creativity with their showcase process. Josh shares some bold (and aggregatable!) opinions about the Cost of Training.
Krysta Rodriguez (Broadway’s The Addams Family) on Expanding your Dreams
In this Artist Exploration, Charlie and Krysta discuss. The power of “No” in your career. Pilot season auditions in LA. Smash audition experience. Her resilience in fighting breast cancer. Playing Liza Minnelli in Halston. Expanding your dreams into other artistic pursuits.
Pace University with Jesse Carlo
In this episode, Jesse and Charlie talk about: -The New Direction of PACE. -PACE’s New Early Decision audition (premiering this Fall) -Jesse’s Reaction to the “See Our Truths” Videos. -New and Renewed EDI practices at PACE. -Some great advice for Parents.
JJ Niemann (Broadway’s Book of Mormon/MTCA Alum) on putting the “me” in Social Media
In this Artist Exploration, JJ and Charlie discuss: His move from Elon to Book of Mormon. How JJ’s assistant skills aided him in being a Swing. TikTok stardom. Building a career around his personality. If you want to hear more from JJ be sure to check out: TikTok: @jjniemann.
University of Oklahoma with Ashton Byrum
In this episode, Charlie and Ashton talk about: Being an Intimate program in a Large University. Sports and Greek Life Possibilities. In-state/Out-of-State Tuition Costs. The Danger of Being “Shallacked” in your Preparation. OU’s “Industry Week” vs.
Belmont University with Nancy Allen
In this episode, Charlie and Nancy talk about: The underlying Christian mission of Belmont. In a Christian University that is far from exclusively Christian. Classical foundations of training at Belmont. The Strong Emphasis on the Music of Musical Theater.
Samantha Williams (Broadway’s Caroline or Change) on Navigating Booking while in School
In this episode, Samantha and Charlie discuss: Learning Grace and Authenticity at Pace. Navigating booking work while in School. The search for Community as a young professional. Samantha’s reaction to “See our Truths” Navigating institutions as a young BIPOC woman.
NYU Tisch with Molly Horan
In this College Deep Dive episode, Molly and Charlie discuss: NYU Students as Multi-Hyphenate Artists with Rigorous Academics. How the NYU Studio Placement System works. And how to approach that darn “All Studios” box for MT Hopefuls.
Cameron Adams (13 Broadway shows) on Thriving in the Ensemble
In this Artist Exploration, Cameron and Charlie discuss the qualities that make a great Ensemble Member, the differences between swings/covers/standbys/understudies, the Commitment it takes to be the Lebron James of Broadway, and we play a game of “Understudies Nightmare” where we test Cameron’s memory of her cues from the past 20 years of performances.
University of the Arts with Kikau Alvaro
In this College Deep Dive episode, Kikau and Charlie discuss UArts’ Curricular focus on New Work, the realities of going to school in the middle of Philadelphia, and the importance of having a Human Experience in your auditions.
Bryce Pinkham (Tony Nom for Gentleman’s Guide) on Courting Failure
In this Artist Exploration, Bryce and Charlie discuss the intricacies of Clowning, continue our discussion on the “Traps of Type”, talk about Bryce’s unique pandemic experience, and take a long hot bath in discomfort, as we learn to get comfortable with the uncomfortable.
Montclair State University with Mark Hardy
In this College Deep Dive, Mark and Charlie discuss Montclair’s Triple-Training structure, the Importance of being Present in your Auditions and how students are the best emissaries for their Schools.
Joey Contreras (MT/Pop Composer) on the Process of Songwriting
In this Artist Exploration, Joey and Charlie discuss finding community, the advantages of a songwriter having acting training, Joey’s Songwriting process, and what goes into creating a musical. If you would like to hear more from Joey, check him out in the following places!
James Madison University with Kate Arecchi
In this College Deep Dive, Kate and Charlie discuss the flexibility that a Bachelor of Arts allows, double majoring, their non-prescreen video auditions and loving your material. Want to hear more about JMU or Kate visit the following places: @Jmumusicaltheatre on Instagram.
Gavin Creel (Tony Award Winner, Hello, Dolly!) on the Traps of Type
In this Artist Exploration, Gavin and Charlie discuss weighing admission decisions, type, Gavin’s song writing process and his relationship with social media. Charlie and Gavin also play a rousing game of Creel or No-Creel.
Hartt with Ricky Oliver
In this College Deep Dive, Ricky and Charlie discuss how the acting program and music theater program learn in tandem, professional partnership such as Hartford Stage, Goodspeed, and study abroad programs. To learn more about Hartt visit the following places: @harttmtat22 on Instagram.
Joel Waggoner (Broadway’s School of Rock) on Advocating for Yourself
In this Artist Exploration, Joel and Charlie discuss revisiting a show after the pandemic, navigating imposter syndrome, and learning to advocate for yourself. We revisit Joel’s victory on $100,000 Pyramid by recreating his Winner’s Circle Round.
Webster University with Lara Teeter
In this College Deep Dive, Lara and Charlie discuss the actor first mentality of Webster, getting to know the students in the audition room versus the essence of a student and red flags to stay away from while auditioning.
Annaleigh Ashford (Tony Award Winner, You Can't Take It with You) on Leaning into the Juggle
In this Artist Exploration, Annaleigh and Charlie discuss the importance of juggling your life and schedule, experiencing rejection, being creative in spirit and her thoughts on comedy vs. magic. Annaleigh and Charlie also play a Trivia-style game called 6 Degrees of Annaleigh Ashford.
Nazareth College with Christine O’Grady Roberts
In this College Dive Dive, Christine and Charlie discuss the Page to Stage program, swing and understudying training, the flexibility Nazareth has in their course requirement and the benefit of tailoring artistic class selections from student to student.
Ashley Reyes (Hulu’s How I Met Your Father/MTCA Alum) on Being Seen
In this Artist Exploration, we welcome our first MTCA Alum on the pod! Ashley and Charlie discuss the double-edge sword of her impulsivity, going to school abroad, what it is to “be seen” on stage and tv/film and creating, changing, and expanding your creative team.
Point Park University with Zeva Barzell
In this College Deep Dive, Zeva and Charlie discuss the supportive ambition of Point Park students, the triple threat model of training, Point Park’s vertical campus and the environment Pittsburgh provides.
Dakin Matthews (Gilmore Girls) on Shakespeare and Performance
In this Artist Exploration, Dakin and Charlie discuss Dakin’s journey from the Roman Catholic Seminary to Broadway, his TV and Film career, Dramaturgy and his Shakespeare philosophy. Dakin reminds us to not treat Shakespeare as literature, it is meant to be performed and viewed!
Emerson College with Eric Weiss
In this College Deep Dive, Eric and Charlie discuss the entrepreneurial spirit of Emerson students, the specific curricular differences of Emerson’s degrees, finding your role in the arts and if High School resumes really matter!
Jonathan Bernstein (TPAP) on Creativity & Risk Taking
In this Artist Exploration, Jonathan and Charlie discuss exercising your creativity muscle, bravery, YouTube’s trap of emulation, and The Performing Arts Project (TPAP). Jonathan encourages students to divorce themselves from "shoulds".
Missouri State University with Robert Westenberg
In this College Deep Dive, Robert and Charlie discuss being inspired by your community rather than threatened, the quintessential university experience and affordable tuition Missouri State University offers.
Ann Harada (Broadway's Avenue Q) on Building a Sustainable Career
In this Artist Exploration, Ann and Charlie discuss the value of community you gain from school, the way she networked her way through NYC, having to turn down jobs in hopes of Avenue Q being a success and her TV-Film-Musical Life.
CCM with Eric Santagata
In this College Deep Dive, Eric and Charlie discuss parallel passions, how CCM has moved from a Triple-Threat model to a multi-hyphenate model, and how CCM is a one stop shop for Theater, Music, Art passions while being held within a major university.
Ilda Mason (Spielberg’s West Side Story) on Breaking Into the Business as an International Artist
In this Artist Exploration, Ilda and Charlie discuss her abstract idea of what a Music Theater would be like in the USA, Ilda’s process of getting a Visa, the audition process for Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story, and the Art of being a Swing.
Rider University with Robin Lewis
In this College Deep Dive, Robin and Charlie discuss Rider's mentality of “Free to Roam”, how Rider teaches their students to swing a show, and how they learn choreography from current broadway shows. Robin explains that Rider Music Theatre students are often double majors and double minors.
2021 A Year in Review
In this Holiday Episode, Charlie and Meghan take a look back on their first calendar year of podcasting. Charlie is challenged to a Trivia Game about his very own podcast and Meghan is challenged to the College Flashback Round. Who will come out on top?
Sam Leicht (Broadway’s The Lightning Thief) on Sustainable Fitness
In the Artist Exploration, Sam and Charlie discuss Sam’s path for readiness in the business, being motivated to learn versus the obligation to learn and Sam’s online fitness program, Pridefit. Charlie and Sam also play a trivia game on Famous Artist/Fitness/Wellness people.
The University of Arizona with Danny Gurwin
In this College Deep Dive, Danny and Charlie discuss acting styles you will study while at University of Arizona, the integration and distinctions of their Acting/MT program, and The University of Arizona’s digital showcases and reels.
Josh Segarra (CW’s Arrow) on the Healthy Competitor
In this Artist Exploration, Josh and Charlie discuss competition within the arts, having an awareness of the industry while in school, envisioning the trajectory of your career and developing a support system.
Ball State University with Bill Jenkins
In this College Deep Dive, Bill and Charlie discuss Ball State’s multiple showcases, cultivating adaptable artists, having a proactive mindset and the balance of having grace and rigor. Bill reminds us that the student is interviewing the school just as much as the school is interviewing the student.
Shakina Nayfack (NBC’s Connecting) on Blazing Your Own Trail
In this Artist Exploration, Shakina and Charlie discuss forging a path around your interests and passions, creating your own work, developing your own ethics and how theater is to agitate. Shakina also encourages us to come from a place of compassion and forgiveness when asking for change.
Boston Conservatory with Michelle Chasse
In this College Deep Dive, Michelle and Charlie discuss how BoCo students are sponges, strong actors and storytellers. Michelle encourages students to get out of the mirror and throw their energy to the dance audition panel.
Alejandro Rodriguez (Alejo Communication) on Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging
In this Artist Exploration, Charlie and Alejandro discuss loving theater but not loving auditioning, safety and identity as it relates to these difficult conversations, art at the center of movement work, trusting your body, the difficulty of monetizing arts and how social media platforms alter messages.
Ithaca College with Courtney Young
In this College Deep Dive, Courtney and Charlie discuss new standards for working theater moms, how triple threats should be named “triple celebrations”, and how Ithaca trains their performers to be actors first. Charlie and Courntey also get into the Ithaca prescreen process.
Sarah Saltzberg (Broadway’s The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee) on Enjoying the Journey
In this Artist Exploration, Sarah and Charlie discuss competing in a cut program, finding your artistic place in the business and using improv as a writing tool.
Roosevelt University-CCPA with Stephen Schellhardt
In this College Deep Dive, Stephen and Charlie discuss how CCPA is all about the training and becoming artist-citizens, what type of performer pursues the BFA MT vs. BFA MT Dance track, and the myth that an audition is all about singing.
Carey Anderson (Broadway Performer & Psychotherapist) on Mental Health
On this Artist Exploration, Carey and Charlie discuss relationships with rejection, the comparison game, the trance of unworthiness, evidence-based research on mental health and how it can help performers. Carey also highlighted one of MTCA mottos, “you don't have to be more than you are”.
Syracuse University with Thom Miller
In this College Deep Dive, Thom and Charlie discuss getting conservatory style training in a liberal arts college, unlocking your inner clown and Syracuse University’s partnership with Syracuse Stage.
Meghan Picerno (Broadway's Phantom of the Opera) on the Scrappy Path from Opera to MT
In this Artist Exploration, Meghan and Charlie discuss the transition from Opera to Musical Theatre, being scrappy, taking advantage of opportunities, relating to people who aren't artists, the decision to get a Masters degree and how artists are entrepreneurs.
Boston University with McCaela Donovan
In this College Deep Dive, McCaela and Charlie discuss adding tools to your tool box, the difference between a callback and a first audition, and how students can choose between BFA Theater Performance and BFA Acting in their first year.
Allison Blackwell (Broadway’s Pretty Woman) on the Journey from a BA to a MM
In this Artist Exploration, Allison and Charlie discuss the decision to make performing a career or a hobby, joining a conservatory after a BA environment, being told you have work to do, how regional theater can help you grow as an artist and how important is it to study TV/Film acting in this virtual world.
Texas State (Acting) with Neil Patrick Stewart
In this College Deep Dive, Neil and Charlie discuss what makes Texas State unique, what Neil looks for in an audition, equity and the future of virtual auditions. To learn more about Texas State BFA Acting program visit the following places: Texas State Website.
Ethan Slater (Broadway’s SpongeBob SquarePants) on Learning For Yourself
In this Artist Exploration, Ethan and Charlie discuss having several interests, learning from actors who have more experience, the structure of art, and his new concept album, Edge of the World. Ethan reminds us all to do your reading!
UNCSA with Quin Gordon
In this College Deep Dive, Quin and Charlie discuss being immersed in an artist's environment, integrating film training throughout four years, wanting to see multiple sides of you in the audition room, the cheap tuition UNCSA can offer, and how UNCSA uses a school of methods.
Ryan Quinn (Whorl Inside a Loop) on MFAs and Following your Bliss
In this Artist Exploration, Charlie discusses some paths that are not BFA-MT arrows pointed straight at the Broadway Bulls eye. As we know (and will continue to explore), there are a lot of different ways to reach that goal of success, and a lot of versions of what success looks like for different artists.
USC with Kenneth Noel Mitchell
In this College Deep Dive, Kenneth discusses being an artist with a disability and how he was not seen in the business. Charlie and Kenneth discuss how USC strives to change the face of musical theater, celebrate unique identities, and train the artist for today, tomorrow and the future.
Ellen Lettrich (MTCA & TFCA) The College Landscape
In this Artist Exploration, Ellen and Charlie discuss MTCA’s beginning and the Heart of MTCA, TFCA, and how one can try to positively affect the landscape. Ellen suggests to block out the noise of the internet, peers and that there’s not only one path to pursue.
Penn State University with John Simpkins
In this College Deep Dive, John and Charlie discuss being in the right swimming pool but the wrong lane, curious artists and their point of view on the world, utopian collegiate experience Penn State can offer, young artists as young athletes, and building the bridge from academia to the professional world.
Erika Henningsen (Broadway’s Mean Girls) on being a Scholastic Sponge
In this Artist Exploration, Erika and Charlie discuss strategizing your college audition, interacting with non-theater majors at school, being a sponge & being squeezed, the transition to NYC and pulling inspiration from idols.
Carnegie Mellon University with Catherine Moore
On this College Deep Dive, we have a jam packed Carnegie Mellon episode. First, we welcome MTCA Director, Leo Ash Evens, on the pod to discuss MTCA’s Virtual College Fair and Summer Faculty Masterclass.
Anne L. Nathan (Broadway Veteran) on the Discipline it Takes to Grind
In this Artist Exploration, Anne and Charlie discuss the confidence gleaned from training, the discipline and structure of the grind, compartmentalizing and building community. Be sure to check out Anne on the cast recording of Sing Street.
University of Michigan with Mark Madama
In this College Deep Dive, Mark and Charlie discuss the academics at Michigan, their legacy in the business, the classic college experience, just being yourself, the value of a full life outside of the theater and how social media is not a playground.
Gabriel Ebert (Tony Award Winner, Matilda) on Feeling Seen in an Audition Room
In this Artist Exploration, Gabe and Charlie discuss, feeling seen in an audition room, why you might not always need to do pieces that nobody has ever heard, Mamba mentality for artists, translating TV to stage, embracing your inner Kindergartener and winning audition rooms in the virtual world.
Shenandoah University with Kevin Covert
In this College Deep Deep, Kevin and Charlie discuss growing where you are planted, school sizes, loving your audition material & adjusting curriculum with the changing industry. If you would like to learn more about Shenandoah University, visit the following places: @Shencomusicaltheatre.
Elizabeth Stanley (Broadway's Jagged Little Pill) on Building Your Own MT Degree
In this Artist Exploration, Elizabeth and Charlie discuss building your own MT degree, making the switch from Classical Voice to MT, the value of Regional Theatre, and how training is not done at 22 year old. You can follow Elizabeth on Instagram @el.stans.
Texas State University (MT) with Kaitlin Hopkins
In this College Deep Dive, Kaitlin and Charlie discuss being a healthy repeatable sustainable artist, getting a debt free BFA, the social justice mindset of Texas State students and debunking the myths of type.
Devere Rogers (Broadway's Chicken & Biscuits) on Being a Multi-hyphenate Actor-Writer
In this Artist Exploration, Devere (Broadway's Chicken & Biscuits) and Charlie discuss Devere’s road to NYU, discovering who you are as an artist, changing dreams, a career as a multi-hyphenate artist and being ready for the moment.
Baldwin Wallace University with Victoria Bussert
In our first College Deep Dive Episode, Victoria Bussert (Baldwin Wallace University) and Charlie discuss what makes a BWMT student, Vicky’s view on prescreens, what makes a good audition, the artistic environment that Baldwin Wallace creates and the practice of resilience that the college audition process can teach you.
Telly Leung (Broadway’s Aladdin and Glee) on Boldness in the Age of Technology
In This Episode: In our first Artist Exploration Episode, Telly Leung (Aladdin, Allegiance, Godspell, Rent, & Glee) and Charlie Murphy discuss Telly’s road to Carnegie Mellon, how the college application process has changed, the fear that many parents have for their young aspiring artists, being bold in the technology age, and how the theater industry might reboot itself in the near future.
Preview Episode: Who we are, what we're planning, what's coming next!
Join Charlie Murphy, actor & Director of Musical Theatre College Auditions (MTCA) as he chats with Broadway performers, college faculty members and industry pros about navigating the college audition process, earning a performing arts degree, and the role education plays in pursuing a career in the arts.
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