The American Academy of Dramatic Arts is the only degree-granting conservatory for actors, and alumni (including Grace Kelly, Kirk Douglas, Kim Cattrall and Danny DeVito) have so far received nominations for 72 Oscars, 233 Emmys and 83 Tonys.
Students studying theatre at colleges in the US can participate in the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival (KCACTF), a national theatre program involving 18,000 students that offers lots of awards. For instance, a student from Indiana University won the 2007 Mark Twain Comedy Playwriting Award.
Don't assume only arts schools have theatre programs! The Theatre Arts division at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University dates back to 1898 when the school president's wife founded the A & M Players (until 1915, the University was called the Agricultural and Mechanical College).
At the Juilliard School's Drama Division, approximately 1,000 candidates audition for about 18 freshman places each year. Alumni include Laura Linney, Kelsey Grammar, Kevin Spacey and Val Kilmer. |