If you dream of becoming a professional performer, finding the right school is essential. With so many options available, choosing the right professional performing arts school can shape your future career. These schools provide the rigorous training needed to excel in drama, music, and dance, while offering opportunities to collaborate with professionals in the industry.
Pursuing a career in performing arts requires dedication, years of practice, and guidance from experts. Professional performing arts schools provide an immersive environment where students learn from the best while honing their craft in acting, singing, or dancing.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about professional performing arts schools, including the top 10 schools for 2024, so you can make an informed choice and start your career on the right path.
Table of Contents
- What is Performing Arts?
- Professional Performing Arts Schools vs. Regular High Schools
- 10 Best Professional Performing Arts Schools
- Central School of Speech and Drama, University of London
- California Institute of the Arts
- Carnegie Mellon School of Drama
- The Old Globe and the University of San Diego
- DePaul University’s School of Theatre, Film, and Television
- Guildhall School of Music & Drama
- Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts
- Juilliard School
- London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts
- Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
- FAQs
- Conclusion
- References
- Recommendations
What is Performing Arts?
Performing arts encompass a wide range of creative expressions, such as acting, dance, and music, performed live before an audience. Professional performing arts schools specialize in training students to master these skills through intensive programs that combine theoretical learning with practical experiences. Attending a top-tier school can be your gateway to a successful career in film, theatre, or music.
Many of these schools have strict admissions criteria, with competitive audition processes. For example, institutions like Juilliard and the Central School of Speech and Drama, University of London, have an acceptance rate as low as 1%, underscoring their prestigious status.
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Professional Performing Arts Schools vs. Regular High Schools
The main difference between professional performing arts schools and regular high schools lies in their curriculum. Professional schools integrate intense performing arts training with academic coursework, while regular schools may only offer performing arts as extracurricular activities or elective subjects. This specialization allows students at professional schools to focus heavily on developing their artistic talents.
At a professional performing arts school, students choose from a variety of majors, including drama, music, and dance. In contrast, students at regular high schools often get limited exposure to performing arts and may not have access to the same level of professional mentorship or performance opportunities.
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10 Best Professional Performing Arts Schools in 2024
Here’s a curated list of the best professional performing arts schools in 2024, where you can build a strong foundation for a career in the arts.
1. Central School of Speech and Drama, University of London
- Location: London, England
- Tuition and Fees: £20,000 – £30,000
- Programs Offered: BA (Hons) in Acting, MA in Acting
- Acceptance Rate: 1%
The Central School of Speech and Drama is often referred to as “British Hollywood” due to its prestigious reputation in the performing arts world. Graduates have starred in major productions such as Game of Thrones and Harry Potter. Notable alumni include Martin Freeman and Judi Dench.
Visit Central School of Speech and Drama
2. California Institute of the Arts
- Location: Valencia, USA
- Tuition and Fees: $35,000 – $60,000
- Programs Offered: BFA in Acting, MFA in Acting
- Acceptance Rate: 29%
Founded by Walt Disney, CalArts has a legacy of producing top talent in the entertainment industry. The school offers diverse programs that cover various aspects of performance, and its alumni include Tim Burton and Alison Brie.
Visit California Institute of the Arts
3. Carnegie Mellon School of Drama
- Location: Pittsburgh, USA
- Tuition and Fees: $40,000 – $50,000
- Programs Offered: BFA in Acting, MFA in Acting
- Acceptance Rate: 13.5%
Carnegie Mellon School of Drama consistently ranks among the top schools worldwide for acting. Its rigorous program prepares students for careers in both stage and screen. Famous alumni include William Atherton and Hale Appleman.
Visit Carnegie Mellon School of Drama
4. The Old Globe and the University of San Diego
- Location: San Diego, USA
- Tuition and Fees: $40,000 – $45,000
- Programs Offered: MFA in Acting
- Acceptance Rate: 2%
Known for its exclusive graduate theatre program, The Old Globe in partnership with USD offers intensive training led by experienced industry professionals. Alumni include Jim Parsons, known for his role in The Big Bang Theory.
5. DePaul University’s School of Theatre, Film, and Television
- Location: Chicago, USA
- Tuition and Fees: $35,000 – $40,000
- Programs Offered: BFA in Acting, MFA in Acting
- Acceptance Rate: 68%
DePaul University offers a comprehensive acting program with an emphasis on creativity and innovation. The school’s alumni include notable actors such as Gillian Anderson and Judy Greer.
6. Guildhall School of Music & Drama
- Location: London, England
- Tuition and Fees: £20,000-£25,000
- Programs Offered: BA (Hons) in Acting, MA in Acting
- Acceptance Rate: 10%
This prestigious institution boasts alumni such as Daniel Craig and Ewan McGregor. The school is known for its rigorous training and its top-notch facilities that support the students’ growth as performers.
Visit Guildhall School of Music & Drama
7. Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts
- Location: London, England
- Tuition and Fees: £20,000 – £25,000
- Programs Offered: BA (Hons) in Acting, MA in Acting
- Acceptance Rate: 10%
With a history of over 100 years, Italia Conti is one of the oldest and most respected performing arts schools. Graduates include Gabrielle Anwar and Brian Aherne.
8. Juilliard School
- Location: New York, USA
- Tuition and Fees: $40,000 – $50,000
- Programs Offered: BFA in Drama, MFA in Drama
- Acceptance Rate: 7.4%
Juilliard has produced some of the most talented actors and performers in the world, including Jessica Chastain and Adam Driver. The school offers world-class training in the heart of New York City.
9. London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA)
- Location: London, England
- Tuition and Fees: £14,000 – £20,000
- Programs Offered: BA (Hons) in Acting, MA in Classical Acting
- Acceptance Rate: 75-80%
LAMDA offers exceptional training for actors, with many graduates working at prestigious theatres such as the Royal Shakespeare Company. Benedict Cumberbatch is one of the notable alumni.
10. Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
- Location: London, England
- Tuition and Fees: £14,000 – £22,000
- Programs Offered: BA (Hons) in Acting, BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre
- Acceptance Rate: 75-80%
Mountview provides a vibrant learning environment with state-of-the-art facilities, including acting studios, theatres, and more. Graduates include Kelly Adams and Emily Aboud.
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FAQs
What is the hardest professional performing arts school to get into?
Juilliard is known for being the most competitive, with a selective admission process.
Which is the most expensive performing arts school?
Juilliard also ranks as one of the most expensive, with tuition fees reaching up to $50,000 per year.
Are professional performing arts schools worth it?
Yes, they provide specialized training, mentorship, and networking opportunities that can significantly enhance your career prospects.
Conclusion
Choosing the right professional performing arts school can be the key to unlocking a successful career in the entertainment industry. These schools not only offer world-class education but also provide a platform for you to showcase your talent. Whether you’re drawn to acting, dance, or music, each school on this list offers something unique to help you develop your craft.
Ensure you have the passion and drive required to succeed before applying, as the competition is fierce, but the rewards are great!
