Anderson University Launches Musical Theatre Major

Anderson University's School of Music, Theatre, and Dance has launched a new musical theatre major. This faith-based institution will equip students with the tools necessary for a successful career, while creating a positive impact on the entertainment industry. With a small student-to-professor ratio, students work directly with faculty in courses such as entrepreneurship, film, music business, directing and creative writing. An expansive curriculum coupled with diverse performance opportunities in musicals, plays, operas, dance showcases and local symphonies allows students to tailor their experience beginning freshman year.

Anderson University students have participated in masterclass sessions with Broadway actors and industry professionals including Tony Yazbeck (On The Town, Tony nomination for leading actor), Aaron Lazar (The Last Ship, The Light in the Piazza), Katie Proctor (assistant casting director for RWS Entertainment Group), Valerie Maze (assistant conductor for Lyric Opera of Chicago) and many regional and national casting directors.

The School of Music, Theatre, and Dance is uniquely positioned to create triple threats with its rich musical history and expanding dance curriculum. Anderson's musical legacy includes world-renowned tenor Lawrence Brownlee, gospel-pioneers Bill and Gloria Gaither, pop artist Jon McLaughlin and acclaimed vocalist Sandi Patty. Alumni have been employed by notable organizations such as the Opera Theatre of St. Louis, Hessen State Theatre (Germany), Ballet Internationale and Disney World. Current musical theatre students have already found internships in New York City, while others have been placed into leading roles in regional summer stock theatres such as Clinton Showboat, The Barn Theatre and Mercury Theatre Company.

David Coolidge, director of musical theatre at Anderson University, has made it his goal to grow the major into the premier musical theatre program at a Christian university.

With more than a decade of professional experience as an actor and director in New York City and Los Angeles, Coolidge is back at AU in Indiana to educate his students in the necessary skills and tools to reach success.

Anderson University is excited to see the program grow over the coming years into the foremost musical theatre program at any faith-based university.

Anderson University is a private Christian university in central Indiana. Anderson University continues to be recognized as one of America's top colleges by U.S. News and World Report, Colleges of Distinction, The Princeton Review, and Forbes. Established in 1917 by the Church of God (Anderson, Ind.), Anderson University offers more than 50 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in business and theology.

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