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Auditions and Portfolios

Two students drawing in the campus quad
Students dancing on stage
A student performing the trumpet at the Recital Hall
Students performing on stage at the Sophia Gordon Center
Applying to our art, music, dance or theatre programs? Learn how to apply.
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Overview of Auditions and Portfolios

Several of Salem State's visual and performing arts programs require auditions, interviews, and/or portfolios as part of the admissions process. Review the application information and deadlines below for the program in which you plan to apply.

Art Applicants

Art Applicants

Art applicants must submit a portfolio of 10-15 pieces of original art and design work that use a variety of media and demonstrate a range of skills. Written descriptions for each portfolio piece should include the title, date, medium, dimensions, and a short explanation of the purpose of the project. Portfolios should be submitted online at salemstate.slideroom.com.

Applications will not be considered complete until all required credentials are submitted, please adhere to all admissions deadlines.

Dance Applicants

Bachelor of Art in Dance applicants are required to audition. Auditions can be completed either on campus or online through Get Acceptd.

On-Campus Audition Dates

Saturday, November 16, 2019
Saturday, February 29, 2020

Online Audition (Submit the Following on Get Acceptd)

  • Dance resumé, highlighting dance training and performing experience
  • Headshot
  • Interview

Video Submission Requirements

Submit one solo that is two to three minutes in length in the dance style of your choice. Solos can be self-choreographed or created by another choreographer. Please include the title of the dance, choreographer and music. Videos can be of a live performance or of a dance studio taping. 

Interview Requirements

Submit a written essay or video interview that answers why you want to pursue a major in dance.  

Theatre Applicants

BFA Theatre Audition/Portfolio Review Dates

Saturday, November 16, 2019, beginning at 11 am (after the admissions open house)
Saturday, December 7, 2019, beginning at 11 am
Saturday, February 8, 2020, beginning at 11 am

Please contact Ashley Preston in the theatre department at 978.542.6290 or apreston@salemstate.edu to schedule an audition. 

Bachelor of Arts vs. Bachelor of Fine Arts

There are two tracks in the theatre major to which students can apply:

  • Bachelor of Arts, BA (does not require an audition/portfolio)
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts, BFA (requires an audition/portfolio as part of the application review)

If you do not initially apply to the BFA as an incoming student you will have the opportunity to audition during your freshman year.

Audition Requirements for the BFA Theatre Performance Program

  • Prepare two monologues. The monologues should be contrasting styles, and each monologue should be about one minute long for a combined time of two minutes total.
  • Bring two copies of your theatre resume
  • Bring two copies of your headshot or a recent photograph

Portfolio Review/Interview Requirements for the BFA programs in Directing, Playwrighting, Stage Management, Technical Theatre, Theatre Design

  • Prepare a four-minute portfolio presentation. Your portfolio can include any relevant paperwork, photos, renderings, or production books you have from previous shows.
  • Bring two copies of your theatre resume
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