Passaic Today

Montclair State University's Theatre/Acting program has achieved a significant accolade, being ranked No. 2 among the best acting schools in New Jersey by Backstage Magazine. The publication praised the university's rigorous curriculum and professional faculty.

Backstage highlighted several factors contributing to Montclair's ranking, including the College of the Arts' dance theater program and the success of alumni such as Josh Dela Cruz, host of "Blues Clues & You!" The school's proximity to New York City was also noted as a beneficial factor.

The recognition underscores Montclair's success in launching its graduates into careers on Broadway, television, and film. Associate Professor Heather Benton, head of Montclair’s BFA Acting program, expressed satisfaction with the acknowledgment: “We’re pleased that Backstage has recognized our program and the accomplishments of our alumni.” She added that their professors are working actors and directors with strong reputations among casting professionals.

Montclair's acting program is distinguished by its dynamic approach designed to prepare students for today's entertainment industry. Students receive diverse training in techniques such as Meisner, Stella Adler, Stanislavsky, Viewpoints, Suzuki, and Lucid Body method. Classes focus on film and TV readiness with opportunities for self-taping and direction through collaboration with Montclair’s School of Communication and Media.

The curriculum also includes career preparation activities like mock auditions and workshops. A senior-year showcase features panels of NYC casting directors who provide feedback. Physical and vocal training emphasize movement techniques including clowning, combat, world dance, Viewpoints, Suzuki method along with Miller Voice Method taught by certified instructors.

Montclair’s location just 12 miles from NYC provides students access to professional playwrights, directors, casting agents through partnerships like a three-year residency with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Benton explains that their philosophy introduces students to various aspects of training most beneficial for actors: “By senior year...students have this enormous toolbox of techniques.” This prepares them for professional life by allowing them to develop their unique process.

Alumni success stories include Kira Player from "Harry Potter & the Cursed Child" on Broadway who credits her diligence-focused training at Montclair; Robinson earning a spot on "Stomp!" tour; Nathan Angelo making his Broadway debut in "Here Lies Love"; Ethan Metz appearing alongside Jennifer Lawrence in "No Hard Feelings!"; Misha Osherovich known for roles in films like "Freaky" (2020); Nicole D’Angelo winning a Drama Desk Award as Assistant Music Director on Broadway’s "How to Dance in Ohio."

With an evolving curriculum blending tradition with innovation aimed at building lasting careers across theatre-film-television industries - Montclair State University remains an attractive destination for aspiring actors seeking comprehensive education within performing arts fields.