Please note: Auditions are closed for summer 2023 and our rosters are filled. Please check back in November 2023 for audition information for Paper Mill’s Summer Professional Training Programs for 2024.
JUNE 26-JULY 29, 2023
For aspiring performers ages 10 to 18, Paper Mill Playhouse’s Summer Musical Theater Conservatory represents the ultimate opportunity to take your skills to the next level. Rigorous classes in acting, auditioning, vocal technique and dance are the focus of every morning led by professional actors, directors, and the Paper Mill professional creative team. The five-week training course culminates in the annual New Voices Concert live on the Paper Mill stage. Our Conservatory builds professional skills—so if you have the passion, talent, and drive it takes to be a performer, then this is the program for you.
The Conservatory is designed to enhance performance skills while instilling the technique, discipline, and professionalism needed to excel in the performing arts. Based on talent and the quality of your audition, if admitted you will be grouped into classes that allow you to build your individual technique, learn about yourself as a performer, and explore your potential all while working on material appropriate to your age and skill set.^ Audition appointments fill quickly so we encourage you to schedule a timeslot as soon as possible. All audition information can be found under the audition tab below.
^Accepted students will be placed into a class at the discretion of Paper Mill Playhouse faculty and staff based on their audition, performance skill level, and age. Placement determinations are not negotiable.
June 26—July 29, 2023
SCHEDULE
Monday -Friday
TIME
The Paper Mill Playhouse Summer Conservatory is a full day program running 8:45AM to 5:00PM. While the daily schedule is subject to change, technique classes are generally concentrated to the morning and early afternoon, with New Voices rehearsals taking place later in the day. All students have a 30-minute lunch break at midday.
LOCATION
Montclair State University in Montclair, NJ (weeks 1-4)
Paper Mill Playhouse and Paper Mill Studios in Millburn, NJ (week 5)
TUITION
$2,800‡
‡ The Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) offers limited tuition assistance scholarships for Conservatory eligible students proving need. The TAP application and income guidelines are located below.
Performers ages 10 to 18 are grouped into three companies based on age. The company divisions are as follows:
JUNIOR COMPANY – Performers ages 10 to 12
JUNIOR PLUS COMPANY – Performers ages 12 to 14
SENIOR COMPANY – Performers ages 15 to 18
Time during every instructional day is devoted to the development and rehearsals for New Voices, Paper Mill’s annual season finale student showcase. The title of the 2023 New Voices Concert is “We Will Rock You!” The concert will celebrate the sounds that revolutionized the Broadway musical!
For a look at past New Voices Concerts or to see our digital production of the 2022 Concert “A Whole New World: A Tribute to Alan Menken”, CLICK HERE.
Tuition assistance is available in two forms to accepted students.
Merit Scholarships may be awarded to outstanding auditioners who show promise and potential during the audition process. Merit Scholarships are indicated in determination letters.
Additionally, the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) provides financial aid to families based on need. Please refer to the posted income guidelines for scholarship eligibility. If you are eligible and request tuition assistance, you must complete the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) application by March 24, 2023 and provide all requested support material.
TAP Income Eligibility Guidelines
TAP Request Form
To participate in the Summer Training Programs, all admitted performers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. “Fully vaccinated” is defined by the CDC as someone who is two weeks after their initial dose(s). As it becomes recommended by the CDC, all students must receive booster shots when available. Enrolled students must provide proof of vaccination (or documentation of a first shot) no later than March 24, 2023, when the program deposit is due. This policy is in accordance with all Actor’s Equity Association and IATSE Local 21 guidelines who govern the rules for usage of the Paper Mill mainstage where classes and the New Voices Concert take place. APPLICATIONS FOR VERIFIABLE VACCINE EXEMPTIONS MAY BE REQUESTED. Should you have questions regarding this policy, please contact Summer@PaperMill.org.
Please note: Auditions are closed for summer 2023 and our rosters are filled. Please check back in November 2023 for audition information for Paper Mill’s Summer Professional Training Programs for 2024.
Students may self -select their audition date and time via our account on Sign-Up Genius. Audition appointment times are grouped by age with time slots available throughout the day.
Please review the available slots and click on the button to sign up. PLEASE SELECT ONLY ONE APPOINTMENT DAY AND TIME.
You will receive two confirmation emails. One will be from Sign-Up Genius acknowledging your selection. The second email will come from summer@papermill.org which will provide more details and instructions. It will be sent within 3 business days of your registration. Audition appointments fill quickly so we encourage you to schedule a time slot as soon as possible.
Out of state students or those unable to audition in person may submit a video audition. Please review the Video Audition Submission Guidelines which includes a link to a portal to upload a video.
Video Audition Submission Guidelines
Faculty and staff for Summer 2023 will be updated soon.
