A Sort of Three Day Weekend

...but not for me. My interview was smack dab in the middle of my holiday.

I went for my UCLA interview on Sunday, at 2:00 PM. It was difficult because everyone else had an idea what their interview would entail. Scene design majors were asked to bring in sketches and a portfolio; actors of course went through an audition process; playwright were asked to bring in writing samples and/or a completed script. But, the directors, the major I decided on, were asked to come prepared to discuss a play I would like to direct. That's it!

The interviewer, Rich Rose explained that with other majors there is something to see. Design students bring something in to show, actors audition, but with directors it's all about intellect. They do not have the time or the means to set up half hour intervals for perspective directing students to direct a small group of actors in a short scene. That's what conservatory schools do, such as Juilliard and Tisch. He was very clear that UCLA is a BA program not a BFA. He continued to say that he's usually cautious about taking directing students because a lot of people know what the hell it is. There is certain type of mind which is required for direction. He said he needs to find out, while pointing at his head, "what going on in here."

I explained it was difficult to prepare for this interview because the website didn't give much information. But, I did my best in answering his questions. I told him that I was from an acting background and I really enjoy story telling. He countered by saying, "It's not so much story telling as it is being practical. You need to be very specific in your analysis and still be able to hook on your own ideas. You become an extension of the playwright."

I told him my approach to the play Holy Ghost, and I did sound very philosophical, and he called me on it. He said he need something more practical. It took him a moment but he got out of me what, I think he needed. It told him Holy Ghost is about exorcising your demons, redemption and the journey of people telling their story to heal themselves.

I spent a good deal of time talking about character and he reassured me that of course I did, because I was from an acting background. I felt he was impressed that I "got it". But, I can't be sure. UCLA only accepts 15 directors to the program and usually 89% of them are freshmen. Then the following year the number is cut drastically, only about 8 or 9 continue on. By the time senior year comes around there are only 4 or 5 on the directing path. There were a lot of acting auditioners/interviews, he said out of the whole San Francisco weekend he only saw 3 directing majors come through, and there were a lot of kids there.

So.... We'll see! I'm not even sure UCLA is the place for me. It's a rigorous program and they do have a lot of successful directors come out of there. But, the program leaves little time to pursue other interests, such as science, humanities, etc. UCSC does!