Best theatre schools in Florida?

I'm a high school junior trying to figure out where I want to go for college. I love theatre and want to stay in Florida for school. What are some of the top theatre programs and schools in Florida?

Florida has a variety of strong theatre programs to choose from, so staying in-state can offer you some fantastic opportunities. Some of the top theatre schools in Florida include:

1. Florida State University (FSU): FSU's School of Theatre is known for its well-rounded curriculum in both performance and production. Their Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program offers several tracks like Acting, Music Theatre, and Theatre Design & Technology. FSU also has a highly competitive BFA program in Music Theatre, which regularly produces successful performers bound for Broadway and beyond.

2. University of Central Florida (UCF): UCF boasts a comprehensive Department of Theatre with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Theatre Studies, which allows students to explore both performance and technical aspects of theatre. For those seeking a more specialized program, UCF also offers a BFA in Acting and Stage Management.

3. University of Florida (UF): The School of Theatre and Dance at UF provides a diverse selection of programs and performance opportunities. They offer the BA in Theatre and a BFA in Theatre Production, which features concentrations in Acting, Costume Design, Lighting Design, Scenic Design, and Stage Management.

4. University of Miami (UM): UM's Department of Theatre Arts offers a BA in Theatre Arts with three different tracks: Performance, Design/Production, and Management. They provide a well-rounded education and numerous performance opportunities, including a partnership with the Jerry Herman Ring Theatre, which hosts a variety of productions throughout the year.

5. Florida International University (FIU): The Department of Theatre at FIU offers a BA in Theatre with two primary tracks: Performance and Design/Technical Production. Their curriculum balances theory and practice, and students have the opportunity to participate in various productions to gain hands-on experience.

As you research these schools, I recommend visiting the campuses, attending performances, and speaking with current students and faculty to get an accurate sense of each program's strengths and what they can offer you. Each school may have different requirements, audition processes, and expectations, so be sure to familiarize yourself with those as well. And don't forget to consider broader campus culture as well - you want to be sure you choose a school where you'll thrive personally, as well as theatrically! Good luck in your search!