Theatre Under the Stars

Humphreys School Academy FAQ

What is the HSMT Academy? 

The HSMT Academy is a yearlong conservatory style program for students interested in honing their skills in Musical Theatre. In contrast to Open Enrollment courses, Academy level courses are designed to allow students to move up in curriculum and skill level as they progress through the years. 

What type of courses are offered in the HSMT Academy? 

HSMT Academy offers a multitude of courses including Acting, Music, Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Audition Skills, and College Prep. 

What are the HSMT Academy audition requirements? 

Students aged 8 through gap year are eligible to audition for the Academy. New students must audition in all three disciplines, regardless of their interests. This will include choosing, memorizing, and performing a one-minute monologue, a 16-bar cut from a musical theatre song, and participating in a group dance call where they will be assessed in Ballet, Jazz, and Tap. Monologue and song choices must be age appropriate (family friendly language and within the student’s age range). On the day of their audition, students are also required to provide an 8×10 headshot and performance resume. The acting/vocal part of the audition should not exceed four minutes (this includes the presentation of their pieces as well as their slate). 

How many students are accepted into the HSMT Academy each year? 

There is no set number of Academy spots and admission figures vary from year to year. HSMT will accept as many students as possible who are ready for the level of training HSMT offers and we are able to accommodate given our space and resources. It is important for students to understand that they are not competing against each other for Academy admission. 

What can students expect after completing their HSMT Academy Audition? 

All admission status notifications, which are sent by email, will not be sent out until after the final audition in early August. If accepted, an email will be sent to students/parents with a host of information and instructions. This information includes course placements, scholarship information, course schedule, Academy Handbook and Code of Conduct, and the Academy Timeline. 

Does HSMT offer scholarships for Academy courses? 

Yes! HSMT offers scholarships for Academy courses. If accepted into the program, more information on scholarships will be included in the registration email. 

How about tuition costs and scheduling? 

Pricing varies by year and often depends on the course. Pricing for Academy courses will be displayed online when registering. Academy classes meet Monday-Thursday and Saturday. During the week, classes meet anywhere from 5pm-9pm. While some courses have multiple options for days/times, most courses have only one option. Most Academy courses meet once a week for 60-90 minutes and the HSMT Academy year runs from mid-September to mid-March. The number of classes a student takes depends on their course placements and individual schedules. On average, Academy students take 2-3 courses a year and attend classes 2 evenings a week.

What are some of the performance related opportunities offered to HSMT Academy students? 

HSMT Academy students are offered a variety or performance/audition opportunities throughout the year depending on the needs of the school and Theatre Under The Stars. Some of these opportunities include TUTS mainstage shows, Junior Theatre Festival, Miller Outdoor Theatre productions, and the HSMT Performance Troupe. 

Please do not hesitate to each out to the HSMT office with any additional questions / hsmt@tuts.com / 713-558-8801