Musical Theatre Writing Portfolio

Application Deadline:  February 1

A creative portfolio and a separate essay application are required and must be submitted directly to the Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program. You can download a copy of the Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program Departmental Application from the GMTW Application Download Request page. If you would prefer to have one sent to you, please contact Marie Costanza at 212.998.1831 or e-mail at musical.theatre@nyu.edu.

The most important criteria for admission are talent and the ability to work collaboratively. A bachelor's degree is required of all applicants. Writers who have had extensive practical experience or have remained in a more traditional academic setting are encouraged to apply.

Prepare the following items for your creative portfolio:

Composers and Lyricists

(Enclose two copies of each)

1. A standard-size CD containing no more than 20 minutes of material that you believe reflects your most skilled and innovative work. The material you choose should clearly indicate your ability to work in song form. Excerpts from a musical theatre piece are preferred but not necessary. If available, provide a copy of the libretto for the musical.
2. A score, lyric sheets, charts, etc., relevant to the work on the CD. Excerpts from a musical theatre piece are preferred but not necessary. If available, provide a copy of the libretto for the musical.
3. Samples of other work (your choice) with a description.
4. Printed reviews of your work (if available).

Bookwriters and Playwrights

(Enclose two copies of each)

1. A script for a musical theatre piece.
2. A standard size CD containing songs written for the same piece (If available).
3. Printed reviews of your work (if available).

Or

If you have not yet created a musical theatre piece, provide us with a sampling of your creative writing that demonstrates a sense of lyricism. You may send one or both of the following:

1. A script of a full length play (or a collection of short plays) written for the theatre, film, or television.  
2. A collection of poetry or prose essays.
   

You should fill out the Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Departmental Application and complete the appropriate exercise(s) specific to your area of interest. Place two copies of the essay application, the relevant exercises, a copy of your professional résumé, and the portfolio in one package and submit it in person or by mail so that it is received on or before February 1st  to:

Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program
Tisch School of the Arts
New York University
113A Second Avenue, 1st Floor
New York, NY 10003-8388

The Creative Portfolio Contents Guide Sheet is not required.

Your creative materials will be evaluated only after the admission application has been received by the Office of Graduate Admissions along with all necessary supporting documents.