TheatreBridge Course Comments

TheatreBridge - Six Weeks of Immersive Theatre Study for High School Students

"I have just finished an incredible six weeks at TheatreBridge. I want to describe to you the experience I had and what it meant to me, however, this is nearly impossible to put into a few brief words, but, I will try...
From beginning to end, the summer was filled with surprises. The first unexpected surprise was that us "Bridgers" were living in our own dorm, somewhat separate from the rest of the kids at Brown. It was just the 22 of us and our wonderful RA's. Although at first I was very, very nervous about being surrounded by "theatre kids" for 6 weeks, this turned out to be one of the greatest aspects of the experience... I mean, who was I kidding? Clearly I myself am quite a theatre kid. Anyway, coming home after an intense day of class and being with people who understand exactly what you're going through and feeling was exactly what we all needed during TheatreBridge.

The need for this atmosphere was caused by the intensity of the classes. There were many days when we were in class from 9 a.m. until 10:30 p.m. with only about 3 hours of breaks throughout. The time alone was draining, but also, many of the exercises we did were physically and emotionally taxing. Still, it was these long days that pushed all of us to our breaking point and often at the same moment our best acting. It was also in these intense moments that we really came together as a group. On nights we did not have an evening class I found myself missing it!

Another great aspect of TB is the people outside the Bridgers who we got to work with. Daily, we worked with undergrads from Brown and a few other colleges. From helping us with the creation of theatre pieces to hanging out and talking about college and life, these undergrads became some of our best friends. We also got to attend and usher for the professional shows that went on at Brown. After the shows we met many of the actors and playwrights in class. Each show was fabulous and a perfect motivator to push harder in our classes.

Finally, I believe it is the teachers at Brown which set it apart from any other program. Not only is each teacher brilliant in his/her field, each one truly respected us as adults and "professionals". Of course, with this we were expected to act as adults, but it was completely worthwhile. For me, at least, there is nothing like a classroom experience where you know the teacher is giving you as much respect as you are giving them. On top of the in-class time, every student got to meet with each teacher outside of class, and some teachers went out to lunch or dinner with students on many, many occasions.

I will not say that TheatreBridge is for everyone, but I will say that this year's group included all different kinds of people, and I really believe each one had an incredible experience at Brown. It requires dedication and passion, but I promise that in the end, you will realize how FUN everything has been. Good luck!"

"Definition of a "Bridger"- The slang term given to those brave, willing, and courageous enough to accept the challenge that is surviving 6 emotionally, physically, and mentally exhausting weeks on the Brown University campus completing one of the most rigorous and brilliantly constructed pre-college Theatre programs in the country.

It has been only a few months since arriving back at home to wake up to a reality nothing like my home back at Brown. The TheatreBridge program encompassed my unrealized-potential and creatively pushed me to achieve things I could never have dreamed of accomplishing. During my stay at Brown for the TheatreBridge program, I found myself in a ,"bettered likeness of the world with all the dull parts left out." These wise words made by one of my acting professors, Mark Cohen, were perfect in describing Brown's TheatreBridge environment. Theatre is an art that allows individuals to explore certain paths of their emotions, physicalities, and limits.

Those who were willing went beyond their reality and embraced their fears, troubles, and shortcomings. TheatreBridge certainly isn't for everyone. However, it is for those who aren't afraid to stretch themselves and open up to new possibilities. I was able to overcome countless obstacles with the help of my classes, professors, personal motivation, and most importantly, peers.

The TheatreBridge environment attracts numerous individuals with unlimited potential, growing talent, motivation, and attitude. I never met anyone else like the rest of the Bridgers. These young men and women impressed and impacted me in a way I will never forget. I wouldn't have been able to push myself to my own limits without the help, care, and confidence of my now close and wonderful "family." I am proud to say that I made some of the best friends of my life with not just my peers, but with the undergraduate students that showed me what the real world of theatrical performance and critique is about. I grew very close with my teachers as well, who showed me how I can trust my instincts, follow my impulses, and succeed through any tough time or difficulty. I was given many personal options in every class to hold back, give in, open up, or explore. You could either run from or embrace the fear of discovery or joy in working towards someone you care about. This program became a part of me and towards the end of the summer I felt as if TheatreBridge was a second home.

Dedication and passion are what the creators of the TheatreBridge program had in mind when constructing a program that truly tested one's individual talent and ability. Every member of the TheatreBridge family had an experience at Brown they will never let go. I can only wish the new Bridgers luck, creativity, exploration, friendship, and fun! Do not be afraid to have a good time!"