Senior BFA Acting and Musical Theatre students in the School of Theatre & Dance at West Virginia University are taking part in one last learning experience before receiving their diploma.

The Class of 2018 will be in New York City May 7-8 for a series of events including a night of performance at Birdland, the famous jazz club.  

Students will first perform showcases of scenes or songs for invited entertainment industry professionals, including talent agents, casting directors and career managers from the New York City area on May 8.

The night before, students will attend Jim Caruso’s Cast Party, an open-mic, off-Broadway cabaret event held weekly since 2003 at Birdland. BFA Musical Theatre students will perform as part of the party.  

The goal of the trip is to help graduating students make industry contacts and create work opportunities for the future. It is also a transitional experience for the students as they move into their professional careers.  

“Our students have had an intensive four-year training at WVU and now they prepare to embark on their career,” said Lee Blair, assistant professor of theatre. “We have nurtured and guided them in every aspect of theatre – from acting to speech to movement – and this is their first chance to show the world what they have to offer.”

In total, 19 students majoring in acting and musical theatre will take part in the events in New York. WVU is the only university in the state to offer a showcase opportunity in a major entertainment hub to its students.

WVU alumni and other guests in the New York area are invited to attend Jim Caruso’s Cast Party on May 7 at 9:30 p.m., to experience the work being done by the School of Theatre & Dance and its current students. Birdland is located at  315 West 44th St New York, NY 10036. The event is open to the public. Birdland has a $30 cover with a $10 food and drink minimum.