»How to Apply - Creative Supplement

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BFA in Animation and Visual Effects program:

• Creative Resume.
• Portfolio.

1. Creative Resume

Provide a resume highlighting 5-7 pieces of your best creative projects (1 page maximum).

These projects should demonstrate your ability to convey a story or message through creative, artistic or technical talents. As we are only asking for a limited number of projects, include more recent items and projects in which you were the driving force or had a leadership role. These can include class assignments, projects from jobs or internships, or your personal hobbies and freelance work.

Your resume should not contain the projects themselves. It is simply a written description of your projects.

Use this format to structure your resume:

Title: title of the project (length of project if applicable)

Reason for creating/Date of creation: You may write “freelance” if it was something you did on your own.

Description of item: An in-depth description of the piece, the inspiration or objective, and your specific role in its creation. Also list any awards or special recognition you may have received for the piece.

Creative Resume example:

Articles for the School Newspaper

Journalism I class, 2022

I wrote several feature articles on various topics from the constant flooding of the men’s bathroom to vandalism on campus. I also did a film review for every issue. I helped with the layout of the paper as well as selecting the final photographs.

2. Portfolio

Please note that a direct link to upload this requirement will appear on your application checklist once the Common App has been submitted.

Applicants will be asked to indicate their interest in one of the three areas of study: 2D Animation, 3D Animation, and Visual Effects. Admitted students are not required to commit to an emphasis until the Fall semester of their sophomore year. 

The following recommendations are intended to be guidelines for admission into the program. We encourage you to demonstrate relevant skills based in the area of study you are most interested in. If you are not certain which area of emphasis you are interested in, you may submit a combination of samples from each of the three areas. If you do not have access to 3D and VFX software, you may submit a portfolio of 2D items while still indicating a preferred emphasis in 3D or VFX.

The use of AI-generated content of any kind will not be accepted for 2026 portfolio applications. applications.

Part 1

All applicants must submit 20 total jpeg/png examples of work. The breakdown is below:

• 2D Animation Recommendation:
  • 5 sample images with multiple drawings/quick sketches of people and animals that convey energy, movement, emotion, and personality through a few simple lines. Drawings should be done in a studio and in public settings. Suggested venues for gesture drawings are parks, zoos, beaches, restaurants, museums, and malls.
  • 10-12 images showing designs of original characters, environments, or props. Multiple drawings per page of the same design from different perspective angles. Characters should include dynamic poses that convey a range of emotions and body attitudes. Submissions may include sketchbook pages.
  • 3-5 storyboard or comic book panels with good composition, staging and clear storytelling. Versatility in drawing and design styles is a plus. 
• 3D Animation Recommendation:
  • 5 sample images with multiple drawings/quick sketches of people and animals that convey energy, movement, emotion, and personality through a few simple lines. Drawings should be done in a studio and in public settings. Suggested venues for gesture drawings are parks, zoos, beaches, restaurants, museums, and malls.
  • 15 Samples of 3D work using any 3D software packages that display fundamental proficiency in two or more of the following: modeling, rigging, prop design, lighting, set creation and 3D animation. 2D illustrations and concept design of characters and environments can also be included.
• Visual Effects Recommendation:
  • 5 samples of traditional artwork that emphasizes visual communication, staging, composition, lighting and color. 
  • A selection of 15 single frame samples of work, showing fundamental proficiency in any of the following: 3D techniques, modeling, rigging, prop design, lighting, set creation and 3D animation. You can also include still images that show manipulation of photographic content, digital illustration integrated with photoreal content. 2D illustrations and concept design of characters and environments can also be included.

Part 2 

All applicants must also submit a video submission (.mov and .mp4). The breakdown is below: 

• 2D Animation Recommendation:
  • Animation that demonstrates fundamentals of weight, physics, timing, and personality.
  • Animatics of storyboard samples, plus strong character posing and performance that conveys emotion and drives the story.
• 3D Animation and VFX Recommendation: Submit samples that include some or all of the following:
  • 3D or 2D animation that demonstrates fundamentals of weight, physics, timing, and personality.
  • 3D content or 2D content that demonstrates fundamental narrative and visual communication skills, editing, staging, and composition.
  • Examples that demonstrate integration of digital art and live action content including basic compositing skills such as masking, roto, matte painting, and camera tracking.
  • VFX simulations, 3D characters or creature animation using any 3D software packages.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BFA in Art program:

• Statement of Interest.
• Portfolio of 8–10 pieces.
• Optional letter of recommendation.

1. Statement of Interest

Please describe why you are interested in studying studio art at Chapman University, including your artistic and educational goals, and the academic and non-academic interests that influence your art.

500 words or fewer.

2. Portfolio of 8–10 pieces

Upload 8-10 examples from your portfolio that you feel best demonstrates your artistic talents. You may include design, drawing, photography, painting, ceramics, sculpture, or video.

3. Optional letter of recommendation

Submit an optional letter of recommendation from an art teacher or art mentor that speaks to your creative talents and merits as a student.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BM in Composition program:

• Pre-Screen Audition Video.
• Notated scores and audio recordings of three to five original works.
• Goal Statement.

1. Pre-Screen Audition Video

All applicants must submit a pre-screen audition video. All videos should include the following:

• Introduce yourself and briefly describe your performing experience.
• Briefly state why you want to attend Chapman University.
• Announce the title of your piece and the name of the composer before you begin your performance.
• Do not edit your video. Each piece must be continuous and unedited.
• Check your recording before uploading to make sure both audio and video are present.
• Instrumental audition video length is determined by the content requirements.
• Vocal audition video length should be no more than five to six minutes.

Specific video audition requirements for your chosen instrument or voice are found below.

• Brass auditions.
• Collaborative Piano auditions.
• Guitar auditions.
• Percussion auditions.
• Solo Piano auditions.
• Strings auditions.
• Vocal auditions.
• Woodwinds auditions.

2. Notated scores and audio recordings of three to five original works

Submit notated scores and audio recordings of three to five of your original works.

3. Goal Statement

Describe your long-term personal and professional goals and discuss how the degree program and area of study you wish to pursue at Chapman will help you meet those goals.

500 words max.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BFA in Creative Producing program:

• Creative Resume.
• Major Requirement Essay.
• Self-Introduction Video.

1. Creative Resume

Provide a resume highlighting 5-7 pieces of your best creative projects (1 page maximum).

These projects should demonstrate your ability to convey a story or message through creative, artistic or technical talents. As we are only asking for a limited number of projects, include more recent items and projects in which you were the driving force or had a leadership role. These can include class assignments, projects from jobs or internships, or your personal hobbies and freelance work.

Your resume should not contain the projects themselves. It is simply a written description of your projects.

Use this format to structure your resume:

Title: Title of the project (length of project if applicable)

Reason for creating/Date of creation: You may write “freelance” if it was something you did on your own.

Description of item: An in-depth description of the piece, the inspiration or objective, and your specific role in its creation. Also list any awards or special recognition you may have received for the piece.

Creative Resume example:

Articles for the School Newspaper

Journalism I class, 2022

I wrote several feature articles on various topics from the constant flooding of the men’s bathroom to vandalism on campus. I also did a film review for every issue. I helped with the layout of the paper as well as selecting the final photographs.

2. Major Requirement Essay

Prompt

In no more than 2 pages, please plan an event and include all the details that you would need to prepare for including, but not limited to, the budget, venue, marketing, specific guest list or types and how many, why you are doing this, food, entertainment, wardrobe direction, menu, speakers, performers, etc. While you have full creative control over what this event is, the more details you include and plan for, the better. And originality matters.

There must be two additional people on your team that you are in charge of coordinating. These two people can have any role or skillsets that you choose, and they must be included in your planning structure.

There must be at least one (1) dilemma that you face that you will have to adjust your plan for. You determine the dilemma and explain how you planned accordingly. For example, two people that are vital to the event have had a falling out and refuse to work with each other (Please note, you must choose your own dilemma and cannot use the example provided).

Formatting

This essay should be typed in Times New Roman, 12 font, one-inch margins, single-spaced and no longer than two (2) pages in length. You may not use bullet points; this must be in essay format with full sentences. First person language is fine to utilize.

3. Self-Introduction Video

A direct link to upload this requirement will appear on your Application Status Page once the rest of the Creative Supplement has been submitted.

Prompt

In this video, you will have a trusted family member or friend interview you. You must answer the following questions:

1. What film or television series had a profound impact on your decision to pursue producing?
2. In your own words, describe what a producer does and explain which aspect(s) of this path are most intriguing to you?
3. Outside of your immediate family members, who has had a major influence on your life and helped get you to where you are today?

Instructions

You must be facing the camera for the duration of the interview. Your interviewer does not need to be on camera. Please keep the video to no more than three (3) minutes in length.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BA in Dance program:

• Creative Supplement Goal Statement.
• Dance Resume.
• Photograph.
• Pre-Screen Audition Videos.

1. Creative Supplement Goal Statement

The mission of the Chapman University Department of Dance is to develop well-rounded and versatile artists to excel in careers of teaching, choreography and performance of dance. Why are you pursuing this well rounded training? Note who we are (and are not) and describe how you are a great fit for this environment and how this department helps support your unique dreams.

500 words or fewer.

2. Dance Resume

This should include your training, teachers, performance and technical experience. Include the names of dance directors and choreographers with whom you have worked, as well as any media work you have done. You may want to include awards and any summer scholarships you have received.

3. Photograph

Please upload a photo of yourself so we can identify you; professional headshots are not required.

4. Pre-Screen Audition Videos

Your pre-screen audition videos should consist of a brief introduction and a dance solo performance. We’ll evaluate your technical prowess, presence, musicality, expression and performance quality to determine your eligibility for a talent scholarship. 

• Introduction Video: In 60 seconds or less, state your name, tell us where you're from and outline your performing experience. Please explain why you want to attend Chapman. Be sure to use a medium shot (from chest up).
• Dance Audition Video: Prepare a two minute dance solo demonstrating a wide range of your dance technique and artistry. It may be a dance you choreographed or a dance someone has choreographed for you (please be sure to credit the choreographer). No zooming, close ups, or editing within the video. If you have skills in more than one dance form (jazz, modern, ballet, tap etc.) you may present two separate shorter pieces to demonstrate your talent. Please note: regardless of number of solos presented, style, or genre we ask that we see movement criteria such as transitioning to and from the floor, jumping, balancing, travelling, and moments of full body expansion.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BFA in Design program:

• Statement of Interest.
• Portfolio of 8–10 pieces.
• Optional letter of recommendation.

1. Statement of Interest

Provide insight to your creative background and experiences. What about Chapman's Design program appeals to you? 

500 words or fewer.

2. Portfolio of 8–10 pieces

Upload 8-10 examples from your portfolio that you feel best demonstrates your artistic talents. You may include design, drawing, photography, painting, ceramics, sculpture, or video.

3. Optional letter of recommendation

Submit an optional letter of recommendation from an art teacher or art mentor that speaks to your creative talents and merits as a student.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BFA in Documentary, Sports Media and Journalism program (any emphasis):

• Creative Resume.
• Major Requirement Essay.

1. Creative Resume

Provide a resume highlighting 5-7 pieces of your best creative projects (1 page maximum).

These projects should demonstrate your ability to convey a story or message through creative, artistic or technical talents. As we are only asking for a limited number of projects, include more recent items and projects in which you were the driving force or had a leadership role. These can include class assignments, projects from jobs or internships, or your personal hobbies and freelance work.

Your resume should not contain the projects themselves. It is simply a written description of your projects.

Use this format to structure your resume:

Title: Title of the project (length of project if applicable)

Reason for creating/Date of creation: You may write “freelance” if it was something you did on your own.

Description of item: An in-depth description of the piece, the inspiration or objective, and your specific role in its creation. Also list any awards or special recognition you may have received for the piece.

Creative Resume example:

Articles for the School Newspaper

Journalism I class, 2022

I wrote several feature articles on various topics from the constant flooding of the men’s bathroom to vandalism on campus. I also did a film review for every issue. I helped with the layout of the paper as well as selecting the final photographs.

2. Major Requirement Essay

Prompt

In no more than two (2) pages, talk about an issue in the news that is important to you and why. Why is it important to the public at large? Are there aspects of the story that are getting too little attention in the media coverage? Please cite supporting research or information that would support your conclusions.

Formatting

Your essay should be typed, single-spaced, 12 pt. Times New Roman font, one-inch margins on all sides. Remember to title your essay.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BA in Film and Media Studies program:

• Creative Resume.
• Major Requirement Essay.

1. Creative Resume

Provide a resume highlighting 5-7 pieces of your best creative projects (1 page maximum).

These projects should demonstrate your ability to convey a story or message through creative, artistic or technical talents. As we are only asking for a limited number of projects, include more recent items and projects in which you were the driving force or had a leadership role. These can include class assignments, projects from jobs or internships, or your personal hobbies and freelance work.

Your resume should not contain the projects themselves. It is simply a written description of your projects.

Use this format to structure your resume:

Title: Title of the project (length of project if applicable)

Reason for creating/Date of creation: You may write “freelance” if it was something you did on your own.

Description of item: An in-depth description of the piece, the inspiration or objective, and your specific role in its creation. Also list any awards or special recognition you may have received for the piece.

Creative Resume example:

Articles for the School Newspaper

Journalism I class, 2022

I wrote several feature articles on various topics from the constant flooding of the men’s bathroom to vandalism on campus. I also did a film review for every issue. I helped with the layout of the paper as well as selecting the final photographs.

2. Major Requirement Essay

Prompt

In no more than 2 pages, write an analysis of a film released in 2026 that strongly resonated with you. Focus on the film's execution and delivery of themes or messages, particularly how specific uses of the cinematic aesthetic (such as cinematography, editing, and sound) contributed to the overall impact.

Formatting

Your essay should be typed, single-spaced, 12 pt. Times New Roman font, one-inch margins on all sides. Remember to title your essay.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BA in Film and Television Production program:

• Creative Resume.
• Visual Sample.
• Writing Sample.
• Capstone Essay (Directing Emphasis only).

1. Creative Resume 

Provide a resume highlighting 5-7 pieces of your best creative projects (1 page maximum).

These projects should demonstrate your ability to convey a story or message through creative, artistic or technical talents. As we are only asking for a limited number of projects, include more recent items and projects in which you were the driving force or had a leadership role. These can include class assignments, projects from jobs or internships, or your personal hobbies and freelance work.

Your resume should not contain the projects themselves. It is simply a written description of your projects.

Use this format to structure your resume:

Title: Title of the project (length of project if applicable)

Reason for creating/Date of creation: You may write “freelance” if it was something you did on your own.

Description of item: An in-depth description of the piece, the inspiration or objective, and your specific role in its creation. Also list any awards or special recognition you may have received for the piece.

Creative Resume example:

Articles for the School Newspaper

Journalism I class, 2022

I wrote several feature articles on various topics from the constant flooding of the men’s bathroom to vandalism on campus. I also did a film review for every issue. I helped with the layout of the paper as well as selecting the final photographs.

2. Visual Sample

A direct link to upload this requirement will appear on your Application Status page once the rest of the Creative Supplement has been submitted.

You are encouraged to use music and sound effects in your visual sample. Music may be copyrighted, but must be instrumental (no lyrics, orchestral pieces and sound effects encouraged).

Prompt

Without using dialogue, voice over or music with lyrics, create a film that is under two minutes and is about a character making a difficult decision. Show that the character is pulled in two different directions at an emotional level, visualize their process of consideration and show that they make a decision.

Showcase your 1st choice emphasis interest in your visual sample. For example, if you selected Production Design, we would like to see your production design skills shown throughout your two-minute film.

Please follow this prompt as it is written. Not following the prompt (for example: including dialogue or exceeding 2 minutes) could affect how this part of your application is reviewed. Each applicant is required to be the sole creator of their film and all creative supplement requirements.

3. Writing Sample

Prompt

In no more than 500 words, describe a transformational moment in your life that fundamentally changed you as a person. Explain how you gained wisdom and greater understanding of yourself as a result of this experience.

Formatting: Your story should be typed, single-spaced, 12 pt. Times New Roman font, one-inch margins on all sides.

If you select Directing as your emphasis, you must also submit the Capstone Essay below (both prompts must be submitted).

4. Capstone Essay (Directing Emphasis Only)  

All Directing students are required to direct a capstone project. In no more than 200 words, submit a synopsis for a short film (10–15 minutes in length). Your story should be original—not adapted from existing material—and should reflect a clear narrative arc with a beginning, middle, and end. Keep in mind that your film will be produced with limited time and budget, so consider stories that are achievable within those constraints.

Formatting: Your story should be typed, single-spaced, 12 pt. Times New Roman font, one-inch margins on all sides.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BA in Music program with a Music and Culture Emphasis:

• Pre-Screen Audition Video.
• Goal Statement.

1. Pre-Screen Audition Video

All applicants must submit a pre-screen audition video. All videos should include the following:

• Introduce yourself and briefly describe your performing experience.
• Briefly state why you want to attend Chapman University.
• Announce the title of your piece and the name of the composer before you begin your performance.
• Do not edit your video. Each piece must be continuous and unedited.
• Check your recording before uploading to make sure both audio and video are present.
• Instrumental audition video length is determined by the content requirements.
• Vocal audition video length should be no more than five to six minutes.

Specific video audition requirements for your chosen instrument or voice are found below.

• Brass auditions.
• Collaborative Piano auditions.
• Guitar auditions.
• Percussion auditions.
• Solo Piano auditions.
• Strings auditions.
• Vocal auditions.
• Woodwinds auditions.

2. Goal Statement

What do you hope to accomplish in the future—both personally and professionally—and how do you see your chosen major and Chapman’s programs helping you get there?

500 words or fewer.

Visit the Music and Culture emphasis page to learn more about the program.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BA in Music program with a Music Industry Studies Emphasis:

• Goal Statement.
• Creative Submission.

1. Goal Statement

Tell us why Music Industry Studies is the best fit for your goals and why Chapman is the place to pursue them.

2. Creative Submission

Choose one of the following and submit the requested materials.

Option 1: Performance Video

Upload a video of you performing on your main instrument or voice. You may perform any piece in any style, including classical, jazz, pop, musical theatre, or world music. Your video should be one to four minutes in length, one continuous take, no edits. Memorization is not required. State the title of the piece and the composer/artist before performing.

Option 2: Music Production/Music Technology

Upload both:

• A finished project, such as a song or audio production. The finished file should be submitted as a WAV, MP3, or similar format.
• A short DAW breakdown video (4 minutes maximum, one take, no edits) showing the original project. Explain your creative choices and keep it between 1 and 4 minutes.
  
  

Option 3: Film/Media Music

Upload both:

• A finished recording, MIDI mockup, or scored video. Include relevant materials, such as “deliverable” (WAV, MP3, MOV, MP4, or similar). Include “source project” materials (notated score, DAW session screenshots, or other source project used to create the music).
• A short video (4 minutes maximum, one take, no edits) explaining the project, your creative process, and how the music supports the scene or media.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BM in Performance program:

• Pre-Screen Audition Video.

1. Pre-Screen Audition Video

All applicants must submit a pre-screen audition video. All videos should include the following:

• Introduce yourself and briefly describe your performing experience.
• Briefly state why you want to attend Chapman University.
• Announce the title of your piece and the name of the composer before you begin your performance.
• Do not edit your video. Each piece must be continuous and unedited.
• Check your recording before uploading to make sure both audio and video are present.
• Instrumental audition video length is determined by the content requirements.
• Vocal audition video length should be no more than five to six minutes.

Specific video audition requirements for your chosen instrument or voice are found below.

• Brass auditions.
• Collaborative Piano auditions.
• Guitar auditions.
• Percussion auditions.
• Solo Piano auditions.
• Strings auditions.
• Vocal auditions.
• Woodwinds auditions.

Visit the BM in Performance webpage to learn more about the program.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the Pre-Music Education Certification BM program:

• Pre-Screen Audition Video.
• Research Paper or Scholarly Essay.
• Goal Statement.

1. Pre-Screen Audition Video

All applicants must submit a pre-screen audition video. All videos should include the following:

• Introduce yourself and briefly describe your performing experience.
• Briefly state why you want to attend Chapman University.
• Announce the title of your piece and the name of the composer before you begin your performance.
• Do not edit your video. Each piece must be continuous and unedited.
• Check your recording before uploading to make sure both audio and video are present.
• Instrumental audition video length is determined by the content requirements.
• Vocal audition video length should be no more than five to six minutes.

Specific video audition requirements for your chosen instrument or voice are found below.

• Brass auditions.
• Collaborative Piano auditions.
• Guitar auditions.
• Percussion auditions.
• Solo Piano auditions.
• Strings auditions.
• Vocal auditions.
• Woodwinds auditions.

2. Research Paper or Scholarly Essay

This document may come from a previous institution (high school or college) and can be in any subject area.

3. Goal Statement

Describe your long-term personal and professional goals and discuss how the degree program and area of study you wish to pursue at Chapman will help you meet those goals.

500 words or fewer.

Visit the BM (Pre-Music Education Certification) webpage to learn more about the program.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BA in Public Relations, Advertising and Entertainment Marketing program:

• Creative Resume.
• Major Requirement Essay.

1. Creative Resume

Provide a resume highlighting 5-7 pieces of your best creative projects (1 page maximum).

These projects should demonstrate your ability to convey a story or message through creative, artistic or technical talents. As we are only asking for a limited number of projects, include more recent items and projects in which you were the driving force or had a leadership role. These can include class assignments, projects from jobs or internships, or your personal hobbies and freelance work.

Your resume should not contain the projects themselves. It is simply a written description of your projects.

Use this format to structure your resume:

Title: Title of the project (length of project if applicable)

Reason for creating/Date of creation: You may write “freelance” if it was something you did on your own.

Description of item: An in-depth description of the piece, the inspiration or objective, and your specific role in its creation. Also list any awards or special recognition you may have received for the piece.

Creative Resume example:

Articles for the School Newspaper

Journalism I class, 2022

I wrote several feature articles on various topics from the constant flooding of the men’s bathroom to vandalism on campus. I also did a film review for every issue. I helped with the layout of the paper as well as selecting the final photographs.

2. Major Requirement Essay

Prompt

In no more than 2 pages, describe a public relations, advertising or film marketing campaign that was particularly successful in reaching its target audiences. Examine the overall goal or message of the campaign, how that message was delivered and whether the campaign was effective or not. Please cite supporting research or information that would support your conclusions.

Formatting

Your essay should be typed, single-spaced, 12 pt. Times New Roman font, one-inch margins on all sides. Remember to title your essay.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BFA in Screen Acting program:

• Theatre Resume.
• Goal Statement.
• Photograph.
• Pre-Screen Audition Videos.

1. Theatre Resume

Provide a resume highlighting your:

• Training.
• Teachers.
• Performance and technical experience.

Try to include:

• The names of theatres and directors you’ve worked with.
• Media work you’ve done.
• Awards/scholarships you’ve received.

2. Goal Statement

Submit a goal statement that answers these questions:

• How do you envision yourself contributing to the film industry and society as a student and artist?
• How will studying theatre at Chapman prepare you for a life in screen acting?

1,000 words or fewer.

3. Photograph

Upload a photograph of yourself in your Application Status Page. It doesn’t need to be a professional headshot.

4. Pre-screen Audition Videos

Upload your four audition videos to your Application Status Page. The four audition videos are your:

• Introduction: Slate (introduce) yourself and both monologues by speaking your name, each character’s name, each play’s title, and the name of each playwright. No longer than 30 seconds.

• First monologue: Perform a comedic monologue from any contemporary play. Use a 3/4 body shot. 60 seconds maximum.

• Second monologue: Perform a dramatic monologue from any contemporary play. Use a 3/4 body shot. 60 seconds maximum.

• Wildcard Video:Submit a video that showcases a special skill that tells us about who you are. The wild card section of your audition is an opportunity to showcase your special skill or talent and personality, so please, no additional monologues or poems. Examples may include hula-hooping, figure skating, playing an instrument, painting, rollerblading, sky diving, dancing, and surfing. (No more than 60 seconds)

Suggestions for Choosing a Monologue

• Choose a monologue from a published play. Film and television monologues are discouraged.
• Do not select a stand-alone monologue. Instead, choose a monologue from a play that provides context and character motivation.
• Choose a monologue with a character that is close to your age and that you think you could be cast as.
• Choose a monologue that is active. Know who you are talking to and what you want from them.
• Choose a monologue that you care about. Your engagement and interest will make your performance stronger.
• Avoid dialects, excessive prop use, cartoon or two-dimensional characters and exaggerated characterizations.
• Avoid overdone monologues (they often lead to predictable acting choices) unless you are able to make it uniquely your own. Try Googling “overdone monologues” to see what to avoid.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BA in Theatre program:

• Theatre Resume.
• Portfolio.
• Goal Statement.
• Photograph.
• Video Introduction and Slate.
• Monologue (Optional)

1. Theatre Resume

Provide a resume highlighting your:

• Training.
• Teachers.
• Performance and technical experience.

Try to include:

• The names of theatres and directors you’ve worked with.
• Media work you’ve done.
• Awards/scholarships you’ve received.

2. Portfolio

Upload a portfolio of 5–9 pieces that demonstrate your experience and skills in theatre. Your portfolio should include any projects that involve:

• Acting.
• Directing.
• Stage management.
• Technical work.
• Playwriting.
• Dramaturgy.
• Producing.
• Theatre scholarship.

For example, you can include notated scripts, original essays or scripts you have written, production images or videos, digital films, programs from shows you have worked on, pages from a prompt book or other rehearsal/production paperwork, and/or photographs.

3. Goal Statement

Submit a goal statement that answers these questions:

• How do you envision yourself contributing to theatre and to society as a student and artist?
• How will studying theatre at Chapman University prepare you for a life in theatre?

4. Photograph

Upload a photograph of yourself in your Application Status Page. It doesn’t need to be a professional headshot.

5. Video Introduction and Slate

Please slate (introduce) yourself and answer the following questions:

• Why are you passionate about theatre?
• What is one interest you have outside of theatre?

No longer than 60 seconds. Mobile device or cell phone videos are perfectly acceptable. You are encouraged to be authentic and heartfelt in answering the questions above.

6. Monologue (Optional)

Upload a 60-second monologue from a contemporary play of your choice. This step is optional for students who would like to further showcase their skills as part of their application portfolio.

Tips for Recording Your Monologue

• Please slate, introducing yourself and the monologue.
• Editing and zooming is discouraged, but you may walk into a closer shot if desired.
• Use a neutral background with suitable lighting and sound equipment. We need to see and hear you clearly.
• Please do not use costumes, stage makeup or extraneous sound effects.
• Use the "edit details" tab to label your monologue once you've uploaded it.
• Do not submit videos of actual performances as a monologue. They will not be viewed.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BFA in Theatre Performance program:

• Theatre Resume.
• Goal Statement.
• Photograph.
• Pre-Screen Audition Videos.

1. Theatre Resume

Provide a resume highlighting your:

• Training.
• Teachers.
• Performance and technical experience.

Try to include:

• The names of theatres and directors you’ve worked with.
• Media work you’ve done.
• Awards/scholarships you’ve received.

2. Goal Statement

Submit a goal statement that answers these questions:

• How do you envision yourself contributing to theatre and to society as a student and artist?
• How will studying theatre at Chapman University prepare you for a life in theatre?

3. Photograph

Upload a photograph of yourself in your Application Status Page. It doesn’t need to be a professional headshot.

4. Pre-screen Audition Videos

Upload your four audition videos to your Application Status Page. The four audition videos are your:

• Introduction: Slate (introduce) yourself and both monologues by speaking your name, each character’s name, each play’s title, and the name of each playwright. No longer than 30 seconds.

• First monologue: Perform a monologue from any contemporary play. Use a 3/4 body shot. 60 seconds maximum.

• Second monologue: Perform a monologue from any Shakespeare play. Use a 3/4 body shot. 60 seconds maximum.

• Wildcard Video:Submit a video that showcases a special skill that tells us about who you are. The wild card section of your audition is an opportunity to showcase your special skill or talent and personality, so please, no additional monologues or poems. Examples may include hula-hooping, figure skating, playing an instrument, painting, rollerblading, sky diving, dancing, and surfing. (No more than 60 seconds)

Suggestions for Choosing a Monologue

• Choose a monologue from a published play. Film and television monologues are discouraged.
• Do not select a stand-alone monologue. Instead, choose a monologue from a play that provides context and character motivation.
• Choose a monologue with a character that is close to your age and that you think you could be cast as.
• Choose a monologue that is active. Know who you are talking to and what you want from them.
• Choose a monologue that you care about. Your engagement and interest will make your performance stronger.
• Avoid dialects, excessive prop use, cartoon or two-dimensional characters and exaggerated characterizations.
• Avoid overdone monologues (they often lead to predictable acting choices) unless you are able to make it uniquely your own. Try Googling “overdone monologues” to see what to avoid.

The following items must be submitted as part of your Creative Supplement to be considered for admission to the BFA in Writing for Film and Television program:

• Creative Resume.
• Major Requirement: Short Story.

1. Creative Resume

Provide a resume highlighting 5-7 pieces of your best creative projects (1 page maximum).

These projects should demonstrate your ability to convey a story or message through creative, artistic or technical talents. As we are only asking for a limited number of projects, include more recent items and projects in which you were the driving force or had a leadership role. These can include class assignments, projects from jobs or internships, or your personal hobbies and freelance work.

Your resume should not contain the projects themselves. It is simply a written description of your projects.

Use this format to structure your resume:

Title: title of the project (length of project if applicable)

Reason for creating/Date of creation: You may write “freelance” if it was something you did on your own.

Description of item: An in-depth description of the piece, the inspiration or objective, and your specific role in its creation. Also list any awards or special recognition you may have received for the piece.

Creative Resume example:

Articles for the School Newspaper

Journalism I class, 2022

I wrote several feature articles on various topics from the constant flooding of the men’s bathroom to vandalism on campus. I also did a film review for every issue. I helped with the layout of the paper as well as selecting the final photographs.

2. Major Requirement: Short Story

Prompt

In no more than two (2) pages, write a compelling scene — comedic or dramatic, any genre — based on the prompt below:

Two people who are close experience a sudden calamity that changes their relationship.

Focus on developing and defining characters, building on the story and creating captivating dialogue. Do not use formal screenplay format. We are looking for strength in your storytelling ability.

Formatting

Do not use screenplay format. Please use short story format: typed, single-spaced, 12 pt Times New Roman font, one-inch margins on all sides, with one-line breaks between paragraphs.