CAP: The College Audition Program
Unlock Your Dream College with CAP
Transform Your College Dreams into Reality
A structured plan, expert coaching, and real audition reps—so you walk into auditions with material that feels like you, and the confidence to deliver it.
A Comprehensive, Supported Journey
Comprehensive Journey
Starting in September and culminating in a fully supported Unifieds experience for seniors attending, CAP guides students through school/program identification, material selection, audition coaching, prescreen planning, and final decisions.
Affordability & Access
We believe in accessibility and offer the program at a fraction of the cost of similar services. Monthly payment plans and limited financial aid may be available.
Expert Guidance
Students receive audition-specific coaching, assessments, mock dance audition experience, and practical strategy throughout the process.
Long-Term Impact
CAP isn’t just about getting into programs—students build communication, time management, confidence, and artistic identity they can use in every audition that follows.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
CAP (College Audition Program) is an intensive, multi-month initiative designed to prepare students for the college audition process in Musical Theatre and/or Acting. CAP provides a structured environment for students at various stages of their audition journey. CAP is designed to build confidence, reduce stress, and ensure students are fully prepared for the rigorous college audition process.
Yes, it’s called the College Audition Program but the skills you learn are applicable for any audition setting and beyond!
We offer 2 packages to meet you wherever your needs are, plus add-on application support.
- Assessment and material selection
- 2 contrasting songs
- 2 contrasting monologues (one classical)
- Dance prescreen combo
- Acting majors often build 3–4 monologues.
- In-person and virtual Sessions
- Mock auditions (observe + participate as appropriate)
- CAPbaret performance
- Exclusive Q&A sessions (faculty + students/alumni)
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- Assessment and material selection
- 2 contrasting songs
- 1 pop/rock selection
- 2 contrasting monologues (one classical)
- Dance prescreen combo
- Ballet prescreen combo
- Acting majors often build 4 total monologues.
- Prescreen prep & filming
- Editing & submission-ready files (labeled + organized)
- Final Unifieds prep & coaching
- Chicago Unifieds chaperone & on-site support
- In-person and virtual Sessions
- Mock auditions (observe + participate as appropriate)
- CAPbaret performance
- Exclusive Q&A sessions (faculty + students/alumni)
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This package offers invaluable guidance and comprehensive support, maximizing your chances of success at Chicago Unifieds.
- Focused Coaching: Essential, last-minute prep to fine-tune your audition material before heading to Chicago.
- Chaperone Services: We handle your travel needs and act as your guardian, ensuring a smooth and stress-free trip.
- On-Site Support: Expert help to manage your audition schedule, on-the-spot coaching, and a built-in peer support group to keep you motivated and focused.
Add-on Application support not available for this offering.
TUITION: $650
Start Junior Year. Stress Less Senior Year.
Foundations Track is designed for juniors to explore and build. Audition Track is designed for seniors to execute the full audition year. Starting earlier consistently leads to stronger material and a smoother audition season.
Junior Year — Foundations Track
Build your audition book, learn the process, and get reps through mock auditions and CAPbaret.
Early Fall
Refine your list, tighten cuts, and map requirements with less pressure.
Senior Year — Audition Track
Prescreens, polish, strategy, and full audition-year execution (including Unifieds support for seniors attending).
What People Are Saying
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I got into my dream school — CCM — and CAP made it possible. They took the time to find material that brought out the best in me, and that made all the difference in my audition. CAP doesn’t just prepare you; they set you up to shine.
— Donelvan Thigpen (2014)
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I learned so much at CAP; I not only felt prepared for my college auditions, I felt my confidence grow as an artist and performer! I even received an offer from my dream school in the audition room!
— Elliott Richards (2026)
WHERE STUDENTS HAVE BEEN ACCEPTED!
Schedule
Times may vary. Coachings/Sessions are typically 6:30–9:30pm.
Parent Meeting, Assessments, Material Selection, Prep Sessions
August 21–24 and/or August 28–30
Coachings / Sessions
Sunday, Sept 6
Sunday, Sept 13
Sunday, Sept 20
Sunday, Sept 27
Friday, Oct 2
Sunday, Oct 4
Sunday, Oct 11
Prescreen Filming (to be scheduled)
Saturday, Oct 17 & Sunday, Oct 18
Saturday, Oct 24 & Sunday, Oct 25
Mock Auditions
Sunday, Dec 6
CAPbaret Rehearsal
Tuesday, Dec 15
CAPbaret Performance
Wednesday, Dec 16
Unifieds
Feb 2 – Feb 5
What You’ll Walk Away With
No matter your CAP path, the goal is not just to “get through” a season—it’s to build long-term tools.
Secure Your Spot Today!
Don’t wait—CAP spots are limited, and the audition season is fast approaching. Imagine receiving your acceptance letter to a prestigious performing arts program. CAP makes this possible by equipping you with the tools, confidence, and professional support needed to excel in your auditions.
Take control of your future and ensure you're ready to shine.
Expert Instructors
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Ginger Morris
PROGRAM DIRECTOR | ACTING
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Adam Roberts
PROGRAM DIRECTOR | VOICE
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Sara Burke
DANCE
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Donelvan Thigpen
ACTING
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Coy Branscum
ACTING
Learn from the best! Program directors Ginger Morris and Adam Roberts, alongside renowned choreographer Sara Burke, bring over 40 years of combined experience in training students for successful college auditions. Plus, get access to masterclasses and guest lectures from a diverse group of working industry professionals.
Guest Artists
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David Valdes
ACTING
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Rachael Koske
ACTING
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Michael McKelvey
Carnegie Mellon Faculty | CONSULTANT
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Noah Wood
DANCE
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Marita Stryker
VOICE
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Peyton Calhoon
PRESCREEN CONSULTANT
ACCESSIBILITY
Payment Plans & Financial Aid
We know the college audition process can be a significant investment—for time and for finances. Impact Arts is committed to making CAP as accessible as possible.
If you’re not sure what support you need, reach out—CAP can be customized with add-ons.
Impact Arts is committed to providing access to quality arts education for all individuals, regardless of financial circumstances. We believe in the power of the arts to transform lives and are pleased to announce that financial aid opportunities are available for anyone interested in participating in our program.
We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply for financial aid, as we strive to create an inclusive and accessible artistic community.
At Impact Arts, we are dedicated to ensuring that cost is not a barrier to the pursuit of creative passions, and we welcome all applicants to explore the transformative experience that College Audition Program has to offer.
To apply for financial aid, you must complete and submit the following info. All documents must be uploaded to the application.
CAP provides aid on a first-come, first-serve basis (dependent on eligibility.)
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• Completion of all application fields including essay questions.
• A copy of your most recent tax return(s).
• A resume of any and all theatre, music, writing, and/or film experience from educational to professional.
• One reference letter from a teacher or professional artist who is familiar with your work. They should speak of past experiences or achievements as well as potential for further growth.
• A link to your video/portfolio submission. Please upload video that shows your current performance level. You may include singing, acting, and/or dancing and they may be filmed as an audition or edited from performance footage.
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Financial Aid is awarded without discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, ethnic origin, religion, sex, disability or sexual orientation.
The total amount of Financial Aid as well as the distribution of financial aid will be based upon determination of financial need and of potential talent determined by application, interview and/or audition as identified by the Director of the Texas Arts Project consistent with the projected availability of funds.
The cost of tuition does not include transportation to and from the camp and personal expenses, therefore these fees would not be covered through financial assistance. Texas Arts Project can only reward up to 50% tuition to qualified applicants.
All Financial Aid is awarded on an annual basis. Most will be awarded 1 month prior to the commencement date for each College Audition Program session.
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Financial Aid is subject to the availability of funds and an open position in the CAP session; and Financial Aid awarded for any given session is valid for that session only.
ALL FINANCIAL AID is terminal and therefore ALL FINANCIAL AID RECIPIENTS must reapply each year.
All applications for financial assistance will be considered on a first application submitted basis.
ALL FINANCIAL AID may be subject to cancellation at any time at the direction of the Texas Arts Project Director based on but not necessarily limited to poor performance, poor class/rehearsal attendance, disruptive behavioral problems, and lack of demonstrated motivation.
All Financial Aid recipients must certify that the financial information submitted in the application is true and correct to their best belief; and furthermore, that if any substantial financial change occurs that might impact their eligibility for their assistance, that they will promptly notify the CAP Director of such changes.
FAQ
Click a question to expand the answer.
What program am I eligible for?
High School Freshmen, Sophomores, and Juniors are eligible for the “PREP TRACK”. They do not participate in pre-screen filming, mock auditions, or Unifieds.
High School Seniors or Post-High School Students may choose either the full “AUDITION TRACK” or the “UNIFIEDS CHAPERONE & SUPPORT ONLY”.
What if I need more one-on-one support?
We have additional add-on services for CAP participants for any and all necessary private coachings.
What costs are not included in the program?
- College Application fees
- Flight, hotel, ground transportation, and food for Chicago Unifieds
- Audition clothing
- Transportation to/from in-person rehearsals
- Add-on support (not mandatory)
Where are rehearsals held?
We will have cohort and private coachings mostly virtually. Most in-person rehearsals will be held at ZACH North. All specific time scheduling and locations will be sent after enrollment.
What do the payment plans look like?
Tuition: Foundations Track = $1,550 • Audition Track = $2,350
We offer three payment options:
- Pay in Full
- Deposit (25%) + 3 installments (Oct 15, 2026 • Nov 14, 2026 • Dec 15, 2026)
- Deposit (25%) + 4 installments (Oct 15, 2026 • Nov 14, 2026 • Dec 15, 2026 • Jan 15, 2027)
Deposit is always 25% of full tuition: Foundations = $387.50 • Audition = $587.50
Deposit + 3 installments
| Due Date | Foundations Track | Audition Track |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit (25%) — due at enrollment | $387.50 | $587.50 |
| Oct 15, 2026 | $387.50 | $587.50 |
| Nov 14, 2026 | $387.50 | $587.50 |
| Dec 15, 2026 | $387.50 | $587.50 |
Deposit + 4 installments
| Due Date | Foundations Track | Audition Track |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit (25%) — due at enrollment | $387.50 | $587.50 |
| Oct 15, 2026 | $290.63 | $440.63 |
| Nov 14, 2026 | $290.63 | $440.63 |
| Dec 15, 2026 | $290.63 | $440.63 |
| Jan 15, 2027 | $290.61 | $440.61 |
Installments are split as evenly as possible; the final payment may differ by a few cents due to rounding.
Unifieds travel note (Audition Track only): Hotel/flight (for students traveling solely with CAP staff to Unifieds) will be invoiced closer to Unifieds.
Pay-in-full is also available if you prefer to pay tuition in one payment.
What are “mock auditions” and “CAPbaret”?
CAP Mock Auditions are a simulation of the college audition process. This is for the “audition track” students to get hands-on experience of what the Chicago Unifieds process will be like. “Judges/Adjudicators” will represent schools.
CAPbaret will be an in-person performance to showcase the CAP student’s hard work before they are sent off to auditions.
What are “Unifieds”?
Unified Auditions (commonly referred to as Unifieds) are a series of college auditions held in major cities across the country, where students can audition for multiple musical theatre and acting programs at once. This streamlined process allows students to audition for numerous schools over the course of a few days, saving time and travel costs.
Key features of Unifieds:
- Locations: Typically held in Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles. CAP takes students to the Chicago Unified Auditions February 2–5, 2026.
- Participating Schools: Hundreds of schools participate, offering both BFA and BA programs in Acting and Musical Theatre.
- Format: Auditions include a combination of monologues, songs, and dance calls depending on the program.
- Pre-Screens: Some schools require students to pass a pre-screen process to attend Unifieds.
Unifieds offer a convenient way to showcase your talent to multiple top-tier programs in one go.
When is the best time to join CAP?
The sweet spot is junior year. Foundations Track gives you time to explore and understand the process while stakes are lower.
Audition Track builds on that foundation with prescreens, Unifieds prep/support (for seniors attending), and senior-year execution.
If you’re a senior now, it’s not too late—but if you’re a sophomore or junior, starting earlier makes everything easier.
What if I’m auditioning for Acting Programs, not Musical Theatre?
CAP supports students auditioning for both Acting and Musical Theatre programs.
Acting-focused students build a stronger monologue portfolio (often 3–4 pieces) and adapt the plan to match school requirements.
Do I have to be planning to major in acting or musical theatre?
No. CAP is built around the college audition calendar, but the skills apply to any audition setting.
You’ll build usable material, gain on-camera and in-room reps, and leave with tools you can use beyond college auditions.
