Is AADA a joke?

Question:i've heard mixed reviews.

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: i've heard mixed reviews.

If you mean AMDA, then yes, it is a joke. AMDA, the American Musical & Dramatic Academy, is often referred to as SCAMDA, because students don't really come out as better artists. The training is so poor that it's a crime that it's accredited. The training is very basic... along the lines of, "At an audition, you should look up at your casting director and speak with confidence. Let's practice." The vocal training is against anything any decent vocal coach would teach you. The acting lessons only make you more a confident speaker, not better performer.

Often times, if casting directors see AMDA on your resume, they will put your resume in the "no" pile because it's known throughout the industry as a joke.

The most "successful" AMDA grads have gone on to regional tours of shows. I don't know of any who are "names" on Broadway, but I could be mistaken.

I have not gone to AMDA (nor have I ever had the desire to go) but I am familiar because of my friends who go. These friends chose AMDA because
1.) it's easy to get into. Basically, if you can fill out the application form and pay the tuition, you get in,
2.) it's a two year program, so you get out sooner and are able to go out into the world of performing without "wasting" 4 years at NYU, Fordham, Marymount Manhattan, etc taking certain required academic classes.

If you don't want to go to an NYU, Fordham, Marymount Manhattan type of school, then don't go to school at all. Take the time off to take vocal, dance, and acting lessons, which are readily available in NY and spend the rest of the time earning money and auditioning. It's a much better experience than at AMDA.

Now, if you meant "AADA," I don't know what AADA is.

Yep. It is a bureaucracy living on its past glories. AMDA, on the other hand, has a great 2 year studio acting program. All professional schools including these two are 'way over priced for what you get. I know a better way to prepare to be an actor.