TCU’s theatre program is known nationally for being very selective; most of the 16 to 20 incoming BFA students each year are recruited through national auditions, and the overall acceptance rate is less than 7 percent. Every theatre student who comes through the program has the talent to succeed as a professional performer.

Moderator Harry Parker ’80, professor of theatre, interviewed John Devereaux ’12, Jackie Raye ’16 and Alison Whitehurst ’12 about how a TCU education led to professional theatre success.

Question for all panelists: Where do you currently live and what production are you currently working on? 

Question for all panelists: How did you get the role of a performing with a big national tour? 

Question for Alison Whitehurst: What was it like playing the same principal role every night, and what did you love about your character? 

Question for all panelists: How long were you playing your respective roles and how many performances? 

Question for Jackie Raye and John Devereaux: As current understudies for leads in your show, what’s your favorite role to cover and how do you stay prepared? 

Question for all panelists: How was life on the road while touring and what do you tell yourself when you are having an off night and don’t want to perform?

Question for John Devereaux: You have a side business making candles to keep you busy on the road, where can we find your products? 

Question for Alison Whitehurst: What was a moment at TCU that had a great impact on you? 

Question for all panelists: What was the biggest thing you had to learn after TCU that you wish you’d known at graduation?