#PittsburghMe: Meet Frankie Seratch, Musical Theatre Major

Meet Frankie Seratch

Major/Program: Musical Theatre
Graduation: April 2021
Scholarships: Artistic and Academic
Hometown: Hazleton, Pa.
High School: Hazleton Area Academy of Science
Dream Job: Innovative creator

"I chose Point Park because of its extremely rigorous musical theatre program, the prime location and the immersive, artistic environment. Point Park has one of the most refined musical theatre programs in the country."

Frankie Seratch

Why did you choose Point Park?

I chose Point Park because of its extremely rigorous musical theatre program, the prime location and the immersive, artistic environment. Point Park has one of the most refined musical theatre programs in the country. I sought a well-rounded program and I knew Point Park provided that from the moment I stepped foot on campus and was instantly immersed in all aspects of the industry. I also chose Point Park because it establishes artists who are prepared for the real world. The campus does not shelter you from living in a city atmosphere, nor does the training shy away from giving you the tools to tackle the reality of making this journey your career.

How are you involved on campus?

Point Park has given me the space to support student art, as well as perform among my peers. Whether it’s a dance, theatre or cinema production, I try my hardest to attend and always leave more inspired. I have been involved in several shows, both on the crew side learning the technical aspects of production and on stage, executing the technique I learn every day. I also take advantage of the events and discounts offered by Point Park like seeing shows at the Benedum Center, exploring Pittsburgh with the Honors Program and taking trips to museums. Point Park is in the heart of Downtown Pittsburgh and it’s extremely difficult to pass on all of the incredible opportunities.

**You’re producing an original musical titled Man Made. Tell us about that process.**

Man Made is a piece I hold dear to my heart. Although still in process, Point Park’s Pinnacle Productions has allowed me to put on a first reading, which was the very first showing of my original works. The inspiration for the show came to me in my voice and speech class with John McManus. The idea had sparked, but it wasn’t until the following year that I decided I would construct a short draft to see how it would read as a musical. I partnered with Jacob Randall Holmes, a student at Carnegie Mellon University, and we have been collaborating ever since! I am eternally grateful to have a school that supports student work and to have a space to nurture and experiment with new works in process.

Tell us about your experiences working professionally.

I think performing professionally so young has made me grow up quickly. I cherish my experiences working with the professionals around me. They taught me about my craft, work ethic, to interpret how I choose to be an artist and the importance of being asked back again to a job. The people I worked with showed me how beautiful the adult world would be if you work hard and surround yourself with positive influences.

What inspires you as an actor?

Seeing art that shares a message, getting to know others, observing the world around me and just being in college inspires me as an actor and as a human being! My whole perspective of who I want to be in this world has changed. I stay open-minded, listen and find passion in life. I find inspiration in every beautiful flaw and every discovery I make.

What advice would you give to incoming freshmen?

Point Park welcomes you and you are meant to be here. Take advantage of the incredible school, faculty and facilities. Surround yourself with the driven and genuine students, immerse yourself in the beautiful, artistic city and most importantly, allow yourself to learn endlessly. Live in the moment and know this school will help you get where you have always been destined to go.

#PittsburghMe: Meet Frankie Seratch, Musical Theatre Major Student Profile