Musical Theatre Alumnus Austin Schulte '22 Makes Broadway Debut in "Elf: The Musical" Alumni Profile
Meet Austin Schulte '22
- Job Title & Employer
- Swing, "Elf: The Musical"
- Major/Program
- Musical Theatre
- Minor
- Dance and Applied Music
- Hometown
- Huntington Beach, Calif.
- High School
- Huntington Beach High School
- Now Living In
- New York City
- Hobbies & Interests
- Video games, cooking, plants, reading
"I would not be the person and performer I am today without the professors I worked with at Point Park. They are in every work I create and their impact on my life cannot be understated ... Special moments like my Broadway debut are as much for them as they are for me."
Why did you pursue a B.F.A. in musical theatre from Point Park University?
I chose Point Park's musical theatre program for a variety of reasons: I wanted a strong dance program with my theatre degree, I received a scholarship and my audition at National Unified Auditions in Chicago with Zeva Barzell, director of musical theatre, was nothing short of magical (I've had the opportunity to teach the dance call in Chicago for the last two years, which has been a full-circle moment).
What was it like training in the University’s Pittsburgh Playhouse?
We were the first students to take classes and perform in the new Playhouse when it moved from Oakland to Downtown Pittsburgh, so it was a big deal as a freshman. I remember touring the campus and thinking that it was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. Most of my favorite college memories stem from the classes I had at the Playhouse; it is such a special space to use.
How did your college experience prepare you for the industry?
My college experience was key to preparing me to go into this industry. The most direct connection is one of the casting directors who worked with us in Senior Showcase is one of the casting directors for "Elf: The Musical." Aside from professional connections, my professors and classes at Point Park taught me that I have a lot to offer as an artist with my unique point of view, and not just a body that can sing and dance. That gave me the confidence to walk into professional rooms knowing that I have something special to add.
Highlight career opportunities you've had since graduating from Point Park.
The summer after I graduated, I worked my first union contract down the street with Pittsburgh CLO. Since then, I've been lucky enough to be a part of five shows there. It has been really special to work in the city where I went to college and make new memories there as a professional. It was there that I worked with some of my heroes like Donna McKechnie and Baayork Lee. Getting to call these legends, who have inspired the entire industry, my coworkers was a huge "pinch-me" moment.
Tell us all about your Broadway debut in "Elf: The Musical."
It feels surreal to say that I am making my Broadway debut. Every day, I get emotional because this was my childhood dream, and now it is my reality.
I am a swing for "Elf," which means I cover the six ensemble boys in the show, and if any of them go out, or go on for any principal tracks they cover, I go on in their track. It is a huge job, and it has taught me so much. It’s the kind of challenge that pushes you to be better.
I always heard swinging was one of the hardest jobs on Broadway, and now I know they weren't kidding; it is also such an amazing and rewarding thing to get experience doing, and I am so grateful to this company for their support and faith in me.
What’s it like living in New York City? Did your college experience in Pittsburgh prepare you for that transition?
I love living in New York City. Another childhood dream of mine has come true, but also after a year here, I can't imagine being anywhere else.
Pittsburgh was my first taste of city life, and it helped me transition into living on my own and taught me how to navigate an urban environment. It also set me up with such an incredible community of people here in New York. It’s been such a luxury to have people I went to school with, and the large network of welcoming alumni, here in the city to lean on. During my first year here, I worked in catering with former classmates, and if I was ever feeling down, showing up to a shift and seeing a friendly face from school made everything easier.
What advice do you have for a student auditioning and interviewing for Point Park’s Conservatory of Performing Arts?
I have so much respect and admiration for people who decide to study performing arts. It is a brave and noble thing to bet on yourself and follow your dreams, especially pursuing something beautiful like art.
In terms of advice, remember to share the love you have for performing. You wouldn't be standing in front of audition panels if you didn’t love doing this, so I hope amidst the nerves you can also connect with the excitement you have to share your craft and creative vision. A student who carries joy through their work can have a more relaxed presentation and come across as a student who would be excited to work in class. That is just as important as being talented, as plenty of talented students are out there.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I would not be the person and performer I am today without the professors I worked with at Point Park. They are in every work I create and their impact on my life cannot be understated. I am so fortunate to remain in contact with them and hope to be for years to come. Special moments like my Broadway debut are as much for them as they are for me.
Photos by Andy Henderson