Alumni Profile: Jordan Grubb, B.F.A. in musical theatre Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Meet Jordan Grubb
Major and degree earned: B.F.A. in musical theatre
Graduation year: 2008
Current role: National tour of Mary Poppins
Hometown: Easton, Pa.
Now living in: New York City
Why did you choose Point Park University?
I wanted to attend a performing arts program that would nurture and develop who I was rather than turn me into a cookie-cutter performer. From my first visit, I knew Point Park was a school that embraced individuality.
How did Point Park University help you prepare for your career?
I was given many performance opportunities. Through Point Park, I was given the chance to be in various conservatory shows and cabarets, participate in workshops and readings with Broadway talent, learn behind-the-scenes work in stage management and stagecraft, perform in a dance company, audition for feature films, work at a professional regional theatre (Pittsburgh Public Theatre), and perform in the New York and Los Angeles showcase for industry personnel. Essentially, I was able to explore every facet of myself as an artist. When I moved to New York, I felt confident, knowing that the vast experience I received in my four years at school would come in handy.
What was the most beneficial experience at Point Park University?
The theatre showcase gave me the best chance to make a smooth transition into the next phase in my career. I signed with my first agent out of the showcase, and had appointments for Broadway auditions within a few days of moving to New York. I couldn't have asked for a better situation to begin my time here, and I have Point Park to thank for that.
What was your favorite memory from Point Park?
I would have to say our student cabarets. Every few weeks, the student body organizes and puts on a show like nothing you've seen. It's a chance to take a breather from the everyday pressure of classes, shows and auditioning. Most of the time I would be laughing from some of the ridiculous sketches, but the cabarets also lent an outlet for various talents. One minute you would have someone playing a song they composed, and the next, a guy tap dancing on stage (i.e., me!).
What advice do you have for today's students?
At the end of the day, you always need to know who you are as a talent and stick to that. There are always going to be people telling you what you can and cannot do, but only you know what you're fully capable of. I think it's important to be a well-rounded artist, but all of us have specific talents that make us stand out from the crowd. Embrace those talents, and never be ashamed to walk into a room and know you're good. Confidence is half the battle.
More About: Theatre Alumni, alumni, theatre, success story, Conservatory Alumni