Doran Berger, '20

Hometown:
Armada, MI

Anticipated Grad year:
2020

Major: 
BFA in Musical Theatre

What do you plan to do after graduation:
Move to either New York or Los Angeles to pursue a career in performance.

Extracurricular Activities:
I have been in a Main Stage Production here at Oakland University every semester for four years. And over the summer, I worked at the Young People’s Theater helping to train young artists. I also performed in a production of Spring Awakening at Exit Left Theatre in Holland, MI.

What is the best thing about OU?
These past four years have been the best of my entire life. I have learned so and The School of Music, Theatre, and Dance like my family. I have worked with students and faculty from each department and I have cherished memories from each.

The best part about studying here is that these experiences also teach you the skills you need in order to fulfill your goals and dreams. I have the deepest love and gratitude for the SMTD for collaborating with me to create and refine my craft and give me the tools I need to succeed after graduation. 

How have OU donors impacted you?
Recently our organization “Actors and Techies” attended the American College Theatre Festival in Madison, WI. With the aid of donors, were all able to perform, experience different works of theatre, and attend master classes and workshops on our craft to help us grow as young artists. Without the help of donors, we would not have been able to attend this wonderful festival. Due to their support we are able to keep growing and creating as a department and community.

Why did you choose OU?
It was one of the only audition experiences where I felt a sense of community and acceptance from the faculty. I could feel the passion and kindness that they all have. Also, looking at the curriculum, here at Oakland you are able to really make your degree specific to you. For instance, I am very interested in film, so I was able to take “Acting for the Camera” to gain knowledge on this aspect of the craft. I am also very interested in knowing all of the different roles in a theatre production so that I have a better appreciation for the process, and I was able to take an independent study class with David Gram in which I explored what the role of a director is in the production of a show. I was also able to take a closer look at this role particularly in the realm of Musical Theatre and how that changes.

What do you love most about your major?
Being able to wake up every morning and be doing what I love, with people that I love, in a safe, accepting, and passionate environment.