MUSICAL THEATRE
the ultimate art form

Singing In Musical Theatre

There are quite a few areas of mastery required to be an effective Musical Theatre Singer / Performer. One of the main areas is a deep understanding of the lyric and how this moment fits into a larger narrative. Outside of the show, you are free to change the interpretation of the moment, however, it is crucial that you know the original intent to fully grasp all of the awesomeness contained in that lyric and theatrical moment in time.

Acting Vs. Emoting

How you perform the song needs a real sense of acting, not just an emotional flood. You’ll want to practice the song as a monologue, because after all, “a song is just a monologue with notes.” – Jonelle Allen. If practiced in this way, you will avoid the trap of letting the musical rhythm dictate your understanding of the text and find deeper meaning in sustained phrases.

The Moment Before

One of the best ways to create a solid performance is the moment before you begin. Whether it’s the intro to the song or the moment before you start your monologue.

Singing
Vocal Technique
Developing a strong, healthy singing technique.
Vocal Warm-ups
Preparing the voice for performance.
Sight-Singing
Reading and singing music on sight.
Breath Control
Managing breath to support singing and acting.
Harmony
Singing in harmony with others.
Vocal Health
Maintaining vocal health and endurance.
Pitch and Tone
Mastering pitch accuracy and tonal quality.
Musical Interpretation
Bringing personal interpretation to the music.
Microphone Technique
Using a microphone effectively during performances.
Dynamics and Expression
Using volume and emotional expression effectively.

Acting
Character Analysis
Understanding the character’s backstory, motivations, and evolution.
Script Analysis
Interpreting the script to find depth in the character’s journey.
Reacting
Responding to other actors in a believable manner.
Emotional Authenticity
Bringing genuine emotions to the performance.
Voice Projection
Ensuring the voice carries throughout the venue.
Motivation and Objectives
Understanding what the character wants in each scene.
Stage Presence
Commanding attention through confidence and energy.
Physicality and Movement
Using body language and movement to convey character.
Diction and Articulation
Ensuring clarity of speech.
Improvisation
Adapting and reacting in the moment to onstage dynamics.

Dance and Movement

Technical Aspects

Theory and History
Basic Dance Techniques
Understanding fundamental dance moves.
Stagecraft
Understanding the technical aspects of theater production.
Musical Theater History
Studying the evolution of musical theater.
Choreography Memorization
Learning and retaining complex choreography.
Lighting
Knowing how lighting affects a performance.
Musical Genres and Styles
Understanding different musical styles within theater.
Expressive Movement
Conveying emotions and character through movement.
Sound Design
Understanding the impact of sound in theater.
Script and Song Analysis
Analyzing scripts and songs for deeper meaning.
Spatial Awareness
Navigating the stage effectively.
Set Design
Appreciating the role of the set in storytelling.
Theatrical Traditions
Learning about different traditions in theater production.
Dance Styles
Exploring various dance styles used in musical theater.
Costume and Makeup
Using costumes and makeup to enhance character.
Iconic Plays and Musicals
Studying significant works in musical theater.

Performance Skills

Personal Development

Collaboration
Audition Techniques
Preparing for and excelling in auditions.
Confidence Building
Building self-esteem and confidence for performances.
Directing
Understanding the director’s role and vision.
Role Preparation
Researching and preparing for a role.
Stress Management
Handling nerves and performance anxiety.
Production Collaboration
Working with the production team (sound, lighting, stage crew).
Ensemble Work
Working effectively within a group.
Professionalism
Conducting oneself professionally in all aspects of theater.
Musical Direction
Collaborating with musical directors and conductors.
Solo Performance
Mastering solo performances.
Feedback Reception
Accepting and learning from feedback.
Choreographer Collaboration
Working with choreographers to achieve the vision.
Stage Etiquette
Understanding the dos and don’ts of being on stage.
Continuous Learning
Committing to ongoing improvement and learning.
Cast Dynamics
Building positive relationships within the cast.