In this module you will acquire and practice a range of fundamental musical theatre techniques and skills in dance, acting and singing. These will include classes and skills training in Ballet, Jazz, Commercial and Contemporary Dance, Tap, solo and ensemble singing, acting for Stage, Acting through Song and movement/choreography for Actors.

You will also learn about the emergence and development of musical theatre and research and study examples of innovative twentieth and twenty-first century practice.

Workshops will be specifically designed to support your practical training and indicative content may include: -
Anatomy & Physiology (Body and Voice),
Fitness, Wellbeing & Nutrition,
Self-Reflection and Goal Setting for the Musical Theatre Performer,
Performance Analysis,
Historical and Current Musical Theatre Repertoire.

[L.O. 2 &3] Assessment 1: Research task
An 800 word or 10-minute verbally presented research project on a negotiated and agreed area of musical theatre.

[L.O. 1, 4 & 5] Assessment 2: Practical etudes
Six ten-minute practical etudes to evidence and demonstrate the application of core musical theatre skills training in dance, drama and singing. The content and form of each etude will be negotiated and agreed by the student and module tutor. Five of the etudes will be examined during the Academy’s assignment week in February.

[L.O. 4] Assessment 3: Portfolio
A portfolio which will document the student’s skills development and training experienced throughout the module. This should also show an appropriate knowledge and understanding of the theories underpinning and supporting the training (equivalent of 2,000 words). The content may include class & lecture notes, warm-up plans, class-based tests, nutrition and fitness plans, personal development goals.

You will learn from actively engaging with timetabled classes in studio and classroom settings, developing and advancing fundamental performance skills and actively exploring a variety of relevant strategies to develop, inform and sustain this intensive practice. You will be required to continually reflect upon your personal skills development and identify areas for improvement. Your learning will be supported by frequent feedback from tutors and peers, as well as your own reflective practice.

1.Acquire a range of key physical, vocal and performative skills specific to musical theatre performance. Learning

2. Gain an informed knowledge and understanding of the history and development of musical theatre production in both Western and non-western contexts. Knowledge and Understanding

3. Research and evaluate the impact of experimental and innovative musical theatre practitioners. Enquiry, Analysis

4. Organise and realise a series of individual and group etudes drawn from a variety of performance disciplines, genres and styles. Application

5. Demonstrate an understanding of the basic principles of anatomy, physiology and voice. Knowledge and Understanding

Rehearsal Studio
CD / USB / iPod Speakers
Internet and IT Access
Digital Library
Licenced rehearsal material

Callery, D. (2015) The Active Text: Unlocking plays through physical theatre. Nick Hern Books.

Dart Harris, D. (2016) Beginning Musical Theatre Dance. Human Kinetics.

Deer, J. and Dal Vera, R. (2015) Acting in Musical Theatre: A Comprehensive Course: Routledge

Franklin, E. (2021) Dynamic Alignment Through Imagery. Human Kinetics.

Haas, J. G. (2018) Dance Anatomy, 2nd Edition. Human Kinetics.

Harvard P. (2013) Acting Through Song - Technical Exercises for Musical Theatre Actors: Nick Hern Books

King, A. (2019) The Dancers’ Study Guide. Faria Publishing Ltd.

Marsden, R. (2022) Inside the Rehearsal Room. Methuen.

Merlin B. (2007) The Complete Stanislavski Toolkit: Nick Hern Books

Roche, J. and Burridge, S. (2022) Choreography: The Basics. Routledge.

Sabo, L. (2020) Musical Theatre Choreography: Reflection of My Artistic Process for Staging Musicals. Farnham Academy Press.

Seven Allen G. (2019) The Singer Acts/ The Actor Sings: A Practical Workbook: Methuen Drama.

See module handbook for a further recommended reading.

Want to develop performance skills in a fun, fast and focused environment? This module allows to do just that. Through dynamic classes in dance, acting and singing, our amazing team of industry professionals and experienced lecturers will support you to further develop your existing skills and encourage you to reach your real potential. You will also learn about the emergence and development of musical theatre from a variety of Western Non-Western contexts.