3 Year Musical Theatre - Curriculum
SKILLS
Dance
Dance is an integral part of musical theatre. We aim to develop the student’s competence, understanding and confidence in jazz, ballet, tap, contemporary, pas de deux; to give an understanding of the theory and history of dance and to develop an understanding of the human body so that they can express themselves freely and avoid injury.
Singing
A vital and unique feature of the Musical Theatre programme is the provision of one-to-one singing and repertoire lessons. Weekly singing lessons ensure that the students can produce a well placed, consistent sound throughout the vocal range without a noticeable break between registers. Weekly repertoire lessons provide a varied collection of songs from the musical theatre repertoire and contemporary style.
Acting
The acting classes help students to perform in a convincing way by developing their imagination, concentration and observation; to control movement, speech and voice in performance; to work effectively and in a disciplined way as a member of a team; developing confidence in using a range of acting styles and techniques and also understanding of theatrical texts. The classes in acting technique take place 3 times per week and will develop student’s acting skills to their full potential.
PROFESSIONAL PREPARATION
Performance
The third year of the course is a production year in which students will gain extensive experience of performing in public, this involves taking part in three productions of fully staged musicals with full sets, costumes, lighting, sound and musical accompaniment. Students will work in the School’s two professionally staffed theatres with professional directors, choreographers, designers and musicians, as well as professional stage managers and wardrobe staff.
In addition, they will take part in a Graduation Showcase at a West End theatre before an invited audience of agents, directors, producers and choreographers.
As a preparation for their final year, first and second year students work on a series of projects, which are presented before an audience of Course Tutors and students, at the end of each term. This will give the opportunity to put into practice the techniques learned and to develop their ability to combine the three disciplines of singing, dance and acting.
Assessment
Monitoring of students’ progress is continuous. They receive verbal reports, from each of the subject tutors, twice a year – in February and July. In addition, Year Head, Heads of Department and the Course Director comment on their progress.
Students are assessed on all productions and projects. Dance, Drama and Singing assessments take place at the end of the Summer Term. Verbal feedback is given after these assessments.
Professional Employment Skills
The careers masterclasses, in the second and third years, cover everything the student requires to know about how the industry operates. There are workshops with performers, agents, casting directors, Tax specialists, Equity and Spotlight representatives. Students receive help on the preparation of their CV and photographs. The audition class with guest directors and choreographers prepares the student for the realities of the audition process in the professional theatre.
Contextual Studies
Students need to understand the background to musical theatre in order to become an informed and articulate performer. Modules in the first and second year introduce them to the work of the major composers, librettists, dramatists, choreographers and directors working in the field.
