This is my presentation

1. A guide to becoming a
musical theatre performer.
Learning aim A
Rebecca Sellors
2077.

2. Overview of presentation
• Comparison of working practices within the Musical
Theatre Industry
• Key features of the role and skills of a Musical Theatre
Performer
• Sharing research findings

3. How to get into the
industry?
• There are many different routes such as Drama College
or having taken a musical theatre course. University
courses. Auditions for shows, parts within professional
and amateur shows.

4. Comparison of training
routes.

5. Performers.
• Year one- performer will learn the basic core skills and
techniques needed to be a successful performer. There will also
be a written element to the course including anatomy and
physiology, health and safety and other contextual studies.
• Year two- strengthening the skills learnt in year one and
developing them further.
• The performer will then also take on additional dance styles and
choreography if choosing the dance diploma and the musical
theatre performers will take on musicianship, singing and acting
in more detail.
• Year three- the performer will learn professional employment
skills and also be guided towards their own career goals.
Performers will get many opportunities for experience within the
industry. Both musical theatre performers and dancers will put
on their own shows, they will also perform within the Annual
College showcase. All of these performance experiences act as a
show case for directors, choreographers and agents.

6. Bird College.
• Musical theatre diploma- a 3 year full time course which is located at
Trinity College London.
• Fees are £11,250 per academic year.
• Combination of dance and theatre studies with the history behind dance
and musical theatre.
• Year one at Bird College will include a variety of dance studies
including, Ballet, contemporary, tap and jazz.
• The performer will also start their theatre studies which includes,
musical theatre, singing and acting and finally the performer will start
their combined studies which are the dance history, fitness, health and
safety and music theory.
• Year two will continue developing the performers dance studies their
theatre studies Combined studies, fitness, health and safety, history of
musical theatre and music theory and appreciation.
• Year three is the finalisation stage where the performer will finalise their
dance studies, theatre studies where there will be group and solo
performances and finally complete their combined studies of
professional employment skills and solo project via voice.

7. • Has been training West End and Broadway stars for 25 years.
• Such as Amanda Holden, who is an actress, singer and presenter. She graduated
in July 1992 and she immediately got a job in Granada’s In Suspicious
Circumstances with Edward Woodward. Amanda is with James Grant agency,
which works with people from many different aspects of performing and
entertainment such as music, TV, sport, social, voiceover, literary.
• Three year course
• Leave with an acting diploma
• Within practical lessons you will work on:
• Stage combat
• Screen acting
• Radio
• Voice
• Text
• Movement
• Improvisation.

8. Mountview.
• During practical lessons it is important to experiment, try new things, all ideas
no matter what it is.
• Mountview quotes “ no one learned to be a good actor just by reading a book”.
• Explore full potential, work with their strengths and expand on knowledge of
imaginative and physical performance skills.
• Within the students first two years at Mountview they will learn and create
projects on contemporary writing such as Shakespeare, European and American
drama and original devised work. The students liaise with Mountview’s
Industry Liaison team which helps them to prepare and understand life as an
actor or actress.
• Finally their final year includes a public performance and a film which means
they will work with professional directors to prepare a variety of productions
and a West End showcase which will be performed to casting directors, agents
and other people within the industry. There is practical assessment throughout
the course.

9. 3 week Mountview.
• Mountview also offer a three week summer course with a cost of £810 which runs from
Monday the 24th of July to Friday the 11th of August 2017.
• These three weeks will allow you to study at one of the top drama schools in the UK, you
will focus on triple threat training.
• This course includes “90 hours of the top musical theatre training”.
• Week one will include all three art forms, which is 30 hours of intense triple threat training.
Dance lessons will help you build on your strength and stamina, your dance technique and
also allow you to express yourself through movement. Acting classes will help your
characterisation and creativity and finally singing lessons discover correct vocal techniques,
improve sight reading and finally develop your musicality.
• Week two will include an ensemble performance showcasing all of the skills learnt and
developed from week one. The second week will focus on attention to detail, binding all the
vital skills needed to be a triple theatre performer.
• The third and final week will give you lots of tips and advice for auditions to be successful
within the industry. You will also learn how to chose the correct songs, monologues and
choreography for future auditions.

10. • Three year full time course
• Triple threat training, singing, dancing and acting. Each day the
performer will have a lesson in each area.
• Year One: performer will focus on their techniques and self-
discovery, each art form will be supported by theory work on the
history of musical theatre and fitness and health and safety, which
will be supported by some note taking.
• Practical, the performer will have regular dance classes in many
different styles such as tap, ballet, pilates and contemporary.
• Work on their strengths as a performer, focus and progress on their
areas of weaknesses.
• Students will work as part of a team and as a solo within all three
art forms.
• During acting lessons will include improvisational techniques,
musical theatre and choreographic development, they will also
learn about a few practitioners such as Hagen and Stanislavski.

11. MADD.
• Year two will follow on from year one developing core skills from the first year
and progressing to a higher standard.
• Additional classes such as extra dance classes in styles such as Latin and
ballroom. They will also learn some form of stage combat within their acting
classes.
• During the performers second year at MADD they will have a chance to
audition for a few short plays and musicals for a performance in the schools
studio theatre.
• Year three: the main focus is on their performance and professional attitude in
all elements of the industry.
• This year will mostly be teamwork as if they were a company; they are required
to perform in many production throughout the year within the schools theatre
and other outside venues.
• There is an opportunity for students to work with casting directors, leading
agents, choreographers and directors however they will also focus on branding
and how to market their performances which helps them prepare for the
industry.
• The performer’s final year is aimed to allow a successful transition from college
into the performing industry.

12. Interview with Abi
Sweeney.
Typical day at MADD from my interview with Abi Sweeney. Abi
Sweeney is an ex MADD student who studied the 3 year full time course.
 Signed in by 8:30, if not big trouble.
 Each day there are 3 or 4 dance classes a day in many different
styles, this is to give you a better range of dance styles and to
improve your technique. You will also have a singing ensemble
lesson everyday
 You’d also have a musical theatre class and then some kind of
acting class such as monologues or things like that.

13. Interview with Abi
Sweeney.
 Every week there was a performance class where the teachers would
chose five people at random and you were basically critiqued in front of
your whole year group.
 It was always constructive criticism but then you would have keep
doing it. You’d present your sheet music and it would be treated like an
audition, these classes happened every week however on every third
week there would be a guest tutor in to watch.
 The guest tutor would be somebody in a London musical or a
commercial dancer or somebody who is in the industry.
 At MADD you work from 8:30 in the morning till 6:30 at night. You
got a forty minute lunch during the day and then just a quick drink
when changing shoes between classes.

14. Personal opinion.
• In my opinion I believe MADD would be the best option
for me as there is a higher focus on the dance element to
the industry which is one of my strongest points. I also
enjoy dance the most out of all three art forms meaning I
feel this would be the most beneficial for me.
• I also believe MADD could make me a better performer
by developing my knowledge within the industry and
also work on my confidence when performing.

15. How to get an agent.
• Some people get an agent straight after drama school or
performance college. This is because they usually
perform in a final showcase which is mainly for casting
directors and agents MADD quoted that at least 25 of
their students out of 30 last year got agents from the
showcase. This is important because it allows you to get
straight into the industry as once you have an agent they
will help you get many different auditions.
• Some people may start work straight after drama school
however some may wait for a few months before finding
the right job for them.

16. How to get an agent.
• You could even get noticed by being in show and having
only one line this is shown by Helen Hobson. Even
though she only had one line within Pilot of Judge John
Deed casting directors automatically spotted her and
knew she’d be a West End theatre actress.
• The reason why Helen took part in this is because she
wanted to try something new, Helen was always looking
for experiences to widen her horizon.

17. A Musical Theatre
Performers CV.
My example is Natasha Mashkevich
• She trained at Royal Conservatory of Brussels, in Belgium.
• Languages she is fluent in are English, French, Hebrew, Spanish,
she also knows Brazilian Portuguese however only conversational. Her
native language is Russian.
• Natasha also has skills in Horse Riding, Tennis, Climbing, Swimming,
Sword Fighting.
• She can play the piano and sings in Mezzo Soprano.
• The dance styles she is trained in are Classical, Jazz,
Modern, Latin and Salsa.
• DANCE: Classical, Modern, Jazz, Latin, Salsa
• She has been in may musicals such as Our Lady Of
Perpetual Donuts, where she played Edna (‘Edna’ Dir
Jordan Beswick [Sokol.M Productions]).
• LA FEMME PLACARD which is a French Musical.

18. The role of a Musical
Theatre performer.
• Ensemble
• Lead roles
• Understudy

19. Ensemble.
• To be a good ensemble each person needs to have the
following skills:
• Communication
• Dedication
• Motivation
• Preparation
• Team work

20. Lead roles.
• You are the star of the show
• People have paid to see you
• Work directly with choreographers, directors and vocal
coaches.
• A wide range of skills and disciplines needed: team work for
ensemble numbers even though you’re a main role you’ll still
have to work with others. Time management, organisation
and dedication.
• Biggest reward is the thrill from performing.

21. Understudy.
• There may be more than one understudy for main characters or roles, this is to ensure
they have back up.
• Understudies are usually understudies for more than one lead role
• As soon as the lead falls ill you are now the star of the show meaning you will get the
treatment they did for example their hair and make up will get done.
• It is your time to shine! Make the most of the performance enjoy yourself as much as
possible and show them that you were made for the show.
• Next time they cast for the show they could make you the lead instead of the
understudy so always make the most of very chance and try your hardest.
• Even though there is a high chance you won’t be performing on stage you still need
to know all the lines in case something happens to the lead role you are the back up,
which is then your time to shine.
• You can also create strong bonds with people within the industry such as directors,
choreographers, actors and agents. Even though you may not get the chance to go on
stage you still get to work within the company and get experience from behind the
scenes.

22. Skills.
Specific skills needed for dance- a range of dance styles are
needed when dancing such as ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary.
This is being a diverse performer by being able to perform a
range of styles. Within ballet you need specific skills such as turn
out, pointed toes. Other skills needed within dance are
musicality, phrasing, stamina and spatial awareness.
Specific skills needed for singing- breath control, timing, tuning
and projection.
Specific skills needed for acting- Characterisation, facial
expressions, accents and blocking.

23. Skills.
• Different shows require different skills for example Lion king,
puppetry is needed to make it more realistic.
• Chicago, triple threat needed, need to be familiar with fosse
style of dance.
• If you were in a musical such as anything goes then you
would need to have good technique and be a fluent rhythmic
tap dancer. This is important because anything goes main
dance style is take.
• Working in an ensemble requires team work and
communication.
• Accents depending on where the musical or show is set.
• Acting skills you need would include techniques such as
emotional memory from stanislavski technique.

24. Louise
Dearman
Skills
Attributes
Qualities

25. Skills.
• Diversity within your performances might make you a
higher standard performer for example Louise Dearman
playing both witches in Wicked.
• Another example of this is Paul Cattermole who played
both Eddie and Dr Scott.
• In Peter Pan it is a tradition for Captain Hook and Mr.
Darling to be played by the same actor.

26. Attributes.
• When auditioning MADD look for “potential, talent,
attitude, and the determination to succeed”.
• When auditioning for any role the company look for
performers who are dedicated, have a positive attitude,
punctual and determination to succeed.

27. Qualities.
• Musical theatre performers need to be creative
and imaginative as they may need to have
their own ideas on how to make performances
better, being creative allows them to put their
own spin on the work.

28. Research Findings from
The Stage.
• According to the stage an acting course
will cover movement and singing
skills.
• A musical theatre course will cover all
three art forms in greater depth.
• They believe it is easier within the
industry if you are a triple threat
because there are twice as many
musicals in the West End to straight
plays.
• Also most musicals usually run for
longer than straight plays.
• If you’re involved in a musical you
may also be asked to tour with the
company once the show has finished in
the West End.

29. Research Findings from
The Stage.• A musical will last for around a year in
the West End however if the company
goes on tour your contract may be
extended to the length of the tour.
• Where as straight plays only last for
around 12 weeks in the West End and
do not usually tour.
• Musicals also tour meaning that your
contract could be extended to go on tour
with the crew performing the musical
all over the country maybe even the
world.
• Musical theatre work is not easy as each
year drama schools turn out hundreds
of graduates who are all as keen and
well trained as the year before. Which
means this career is more competitive
than ever and you need to be dedicated
and determined to do well.

30. Interview with Sean
Jones.
 Sean Jones is currently in the touring show of Blood Brothers.
 Studied at Guildhall, London.
 Straight acting course, he never wanted to be a musical
theatre performer he hated singing. Not one of his strengths.
 Got expelled from school went on to do a YTS in a theatre, a
YTS course is similar to an apprenticeship.
 A friend had been to watch Blood Brothers and thought the
character Mickey was really like Sean. So he went to watch it
he was inspired by this and wanted to play the role of Mickey.

31. Interview with Sean
Jones.
 Because Sean wasn’t a musical theatre performer he had to adapt
slightly when he got the part of Mickey. The night before the audition
for Mickey he had an hour and a half with an old friend who helped
him prepare the song for the following day.
 The director may give notice when coming to watch the show
however sometimes he may just turn up.
 Reasons behind this could be a bad show report any mishaps that
happen such as lighting cues or people missing entrances or messing
around goes into the show report which the director then sees.
 However your agent will always let you know if they are coming to
watch the show as they want free tickets.

32. • A typical day for a musical theatre performer starts off by
doing there morning vocal warm ups, which prepares them
for the auditions ahead . If the performer has an instrument
rather than their voice then they need to ensure it is tuned
and ready to go.
• The performer should also do a physical warm up to stretch
out all muscles as the auditioner may decide to run a small
workshop style dance class to see what their ability is.
• However if there is a higher standard for the dancing side of
the performance then you will more than likely be required to
prepare a solo piece to perform to them on the day and hand
over the music you have been preparing with.
A typical day for a performer.

33. A typical day for a
performer.
• The performer will usually start their day by having a light but filling breakfast,
this is so that they have a boost of energy to prepare them for the day.
According to the website Shmoop Melody believes good breakfast would
include something such as fruit, granola or yoghurt, including a drink such as
water or milk.
• Once they have had their breakfast there will be one last check of their bag to
ensure they have all belongings needed for the day ahead of them.
• Punctuality is very important when auditioning, the performer should set off
with more time than needed to ensure that they arrive within plenty of time to
allow them to sign in and do the necessary warm ups to prepare.
• If you aren’t there on time you will not have a second chance to audition as they
will not be able to rely on you for the actual performance and rehearsals.

34. Preparing for a full day
of rehearsals.
• The preparations start the night before.
• Organise your bag with all belongings you will need for the
rehearsal such as correct footwear (types of dance shoes e.g ballet,
tap, character, jazz). Script, lyrics, extra clothing such as costume or
suitable clothing that is required for your role.
• Go to sleep at a reasonable time so that you are refreshed and
ready to go.
• On the day you may need to prepare your lunch as you may need
to provide your own food, remember to take lots of water it is key
to keep hydrated.
• You will be required to perform with maximal energy and
enthusiasm throughout the rehearsal and also the performance.

35. A day in the life of a
musical theatre performer.
• All performers will be part of the equity union meaning:
• They will have a minimum they get paid for every job they do.
• Ensures good working conditions
• Equity pays a minimum of £350 per week
• If you have an injury and are unable to perform your equity
insurance will give you £150 per week for up to a year to help
you.

36. Musical theatre performers
have to work with….
People such as:
• Directors
• Choreographers
• Vocal coaches
• Stage management
• Understudies
• Cast
• Wardrobe mistresses
• Make up artists

37. In my opinion.
• I would like to be like Darcey Bussell
• Retired ballerina
• A judge on Strictly come
dancing since 2012
• This is because my dream is
becoming a ballerina

38. Darcey in action.

39. Audrey Hepburn.
• Her birth name was Audrey Kathleen Ruston and
was born on the 4th of May 1929.
• She was professionally trained in Ballet. She studied
ballet with Sonia Gaskell and moved to London in
1948.
• Audrey then continued her Ballet training at Ballet
Rambert with Marie Rambert herself, the founder of
the company.
• She then performed in West End musicals as a chorus
girl.
• Audrey won an Academy award, a Golden Globe
and a BAFTA award from her lead role in Roman
Holiday.

40. Audrey Hepburn.

41. Summary.
• Overall being a musical theatre performer isn’t easy as
there are constant battles to get another job once one
show is over however you get a huge thrill from
performing.
• There are different training routes to get into the
industry which may suit different people better.
• Equity will support you if anything goes wrong and to
give you a fair wage.

42. Bibliography.
• http://www.shmoop.com/careers/musical-theater-performer/typical-day.html
• http://www.mountview.org.uk/applying/studying-at-mountview/admissions-
policy.html
• http://bird-college.com/he-fe/full-time-courses/ba-hons-in-professional-dance-
and-musical-theatre/entry-requirements/
• http://performerscollege.co.uk/entry-funding/
• https://www.equity.org.uk/documents/musical-theatre.../musical-theatre-2014.pdf
• http://www.cdalondon.com/os/wp-
content/uploads/2015/11/NatashaMashkevich.pdf
• http://www.biography.com/people/audrey-hepburn-9335788#synopsis

43. Thank you for
listening.