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Behind the Curtain: How Musical Theatre Training Prepares You for the Stage

Behind the Curtain
Musical Theatre Training Prepares You for the Stage

Musical theatre is a dynamic type of performance, combining acting, singing and dancing. Mastering this type of performance requires intense commitment and endless musical theatre training, as performers need to be triple threats. Behind every dance move, line and note are hours of rigorous practice and disciplined training.

Professional musical theatre training is the best way for aspiring performers to prepare themselves for a career on the stage. At Italia Conti, we know that achieving success in musical theatre relies on a well-rounded education. So, we focus on building versatile performers who are capable and comfortable on the stage.

In this article, we’ll talk about musical theatre training for adults and why it’s essential for aspiring performers who are aiming for the stage.

Becoming a Triple Threat

Musical theatre training focuses on developing students who are triple threats, skilled in singing, dancing and acting. This versatility is essential for any performer who wants to work in musical theatre, as most roles will involve skill and experience in all three areas

Training will offer structured and rigorous practice in each discipline, allowing students to build a strong foundation in all areas. Students will also gain an understanding of how song, dance and acting can complement each other on stage, to deliver compelling and convincing performances.

Singing

Singing training focuses on developing vocal techniques including range, breath control and stamina.

Performers need to be capable of singing powerfully, even during demanding dance routines. Musical theatre training will help students master their voice, whilst also building the stamina needed to perform challenging pieces night after night.

Dance Training

Dance training is also rigorous, covering styles from ballet and jazz to contemporary. Performers will build on their coordination, flexibility and rhythm, whilst rehearsing various routines and styles of choreography.

The physical aspect of dance training is great for stamina too, which further helps students’ singing abilities. Perfecting moving across the stage confidently and gracefully is also great for stage presence.

Acting Training

The final weapon in a student’s arsenal is acting. Acting training is essential for helping performers connect with their characters, bringing authenticity to performances. Through scene work, improvisation and character analysis, students learn to convey emotions and deliver incredible performances that resonate with audiences.

Wider Musical Theatre Skills

Training goes beyond singing, acting and dancing, too. Students also develop the stamina, resilience and discipline they need to succeed in the musical theatre industry. Training is just as much about building mental and physical strength as it is about mastering the essential skills.

Rehearsals and sessions will be intense often with long rehearsal days. This rigorous schedule prepares students for professional life, cultivating the discipline and dedication that will be needed for life after training.

At Italia Conti, we provide students with the training, support and opportunities they need to pursue their passion for musical theatre. By creating versatile, triple-threat students, we set performers up for a successful career in the creative industries, turning aspiring artists into true professionals.

  • “I have just graduated from Liverpool Theatre School with a Level 6 Diploma in Professional Musical Theatre. I wanted to do the BA Hons (Top Up) in Professional Arts Practice course to further develop my skills for the industry. It is the perfect balance between academic writing and creativity. I already have seen improvements, both in my academic and performing work, and I now really value the ability to critically reflect on past experiences in order to improve my current skills.”

    - Sarah Collinge – Musical Theatre Performer Current Student, Class of July 2024
  • “I have found that my first term at Italia Conti has been better than I could’ve imagined. I am working with driven, passionate, likeminded people within all different realms of the performing arts industry. I find that the course is very tailored to each individual and the content is broad enough to apply to everyone but specific enough to challenge each person within their abilities. I find the course to be a place where I can collaborate and interact with people who I’d never had met otherwise. I only look forward to what the next few months of the course bring and feel more motivated than ever.”

    - Kate Drummond – Actor Current Student, Class of July 2024
  • Current Student, Class of July 2024
    “The course is allowing me to reflect on my past practice, current position, and future endeavours. I really enjoy how flexible the course is, with regards to being able to tailor my studies to my own practice, enabling me to maximise the benefits of this on my future career. I expect my professional development to be impacted exponentially and I am excited to continue!”

    - Amy-Jo Sumner – Musical Theatre Performer
  • “Italia Conti’s BA Top up course was the one for me! Creating a business in under 9 months has been a massive accomplishment! The course really helps shape your future, enables you to meet professional contacts to support your research, and gives you lots of time to understand the area of the industry you want to specialise in.”

    - Rachel Ward – Performing Arts Tutor Graduate, BA Top up Class of Sept 2022
  • I’m a professional dancer but have taught only ballet. These classes are EXACTLY what I was looking for to show some basics of contemp for my students !! Absolutely love every single Video

    - @ginamusaelyan2307 – Italia Conti Virtual
  • I’ve watched a lot of your videos and I love every single one that she teaches. THANK YOU. Gorgeous movement.

    - @debbied3464 – Italia Conti Virtual
  • Amazing class, one of the best I’ve ever done. So easy to follow, thank you!

    - @yellowbeachgirl – Italia Conti Virtual
  • I’m a dancer in LA and can’t keep up with my peers on how often they take dance classes. This channel has been so helpful for me to keep up my training. Thank you for sharing this with the world. I feel like we are all dancing together even though we are all doing this at different times and in different spaces. 🖤

    - @SarahPaceSings – Italia Conti Virtual
  • Best ballet teacher on the internet Great explanation, enthusiasm and commentary throughout the exercise!

    - @annajones6805 – Italia Conti Virtual