If you’ve ever been to a live performance full of singing, dancing, and storytelling, you’ve probably experienced the magic of musical theatre. But if you want to look a little deeper than the magic, you might be wondering, ‘What is musical theatre, really?’. In this guide, we’ll break it down, from what it includes to the unique skills that musical theatre training can help develop, plus why it’s such an exciting area of the performing arts for young people. So, What is Musical Theatre? At the core, musical theatre is a form of performing arts that combines three main elements: acting, singing and dancing. Unlike plays, concerts, or dance performances, musical theatre tells a story using all three disciplines together. The dialogue helps move the plot, songs help express emotion and highlight specific moments, and dance brings energy, style, and mood. From Broadway blockbusters like Hamilton and Wicked, to classic performances such as The Sound of Music, Annie, or Grease, musical theatre continues to entertain and capture the hearts of audiences across the world. We are proud to have seen many Italia Conti alumni gracing musical theatre stages across the world – namely Layton Williams in ‘Titanique’, Hannah Lowther in ‘Six the Musical’, and Daniel Mays in ‘Guys and Dolls’, amongst many others. What is Musical Theatre Dance? A common question from students new to the genre of musical theatre is, ‘What is musical theatre dance?’. Musical theatre dance refers to the specific style of choreography used in these types of performances. Usually, this is different to technical dance. It often combines disciplines like jazz, ballet, tap and contemporary, but it focuses on storytelling through movement. Unlike technical dance performances, musical theatre dance is heavily character driven. The goal isn’t just to move well and wow, but to act through movement, using body language and facial expressions to support the story. Training in this specific style of dance helps young performers become expressive, adaptable, and confident on stage. Why Choose Musical Theatre? For students who have a love of performance, musical theatre offers a chance to develop a wide range of creative skills. It’s one of the most well-rounded disciplines in the arts, requiring commitment, versatility, and a willingness to step into a character’s shoes. But looking beyond just technique and technical ability, musical theatre is a brilliant way to grow. From confidence and communication to teamwork and self-belief, there are so many benefits to be taken from musical theatre. Whether you’re preparing for a drama school audition or you simply want to explore a fun, high-energy hobby, musical theatre opens doors both on and off-stage. Where to Start: A Beginner’s Guide Aspiring musical theatre students can start as young as 5 in some drama schools. There are also Camps, like our Conti Camp, which introduce young people to skills like: ensemble singing, jazz, tap, improv and more, in a supportive, encouraging and playful environment. Many drama schools will also offer part-time weekend training in musical theatre, with options to pursue exams, showcases, and even agency representation, if you’re really serious about a career in musical theatre. Is Musical Theatre Right for You? If you’re curious, energetic, and love performing, then musical theatre could be the perfect fit. It challenges you to express yourself in new ways, builds stage presence, and connects you with a vibrant community of like-minded performers.