Senior Thespian Musical Theatre Dance

WHAT TO PREPARE

In a Musical Theatre Dance performance, the Thespian(s) must present one (1) selection from a published score written for a musical theatre scene with a focus on dance performance that does not exceed five (5) minutes in length. The adjudicators will consider the dancers’ command of technique as well as how effectively the dancers’ embodiment of the choreography tells the story.  

NUMBER OF PERFORMERS

Thespians may present solo, duet, or group performances.

  • Solo: One (1) performer
  • Duet: Two (2) performers
  • Group: Three to sixteen (3-16) performers

In each case, every participant must be actively involved in the selection chosen for performance. 

  1. Review the Rights & Licensing page to ensure that the chosen material is eligible to be performed for Thespys adjudication. Purchasing a cast album recording does not secure the rights to perform the work.
  2. All rules listed in the Senior Thespian General Rules apply.
  3. All Musical Theatre Dance performances must be accompanied by pre-recorded musical track.
    1. The track must be MP3, M4A, WAV, or AIFF format (must be an audio file, not a video file). 
    2. The track may contain vocal performances (i.e., a cast recording from a Broadway show is acceptable) or may be instrumental-only.
    3. It is strongly recommended that the file be downloaded onto a device (e.g., smartphone, computer) rather than relying on a streaming file as internet connectivity can be unreliable in adjudication settings and internet ads can disrupt playback. 
    4. No live music including accompanists is permitted. 
  4. A sound system will be provided for playback, but performers may choose to bring their own Bluetooth speaker if they desire.  
  5. If highlighting only a dance section from a longer musical number that includes singing, it is acceptable to present only the dance section.
  6. This is a dance-focused category. Singing, dialogue, and lip-synching are not allowed, except to include brief moments of vocalization, if required to perform the piece. 
  7. In a Solo Musical Theatre Dance Performance, one (1) chair may be safely used. In a Duet Musical Theatre Dance Performance, two (2) chairs may be safely used. In a Group Musical Theatre Dance Performance, up to six (6) chairs and one (1) table may be safely used. No other scenic elements or furniture are allowed. “Safely” means that items may be used in a safe manner but should not be used as props (e.g., pushed over, lifted, etc.). Sitting on, laying across, and/or standing upon a chair is usually acceptable so long as safety is the priority (i.e., if a chair has wheels, it would not be considered safe to stand upon). Thespians may not stand on a table. Thespians should take this into consideration when rehearsing their entry in case adjustments to blocking/choreography are needed in the adjudication room.
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