WHAT TO PREPARE
In a Musical Theatre Performance, the Thespian(s) must present one (1) musical selection from a published score written for Musical Theatre that does not exceed five (5) minutes in length. The adjudicators will consider how well the piece is acted as well as how well it is sung. Thespians must also adhere to the following:
- A Solo Musical Theatre Performance is defined by the International Thespian Excellence Awards as a piece from a Musical Theatre score that includes vocal music written for an individual.
- Review the Rights & Licensing page to ensure that the chosen material is eligible to be performed for Thespys adjudication. Purchasing a vocal selection book or musical score does not secure the rights to perform the work for Thespys adjudication.
- All rules listed in the Senior Thespian General Rules apply.
- All Musical Theatre performances must be accompanied by pre-recorded, non-vocal musical accompaniment in MP3, M4A, WAV, or AIFF format (must be an audio file, not a video file). 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 various settings. No live music including accompanists is permitted.
- A sound system will be provided for playback, but performers may choose to bring their own Bluetooth speaker if they desire.
- Acapella performances are not permitted unless the selection was specifically written to be performed as such in the musical.
- The performance may contain dialogue if included in the libretto, however, it should primarily be a “sung and not spoken” selection.
- In a Solo Musical Theatre Performance, three (3) chairs, and one (1) sturdy 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.