Musical theatre – dance

Musical theatre can be defined as telling a story through song, spoken dialogue and dance. 

Theatrical conventions and techniques of this performance style include:

• strong, emphatic acting style

• storytelling through the use of song

• spoken dialogue included in the songs

• use of solo, duet and ensemble performance 

• acting, singing and dancing skills 

• catchy music in a popular style

• fresh and inventive use of language for song lyrics, including rhyme

• dance sequences, stage spectacles and magnificent costumes.

Dance specific characteristics include:

• unison or ensemble movement

• over-exaggerated facial expressions

• gestural movement

• formations/movements that highlight the lead characters.

Musical theatre is commonly known for its ability to use spoken dialogue, music and dance in combination to tell a story. The songs in the Wizard of Oz segment from the 2019 Schools Spectacular showcase a variety of adaptations of the original screenplay.  

Research the musicals in which each song appears.

Musical theatre has the function of storytelling by advancing the narrative through song, acting and dance, as well as revealing the internal thoughts of the different characters.

• Identify the central characters from each of the musicals in this collection and discuss the way the choreographer has shaped the movement to highlight their storyline.

• Describe how the choreographer has used the elements of dance and the characteristics of musical theatre to further communicate the ideas of these musicals.

• Evaluate the choreographers' appropriate and effective movement content to communicate the idea of the work.

The showstopper song in this segment is A Brand New Day. Discuss the choreographer's use of the musical theatre style to showcase this big triumphant celebration.

As the style of musical theatre moved into the 21st century, there has been a movement towards incorporating contemporary styles. This is represented in both song and dance.

• Compare the stylistic differences between the 1952 song Singin’ in the Rain and My Shot from the 2015 musical Hamilton.

It is common to have both strong male and female lead characters who the audience can relate to and believe in. An ensemble of characters is also common as a support to the lead characters in their development. When performing, they often use large facial expressions, gestures and interaction with the ensemble to reveal the character.

• Outline how the male and female lead characters are portrayed. What characteristics of the ensemble has the choreographer used to highlight their storyline?

• Musicality contributes to the interpretation of characters within a work. Discuss how the lead dancers achieve this and how it relates to their characters.

• Dance is a reflection of the society from which it emerges. Describe the movement choices the choreographer has made to communicate this to the audience.