What Does a Musical Theatre Dance Thespy Entry Involve?
For a Musical Theatre Dance entry, 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 Musical Theatre Dance entries in the following categories:
- Solo: One (1) performer
- Duet: Two (2) performers
- Ensemble: Three (3) to sixteen (16) performers
In each case, every participant must be actively engaged in the selection chosen for performance.
Scenic Elements
The following furniture may be safely used in Musical Theatre Dance adjudications:
- Solo: One (1) chair
- Duet: Two (2) chairs
- Ensemble: Up to six (6) chairs and one (1) table
No other scenic elements, furniture, or props are allowed.
Additional Requirements
As this is a dance-focused category, singing, dialogue, and lip-synching are not allowed.
Acceptable Material
Entrants must confirm eligibility of their performance selection by using the search tool on the Approved Material webpage. The title of the show for which the song was written must appear on the approved materials list in order to be presented in adjudication. No other approval methods are allowed.
All Musical Theatre Dance performances must be accompanied by a pre-recorded musical track.
- The track must be MP3, M4A, WAV, or AIFF format (it must be an audio file, not a video file).
- The track may contain vocal performances (i.e., a cast recording from a Broadway show is acceptable) or may be instrumental-only.
- The file should be downloaded onto a device for playback (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.
- A sound system or speaker will be provided for playback with Bluetooth and AUX cable. Thespians may choose to bring their own speaker to ensure reliable connectivity.
Skills Measured
The skills measured by the adjudicators during the presentation are:
- Characterization – Emotional and physical believability, demonstrating clear choices and relationships with real or implied partners.
- Expression – Intentional use of physical expression to communicate character and reflect the story.
- Dance Expression & Technique – Confidence, body control, spatial awareness, and movement that communicate emotion, subtext, and story.
- Execution – Sustained focus and commitment, integrating all performance elements to create a believable character and tell a clear story.
