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What are musical theatre majors expected to know from the beginning?

I'm a junior in high school and I want to major in musical theatre. I have some experience in singing and acting, but only very basic experience in dance. How much will I be expected to know when I first start the program? Should I be looking for dance classes? Thanks so much to anyone who answers!

Public Comments

1. Some college auditions have a dance component that will require basic dance. I'd recommend taking a tap class, at least.
2. The quality and experience of your fellow theater majors are going to vary according to the competitiveness of the performing arts program you choose, and the variety of concentrations it offers. Most state universities and their branches and most community colleges get a real mix of talent and experience ranging to kids in the third year of college who suddenly switch to performing arts because they got involved in their very first production last semester. I wouldn't sweat it. Any instruction or experience you can muster before enrolling is a healthy plus, and may give you a head start on some of the more demanding work within the curriculum not to mention a competitive edge when auditioning for specific productions.