Dance Class Defined: What to Expect in a Musical Theater Dance Class

A Musical Theater dance class combines dance, acting, and sometimes singing to help students develop the skills used in Broadway-style productions. Sometimes referred to as Broadway jazz, Song and Dance, or Triple Threat (singing, dancing, acting), these classes focus on storytelling through movement and often feature choreography inspired by famous musicals. Students learn how to express emotions, use facial expressions, and embody different characters while dancing. Musical theater dance classes are a fun way to develop confidence, stage presence, and dance technique while bringing theatrical stories to life!

What Happens in a Musical Theater Dance Class?

A typical musical theater dance class includes stretching, strengthening exercises, and movement drills to prepare the body. Across the floor, students practice traveling steps, turns, and leaps that are commonly used in musical theater choreography. Students learn dance routines inspired by Broadway shows, incorporating acting into their movements.

Some classes may include singing while dancing to help students develop stamina and coordination. During the duration of class, the instructor will encourage students to practice conveying emotions, gestures, and expressions to bring a character to life!

What to Expect at Your Dance Studio

Class length varies by studio and age group, but most musical theater classes are 45 minutes to 1 hour long. Musical theater classes are open to dancers of all levels, from beginners to advanced performers. Beginning level classes for youngsters should introduce musical theater in fun and creative ways, while intermediate to advanced levels for teens and adults refine technique, develop character work, and enhance performing skills.

Depending on where they take class, students may have the opportunity to showcase their musical theater routines in dance recitals, competitions, or even community or school productions.

What is the Dress Attire in a Musical Theater Class?

Dress codes may vary by studio, but common attire includes form-fitting dancewear such as leotards, tank tops, or fitted T-shirts. Leggings or dance shorts should be sufficient as well.

For footwear, some studios may want students to wear ballet slippers or jazz shoes, while dancers in older classes may wear heeled character shoes. Double check the studio’s dance attire requirements before purchasing.

Some classes may allow dance skirts, knee pads for floor work, or hats for performance routines.

Where To Take Class

Are you interested in finding a great musical theater dance class for you or your child? Click here to begin your search!

Watch and Learn a Musical Theater Combination

Learn the choreography to “You Can’t Stop The Beat” from the HairsprayUKTour!

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