COURSE CURRICULUM

The Musical Theatre option in the theatre program at the University of New Hampshire is a performance-intensive track designed for students who want to develop professional-level skills in acting, singing, and dance as an integrated art form. This program trains students to become versatile musical theatre performers by combining rigorous studio work with academic study in theatre history, voice, movement, and performance techniques. Students take a structured sequence of courses that build progressively in acting, vocal training, and dance, including Acting I, Acting The Song, Musical Theatre Scene Study, Musical Theatre Repertoire, and multiple levels of Musical Theatre Voice training. Dance training is also a key component, with required courses such as Ballet, Theatre Dance I and II, and additional options like Pointe or Aerial Dance to strengthen physical performance skills. Students also study foundational theatre areas such as Stagecraft, Elements of Design, and History of Musical Theatre in America to gain a deeper understanding of how productions are created and how the genre has evolved. A major feature of the program is continuous performance experience through practicums, where students rotate through real production roles including performing, costumes, lighting, props, box office, and marketing, ensuring a broad understanding of theatre operations. Voice development is emphasized through multiple levels of Musical Theatre Voice courses, helping students build vocal technique, stamina, and expressive range. The program also includes acting and movement training designed to support emotional expression, stage presence, and physical storytelling. Students complete a capstone project in their final year, demonstrating their artistic and technical growth. Because of its practical structure and performance focus, the program prepares graduates for careers in professional theatre, musical theatre performance, touring productions, regional theatre, and related entertainment industries, while also providing a strong foundation for further study in performing arts or musical theatre conservatories.