The Benefits of Performance Exams for Young Musical Theatre Performers
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In the vibrant world of musical theatre, where the stage is your canvas and emotions are your palette, the journey to stardom often begins with smaller steps...
One of these valuable steps is taking performance exams, a practice that offers numerous benefits to aspiring young musical theatre performers. With so many to choose from, including RADA Messenger Awards, Rockschool, Trinity Exams, and LAMDA, here is some insight into what young performers can seek to gain from performance examinations.
Gaining More Performance Experience
It is often said that practice makes perfect, and in the realm of musical theatre, there is no substitute for the stage. Performance exams provide a unique opportunity for young performers to gain valuable stage experience. These exams allow you to showcase your talents, whether it's singing, acting, or dancing, in a formal setting. This stage time not only hones your skills but also builds your confidence as you become more accustomed to the thrill of live performance.
Overcoming the Fear of Smaller Audiences
The fear of performing in front of others is a common hurdle that many performers face. Performance exams offer an excellent opportunity to address this fear head-on. Unlike the security of a packed theatre, a darkened room and blinding stage lights, these exams are attended by a smaller audience of one or two examination board members, which can be intimidating. By repeatedly exposing yourself to these more intimate settings, you gradually become more comfortable with performing in front of all types of audiences. This newfound confidence will serve you well as you progress in your musical theatre journey, whether it's in auditions, workshops, or smaller, more intimate productions.
Audition-Like Experience
Performance exams provide a taste of what it's like to audition in front of a panel. This experience can be invaluable for young performers, as auditions are a significant part of a musical theatre career. Facing a panel of judges during a performance exam helps you get used to the process, enabling you to showcase your abilities confidently. You'll learn to handle nerves and with each exam you will receive constructive feedback enabling you to continue to progress. Over time, these skills will become second nature, giving you a competitive edge in auditions.
Self-Taping Skills for the Digital Age
In our ever-evolving world, adaptability is key for any aspiring musical theatre performer. The COVID-19 pandemic transformed the entertainment industry, making digital auditions and self-taped performances a standard practice. Many syllabi, like LAMDA Musical Theatre exams, now call for taped musical theatre performances when entering a for a remote online assessment, and this requirement holds great value for young performers.
Participating in performance exams that involve taped musical theatre performances can be an invaluable opportunity to develop your self-taping skills. These skills have become increasingly important as the industry adapts to virtual auditions and online casting. Learning to set up your camera, lighting, and sound, as well as delivering a compelling performance in front of a lens, is now an essential part of a performer's toolkit.
By taking advantage of this aspect of performance exams, you not only excel in the exam itself but also prepare yourself for the demands of the modern entertainment industry. You'll be well-equipped to navigate the digital audition landscape, ensuring your talent shines through. Incorporating self-taping skills into your repertoire can open doors to a wider range of opportunities, making you a more versatile and adaptable performer in a post-pandemic world. So, embrace the chance to showcase your musical theatre talents on camera during these exams, and you'll be taking a crucial step toward success in the digital age.
Familiarity with Drama School Environments
Most performance exams take place within the drama school studios or similar environments. This setting presents an opportunity for young performers to become familiar with the spaces where they may be spending their university days. Getting comfortable with the drama school environment can be a significant advantage. You'll learn how to make the most of the available space, adjust to different acoustics, and develop a sense of belonging within the walls where countless performers have honed their skills.
Understanding the Nature of Grading
It's essential for young musical theatre performers to remember that the grades received in performance exams are not a definitive measure of dedication or talent. These grades are assessments based on specific criteria and are merely one person's opinion. Understand that not receiving a Distinction doesn't diminish your talent or passion. It CERTAINLY doesn’t mean you aren’t meant for the spotlight. It's an opportunity for growth and self-improvement. Use the feedback provided to refine your skills and continue pushing your boundaries as a performer.
There’s no doubt, performance exams are a valuable and enriching experience for young musical theatre performers. They offer a platform for honing your skills, overcoming stage fright, preparing for auditions, familiarizing yourself with drama school environments, and learning to interpret grades constructively. Embrace these opportunities, and remember that your journey to musical theatre excellence is a process of growth, exploration, and self-discovery.
