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Dance and Music Theater student on stage

Dance & Musical Theatre BA

Study of dance, acting, and singing for performance, combining technical training with creative development to prepare for careers in musical theatre and the wider performing arts industry.

Is this for you?

This degree could suit you if you:

  • Enjoy dancing and performing

  • Are interested in musical theatre

  • Like physical and creative work

  • Want a career in performance

  • Are disciplined and motivated

Popular Career Fields

Theatre & Performing Arts

Education

Events & Entertainment

Arts & Culture

Your Personality Might Be:

Triple-threat performer

Education

Collaborative artist

Resilient personality

What is it?

What is Dance & Musical Theatre?

Dance & Musical Theatre is a performance-based degree that integrates dance, acting, and vocal training to develop versatile performers.


You’ll train in a range of dance styles (such as jazz, ballet, contemporary, and commercial), alongside acting techniques and singing, while learning how to perform confidently in musical theatre productions.


The degree balances intensive practical training with creative exploration and professional preparation.


It is ideal for students who want to pursue careers as performers in theatre, musical theatre, film, television, or live entertainment.


Why study Dance & Musical Theatre?

If you love performing and want structured, professional training across multiple disciplines, this degree offers a focused and immersive pathway.


It helps you:

  • Develop strong technical skills in dance, acting, and voice

  • Build confidence as a live performer

  • Understand rehearsal, audition, and production processes

  • Explore character, storytelling, and movement

  • Prepare for the realities of the professional performing arts industry

Dance & Musical Theatre degrees are highly practical and performance-driven.

Skillful dance students performing in the dark room under the concert light and smoke.

Course Summary

Study of dance, acting, and singing for performance, combining technical training with creative development.

What you'll study

Most Dance & Musical Theatre degrees cover:


  • Dance technique (jazz, ballet, contemporary, commercial styles)

  • Musical theatre performance and repertoire

  • Acting techniques for stage and screen

  • Vocal training and ensemble singing

  • Choreography and movement for performance

  • Professional practice and audition skills

Explore More Courses

Skills You'll Gain

A Dance & Musical Theatre degree builds creative and practical skills including:

Dance, acting, and vocal performance skills – enabling you to perform confidently across disciplines.


Stage presence and storytelling – supporting expressive and engaging performance.


Stage presence and storytelling – supporting expressive and engaging performance.


Collaboration and ensemble work – essential for rehearsals and productions.


Professional awareness and resilience – equipping you for auditions and freelance careers.

Explore Uni Open Days

Open Day Calendar

Pathways, Placements and Work Experience

CAREERS

Career Pathways

Dance & Musical Theatre degrees focus heavily on performance-based experience.


While formal placements are less common, courses provide extensive industry-facing opportunities, including:

  • Public productions and touring performances

  • Industry showcases attended by casting directors and agents

  • Workshops with professional performers and choreographers

  • Audition preparation and mock auditions

  • Community outreach, education, or youth theatre projects

Some students also gain experience through paid or unpaid work in theatre, cruise ships, theme parks, or commercial dance during holidays.

Work Experiences & Placements

Dance & Musical Theatre degrees focus heavily on performance-based experience.


While formal placements are less common, courses provide extensive industry-facing opportunities, including:

  • Public productions and touring performances

  • Industry showcases attended by casting directors and agents

  • Workshops with professional performers and choreographers

  • Audition preparation and mock auditions

  • Community outreach, education, or youth theatre projects

Some students also gain experience through paid or unpaid work in theatre, cruise ships, theme parks, or commercial dance during holidays.

Salary Profile

Coming soon

Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?

AM I ELIGIBLE?

Entry Requirements

A-levels or equivalent. Most universities and dance schools accept a broad range of subjects. Dance, Drama, Music, or Performing Arts are beneficial but not always required.

Personal Statement Tips

  • Explain your passion for dance, musical theatre, and performance.

  • Mention relevant training, classes, or performance experience.

  • Reflect on what draws you to musical theatre as an art form.

  • Highlight commitment, discipline, and willingness to train intensively.

What to do Next

  • Research audition requirements and prepare material early.

  • Take regular dance, acting, and singing classes.

  • Attend live theatre and musical productions.

  • Gain performance experience through youth theatre or amateur productions.

Uni student

Not sure what to study?

Alternatives to Degrees

Internships
Short Courses
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships

Wider Reading


  • The Actor and the Target – Declan Donnellan
    A practical guide to acting and performance mindset.

  • Dance Anatomy – Jacqui Greene Haas
    Essential reading for understanding the physical demands of dance.

  • True and False – David Mamet
    A provocative look at acting technique and performance truth.

  • The Musical Theatre Audition Book – Various authors
    A practical resource for preparing audition material.

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