<p>Hi everyone. I love musical theatre, but I am a poor dancer. I sing and act well, but I have no dance training, and I am just not able to move that well. I know that this will really hold me back in musical theatre, so would you recommend auditioning to be an acting major with a minor in voice? Do you think this would suite my needs better? So far, I am auditioning for Shenandoah (top choice), Pace, and Marymount Manhattan. Any advice for a non-dancer would be GREATLY appreciated.</p>
<p>I was in the same boat as you a short while ago. I, too, am a non-dancer.</p>
<p>If you love musical theater, you should definately study musical theater. If you minor in voice, then you will be classically trained. You probably won't get a lot (if not any) musical theater voice training.</p>
<p>As for schools, most schools are looking for potential. They recognize that you cannot have a "tripple-threat" by the end of high school. Over the next 4 years in college, you will improve drastically in your dancing endeavors, so don't worry about that.</p>
<p>I don't know if this is the case for Pace or Marymount, but I know it isn't for Shenandoah, but a lot of colleges either don't have dance auditions or have them as a "classroom" type thing. If that is the case, then they will be watching for A) potential and B) your attitude and determination. Just go into the dance auditions with a smile, try to do your best, and don't get too frustrated. All-in-all, just have fun; they'll mainly be judging you on your voice/acting audition portion.</p>
<p>BTW, when are you auditioning for Shenandoah? I'm going on Nov 10th. Kinda nervous...</p>
<p>Javert, it also is not too late for you to get some dance training in. Scout around your area to see if any local studios offer drop in classes, or even would allow you to enroll in classes. I would strongly recommend trying to get into a ballet class (for technique) and a jazz class, if possible. You would be surprised at how much you would be able to pick up in a short period of time that would help you feel more confident at auditions. Dance is a big part of musical theater.</p>
<p>Don't give up on your musical theater dreams! A few dance classes will probably help a great deal. Don't be intimidated by the fact that you have no dance training yet. Most dance teachers are thrilled to get more men in their classes -- there are never enough. In fact, several dance schools in my small rural community offer free classes to guys as an incentive. Look around and find a school that will give you some individualized instruction.</p>
<p>In addition, be advised that many schools are much more lenient when evaluating male dancers than they are with females.</p>