What Type of Dance Is Used in Musical Theatre?

Musical Theatre|Theater

Music and dance go hand in hand, and this is especially true when it comes to musical theatre. Musical theatre combines the power of music with the grace of dance to create a beautiful and captivating form of art.

It has been a popular form of entertainment since the early 20th century, and its popularity continues to this day. So what type of dance is used in musical theatre?

Broadway-style musicals often incorporate a variety of different dance styles, including ballet, tap, jazz, modern, and hip hop. Each style allows for unique choreography that enhances the story being told on stage.

Ballet is often used for its gracefulness and technicality, while tap dancing adds energy and rhythm to a performance. Jazz is a great way to add sass and personality to a number, while modern brings contemporary movements that can make an audience feel something special. Lastly, hip hop has become increasingly popular in musicals due to its ability to showcase complex movements.

It’s not just Broadway-style musicals that use dance either; regional theatres are getting creative with their productions. Regional theatres often combine traditional styles with lesser-known ones like clogging or Irish stepdance. This creates unique opportunities for choreographers to express themselves in new ways.

No matter what type of dance is used, it should be tailored to fit the story being told on stage. Dance should be used as an extension of the script—a way to further develop characters or enhance certain moments in the show. Choreographers must be careful not to rely too heavily on one specific style; instead they must find ways to blend different techniques together.

In conclusion, there are many different types of dance used in musical theatre. From classic Broadway styles like ballet or tap dancing to more modern forms such as hip hop or Irish stepdance, each style brings something special and unique to any production.

Ultimately though, it’s up to choreographers how they choose to use these various forms—the possibilities are endless!