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MUSICAL THEATRE PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The CCCEPA Musical Theatre Department offers an immersive, comprehensive training program focused on instruction, performance, and pedagogy. This program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career as a musical theatre performer. Students are introduced to a wide range of techniques to develop their vocal, physical, and acting abilities. In addition, they study musical theatre history, musicianship, repertoire, and auditioning. Guest artists are regularly invited to conduct special master classes with students.

At the core of our teaching philosophy, we believe in preparing students not only for careers in the arts but also for success in any field by instilling a strong work ethic, professionalism, communication skills, and collaborative qualities.

Learning Outcomes
The CCCEPA Musical Theatre program aims for students to be proficient in the following areas:

  • Strengthened vocal ability, music reading skills, dance techniques, and acting.
  • An expanded musical theatre repertoire.
  • The ability to connect text and musical analysis to performance.
  • Mastery of auditioning and performance techniques.
  • A comprehensive understanding of musical theatre history and tradition.
  • Proficiency in a wide range of vocal styles required for musical theatre.
  • Competency in musicianship, music theory, IPA and basic piano skills.
  • Proficiency in various dance techniques and genres.
  • The ability to act through song with intention and clarity.
  • A professional standard for marketing oneself, particularly in terms of headshots, resumes, and websites.

ADVANCEMENT IN THE PROGRAM
The program offers six levels of Musical Theatre classes, each offering a unique yet cohesive curriculum:

  • Musical Theatre II
  • Musical Theatre III
  • Musical Theatre IV
  • Advanced Drama II
  • Advanced Drama III
  • Advanced Drama IV

ADDITIONAL COURSE REQUIREMENTS
In addition to the core musical theatre classes, students are required to complete at least six additional credits in dance, vocal music, or drama, or a combination of these areas, to supplement their musical theatre training.

MATERIALS NEEDED FOR CLASS

  • Pencils
  • Highlighters
  • One binder to serve as the student’s “Book”
  • Clear plastic sheet protectors
  • Five dividers
  • Post-It arrow flags
  • Recording device
  • A positive attitude and a willingness to learn

WARDROBE REQUIREMENTS

  • Females:
    • Black, low-heeled, split-sole, slip-on jazz shoes
    • Black leotard with CCCEPA logo
    • Full black tights (convertible)
    • Black bike shorts with CCCEPA logo
    • Tan, 2-inch character shoes
    • Jazz pants required for concerts
    • Proper underwear required; black or skin-toned bra straps allowed (no other colors)
  • Males:
    • Black, split-sole, slip-on jazz shoes
    • Black socks
    • Black tee or tank top with CCCEPA logo
    • Black bike shorts with CCCEPA logo
    • Jazz pants required for concerts
    • Dance belt required
  • All Students:
    • Tap shoes

REHEARSAL & PERFORMANCE ETIQUETTE
Students earn points daily based on rehearsal and performance etiquette. This includes being prepared for class with the necessary materials (e.g., folder, pencil, music), being punctual, and adhering to class procedures. Points may be deducted for:

  • Not having materials (e.g., music, portfolio, pencil)
  • Not being in the seat on time
  • Chewing gum, eating, or drinking anything other than water during rehearsal

CCCEPA MUSICAL THEATRE RULES OF ENGAGEMENT

As Music Theatre Majors and Minors, we agree to abide by the following:

  • To always respect the space.
  • Cell phones stored away whenever occupying our space. No cell phone use.
  • Please show respect to the teachers by not talking whenever they are speaking and/or teaching.
  • Words like “can’t”, “won’t” along with their derivatives and variations are prohibited. Negativity in ANY FORM is also prohibited within the rehearsal space.
  • Inspire others with your example.
  • Be responsible for and be aware of the energy you bring into the rehearsal space.
  • Have an accepting, supportive, and respectful attitude towards others.
  • Know that it is okay to make mistakes in front of others.
  • Be encouraging and helpful toward others.
  • Respect people’s boundaries and personal space.
  • Respect others when they are talking, sharing and/or presenting.
  • Be supportive always; everyone comes with different life experience and training; our rehearsal spaces are judgement free.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

  • Classes will include exercises, lectures, master class demonstrations, rehearsals, and performances.
  • Students must remain fully focused throughout each class session.
  • Attendance and participation are mandatory; students who miss class cannot participate in after-school rehearsals.
  • We will focus on the work at hand, and students should set aside other academic assignments while in class.
  • Students should always be respectful during instruction and give their full attention to the teacher and fellow classmates.

GRADES
Class performances are graded using a rubric that evaluates acting, voice, movement, and preparation. In addition to class performances, students will receive a daily “Engagement/Discussion” grade, awarded on a scale of 10 points per day. This grade is entered into the grade book every two weeks (for a total of 100 points per period). Students can recover points for missed class time by completing make-up work (please speak with the instructor for specific tasks).

JURY EVALUATIONS
The jury is a comprehensive performance and knowledge-based evaluation. All Majors and Minors will complete a jury near the end of each semester. Juries typically include a prepared monologue, a song excerpt from the musical theatre genre, a demonstration of IPA, sight-reading, and music theory concepts. The jury contributes to the final semester grade and may play a role in determining class placement for the following year.

AFTER-SCHOOL & WEEKEND COMMITMENTS
Performances and rehearsals before and after school, as well as on weekends, are integral to the program. Students are expected to attend all scheduled rehearsals and performances. Extra rehearsals and performances will be announced at least two weeks in advance to allow students to make arrangements. Absences from performances are excused only in cases of unavoidable conflict, such as illness or a death in the family. Prior commitments or family events are not valid excuses and may result in the forfeiture of points.

EXTRACURRICULAR PERFORMANCES
Each year, the CCCEPA Performing Arts Department presents at least two full-scale musical productions. All Pebblebrook High School students are eligible to audition. We aim to select challenging and relevant works that represent a wide range of cultures and experiences. Some advanced classes may also culminate in class performances outside of regular school hours.

COLLEGE PREPARATION
We assist students who plan to continue their musical theatre training at the collegiate level by offering guidance in selecting audition material, providing free coaching before and after school, and offering prescreen video recording services.

PRIVATE LESSONS
Private lessons are encouraged but not required. These lessons provide individualized instruction tailored to the student’s specific needs and skill level. There are many great resources for finding affordable private instruction. Students are encouraged to consult with their teachers for specific details and recommendations.

ADDITIONAL PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES
Students are encouraged to seek out extracurricular music-making opportunities outside of the classroom, provided these activities do not conflict with their CCCEPA commitments.

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