General Dance Tips For All Performers
For all children and teens auditioning for any musical theatre show there are certain things one must always remember. First, you must always take into consideration the show you are auditioning for. Some shows lend themselves to be predominately stronger in one area of dance. For example, 42nd Street is very strong in tap; where as A Chorus Line is equally strong in traditional jazz. Depending upon the season, The Muny is looking for different types of dancers.

Furthermore, it is important to consider that musical theatre dance is heavily based upon traditional styles of ballet, tap, and jazz. Although Hip Hop and Rhythm Tap are fun and exciting forms of dance, one must remember that there are very few musicals (Rent & Bring in 'Da Noise, Bring in 'Da Funk) which require strong backgrounds in these areas. Training in the more traditional styles of ballet, tap, and jazz are going to be much more productive for a musical theatre performer.

For Children before teen years
A basic understanding of traditional ballet, tap, and jazz are important for children auditioning for The Muny. Most children do take dance lessons, however it is not a requirement. An emphasis on movement as a whole is just as important.

For Teens
A more developed sense of traditional dance is very important for the teen auditioning for The Muny. Most teens chosen for The Muny are also very involved in dance studios, voice lessons, choirs and choruses, as well as community and high school theatre.

Techniques And Vocabulary
Again depending upon the season, The Muny is looking for different aspects of dance. Teens who audition should have a basic understanding of the below:

Ballet
7 Basic Movements of Ballet (i.e. plié, relevé, etc)
The Positions of the feet and arms
Balancé
Glissade
Jeté
Changement
Pas de Boureé
Pirouette

Tap
Single & Double Standard Time Steps
Traveling Time Steps
Buffalos
Front & Back Essence
** all performed with/to music

Jazz
Lindy
Suzy Q
Kick Ball Change
Kimbo
Jazz Pirouette