Acting in Musical Theatre

About the Book

Endorsements

“This is the book we have all been waiting for! Every actor needs a guide to help solve the complex array of puzzles that emerge when we begin to dissect a lyric, a song, or a complete role in a musical. And here it is. Written in an engaging generous style, and full of examples and exercises, this book makes the textured work involved in the technique of acting in a musical more of a game and exploration than a chore. Whether for the beginner or the experienced professional, the student or the teacher, the fan or the critic, this text is a must-have and a must-read.”

“Though I attended a highly respected drama department for six years (two degrees), there was never a single course offered having anything to do with musical theatre. Therefore, I am all the more impressed by Acting in Musical Theatre, which gives a comprehensive and thought-provoking guideline to the study of performing on the musical stage. I found it fascinating and functional, and I am sure you will, as well.”

“Finally! Joe Deer and Rocco Dal Vera have given us a clear and articulate method for acting in musical theatre! In much the same way that Maslon and Kantor's recent film/book on the American Musical Theatre History has brought together so many stories and facts about this American art form and tradition, Deer and Dal Vera have de-mystified with articulate clarity a fully internalized, assimilated, and yet somehow flexible approach to the actual method of rehearsing, performing, and auditioning for the musical theatre.

The method for acting in a musical has finally arrived! After many fruitful years of using various approaches from various texts, and, in more recent years as we have begun to compare notes on the subject, Joe Deer and Rocco Dal Vera have given those of us who learn and/or teach musical theatre an extensive text on the subject — and one that can be used in any setting. Thanks, guys! We've been waiting for this book for ‘many a new day!’

Joe Deer and Rocco Dal Vera present a beautifully articulate and no-nonsense approach to musical theatre acting. From the fundamentals of acting in musical theatre, through a sound unearthing of an easy-to-use analysis and structure for the score and libretto, all the way to how to maintain a ‘winning attitude’ about oneself and their craft — Deer and Dal Vera have said it all (and then some) in this gift of a text for musical theatre. This book is a must have!

I can guarantee you that this book will become an integral part of our acting life here at Webster.”

“At last a book that assists us in guiding our students to inhabit characters in musicals organically! A major milestone in musical theatre pedagogy.”

“Acting in Musical Theatre covers it all – acting, musical terminology, style and auditions. It is a must-have resource for all teachers and students of performing in musical theatre.”

“With clearly delineated chapters and units, Deer and Dal Vera break down the complex terrain of musical theatre into digestible bits. Whether you are a fledgling musical theatre artist or a seasoned professional, this book offers an array of insights, suggestions, guideposts and exercises which you will find invaluable.”

“I'm sure this book will be a valuable resource in nurturing the development of many actors — I hope I'll meet them dancing down the street, snapping their fingers and singing at the top of their lungs, on their way to some universal, human truth.”

“A lively, engaging read that, as a comprehensive guide to acting in musicals, in many ways fills a heretofore empty niche. The authors do not patronize, but help the student focus on those aspects of the profession under his or her control.”

“A great handbook for the serious student, giving relevant information for all stages of development.

• Skip to navigation
• Skip to content
• Skip to search

Book Information

• About the Book
• Table of Contents
• About the Authors
• Endorsements
• Sample Pages