Is anyone familiar with Musical Theatre singing exams?

[Dancergirl]

Dd is taking Grade 1 Musical Theatre next week. It's not ABRSM with which I'm familiar, I think the exams are set by the Royal College of Music.

She has to sing 2 songs with actions/expression etc. What's worrying me is the props, can anyone advise me what she should have? She is singing Bibbity-Bobbitee-Boo from Cinderella and a song from The Little Mermaid.

So I assume she'll need props/costume for both? What does she wear underneath?

[PandaNot]

Has her teacher not said what she needs?

[nonicknameseemsavailable]

I would also expect her teacher to have told you or to provide it. When I did my acting exams I remember having to dress up for the actual acting exams (compared to speech and drama exams where we didn't dress up) and remember using a chair as an oven for one exam but the teacher sorted that out and just said 'you will need a summer dress for being Dorothy' or whatever.

[Dancergirl]

She did mention something about a wand and tutu skirt for the Cinderella one but it was all a bit vague.

[cathyandclaire]

My DDs have gone through all the MT exams with the London College of Music.
She will have to change the costume herself, in front of the examiner so it's wise to make the change as quick and uncomplicated as possible, particularly if she's young.
Bibbity bobbity boo is the Fairy Godmother so net skirt/tutu and wand +/_ tiara, is perfect.
Little mermaid depends on the part... If it's part of your world then she could take off the tutu and slip on mermaidish long skirt/ or be wearing silvery blue leggings underneath ( same top) maybe a shell necklace, and could sit on the floor in a mermaidish fashion with props of a jewellery box with costume jewellery and a hairbrush?
Good luck!

[Dancergirl]

Thanks candc that's really helpful. Maybe it is London College of Music....

Dd says it is Part of your World so I'll gather some mermaid-y type bits!

[JulieMichelleRobinson]

//The use of costume and props is encouraged, and credit will be given for this where the effect of the performance and
characterisation is enhanced.
An ‘impression’ of costume (eg. a hat, shawl, jacket, etc) is expected as an aid to performance. Full costume, although
not a requirement of the examination, is perfectly acceptable if the candidate wishes. Where costume is not employed,
comfortable, non-restrictive clothing (e.g. rehearsal ‘blacks’ or performance dress) is suggested. Appropriate footwear
(shoes, dance/jazz boots, not trainers) should be worn.
Any costume changes must be such that they can be made quickly, in the examination room, in the presence of the
examiner. Alternatively, a screen may be used as long as it does not interfere with the space, though this facility may
not be provided at every venue, and candidates are advised to make appropriate arrangements with the local
representative. Costume change times must be included in the length of the programme as detailed for each grade. All
candidates must manage changes unaided. Candidates must not leave the examination room between songs.//



www.uwl.ac.uk/sites/default/files/Academic-schools/London-College-of-Music/Web/LCM-Exams/PDF/Subjects/Singing/music_theatre_2013.pdf

[Picturesinthefirelight]

Dd is doing Grade 4. She's just going to use accessories (she's used to lamda acting exams where costume is not allowed.

So a shawl for the music hall song, sailor neckerchief for Honey Bun & I can't remember her other sings. She's a dancer do has choreographed a few simple actions for Honey Bun.

[angelinterceptor]

My DD took one of these exams when she was 8.
She has now moved schools and doesn't have time for the MT class.

She took costumes she could change easily and wear over shorts/ vest for speed and modesty when changing.

Agree they have to do it themselves you can't go into the room to help them out.

There is also a chat and easy questions about the song choices and / or the show or movie they are from.