How Musical Theater builds Lifelong Friendships

25 years ago I performed in a musical and met my best friends. Now known as the "Winning Team" we are all still very close! In fact, most of my best memories and closest friendships came out of the musicals and shows I performed in when I was younger. Musical Theater has changed my life in so many ways.

When I think back at how it changed all of us, I realized that the benefits are plentiful and life lasting. It is such a great opportunity to express yourself, expand your knowledge, and also have a euphoric experience everytime you go on stage.

See, there is nothing quite like the excitement before that curtain opens: all of your friends and families sitting in the audience, your fellow actors and actresses prepping behind the curtains, and the amazing feeling when you walk out on the stage to perform your first musical number.

Taking part in Musical Theater allows you to develop and share your inner talents. It provides a healthy foundation for self-expression through story-telling. And it connects you to other people with lasting effect. With South Coast Conservatory's Musical Theatre camps and Conservatory Intensive this summer, I thought it was the perfect time to write about the 6 benefits of being in musical theater, especially for those of you who will be trying it for the first time.

MAKING FRIENDS

When learning and working alongside individuals with shared interests and goals, you can't help but become closer and build friendships that can last a lifetime.

FEELING A SENSE OF COMMUNITY

Just the act of creating and learning together builds a strong sense of community. This unites us and gives us a sense of belonging that has a positive impact on both physical and mental health.

BUILDING SKILLS TO ACHIEVE GOALS

Being in a Musical demands self-discipline/control from its actors and actresses. Improvisation helps develop quick thinking and problem solving skills. Performing on stage requires concentration and mental focus which is a necessary skill to have in achieving goals in life. Most importantly, musical theater fosters a social awareness through exposure to the social issues, events and cultures that are portrayed in the scripts.

COORDINATION AND MOTOR SKILL DEVELOPMENT

Musical Theatre students who participate in the arts are more likely to develop coordination, spatial awareness, and motor skills than students who do not. These skills are important for many aspects of life, including sports and academic success.

LANGUAGE AND ARTICULATION SKILLS

Through Musical Theatre Programs, musicians and actors develop language and articulation skills. Our program is designed to help students learn how to communicate clearly, expressively, and confidently. We have a curriculum that helps students develop their skills in acting, singing, and dancing and writing musicals.

HAVING FUN

We can't discount the importance and benefits of having fun while learning. When you are having a good time and stress levels are lower, it is EASIER to learn and retain new concepts which help you perform at your optimal level.

No matter your background or experience level, being in a musical will help you develop and hone the skills necessary to achieve success in your social and educational life for years to come!