Old Time Music Hall / Variety Theatre Performing

The course is run in a workshop style: Under the tutor’s guidance, students learn and rehearse Music Hall or Variety songs and monologues of their choice, accompanied by a professional pianist. Several group numbers are also prepared each term, and a selection of solos and ensemble pieces are presented to the public at the group’s regular performances, which take place on Saturday afternoons at Mary Ward Blackfriars.

By the end of the term students will have gained experience of the following:

1. Performing to an audience.

2. Selecting suitable songs or monologues to build a repertoire.

3. Singing with an accompanist.

4. Understanding stage directions and basic choreography.

5. Putting a costume together.

6. Acquiring knowledge about the fascinating world of Music Hall and Variety Theatre.

Sheet music is available. Students provide their own costumes and props.

Students are expected to learn songs in their own time.

Learning on the course is ongoing, and many members have been attending for years. Some students progress to writing, performing and directing their own shows and others go on to semi-pro and professional engagements.