Middle school is a time of transition and growth, and for many students, it’s the first time they’ll have the opportunity to participate in a musical. With so many great shows to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you find the perfect middle school musical for your group.
What to Consider When Choosing a Middle School Musical
There are a few things you’ll want to consider when choosing a middle school musical, including:
- The size of your cast. Some musicals are written for small casts, while others can accommodate larger groups. Make sure you choose a show that has enough roles for all of your students.
- The difficulty level of the music and choreography. You’ll want to choose a show that is challenging enough to keep your students engaged, but not so difficult that they get discouraged.
- The theme of the show. Some musicals are more lighthearted and fun, while others deal with more serious topics. Choose a show that aligns with the values and interests of your group.
- The cost of the show. Some musicals require expensive sets and costumes, while others can be produced on a more modest budget. Make sure you factor in the cost of the show when making your decision.
Popular Middle School Musicals
Once you’ve considered the factors above, you can start narrowing down your choices. Here are a few of the most popular middle school musicals:
- The Sound of Music
- Annie
- The Wizard of Oz
- Grease
- The Music Man
- Oklahoma!
- Bye Bye Birdie
- Hairspray
- High School Musical
- Frozen Jr.
Tips for Choosing a Middle School Musical
Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect middle school musical for your group:
- Read the script. This is the best way to get a sense of the show’s plot, characters, and themes.
- Listen to the music. This will help you determine if the music is appropriate for your students’ voices and abilities.
- Watch a performance. If possible, watch a performance of the show before you make your decision. This will give you a good idea of what the show looks and sounds like on stage.
- Ask your students for their input. They’re the ones who will be performing the show, so it’s important to get their feedback.
Benefits of Participating in a Middle School Musical
Participating in a middle school musical has many benefits for students, including:
- Developing their creativity and imagination.
- Improving their communication and teamwork skills.
- Boosting their confidence and self-esteem.
- Learning about different cultures and traditions.
- Having a lot of fun!
Conclusion
Choosing the right middle school musical is an important decision. By following the tips in this guide, you can find a show that your students will love to perform and that will provide them with a valuable learning experience.
Additional Resources
- The Educational Theatre Association
- The American Alliance for Theatre & Education
- The International Thespian Society
Tables
| Musical | Cast Size | Difficulty Level | Theme | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Sound of Music | 16-24 | Easy | Family, love, music | Moderate |
| Annie | 10-16 | Easy | Poverty, hope, optimism | Low |
| The Wizard of Oz | 12-18 | Easy | Courage, friendship, adventure | Moderate |
| Grease | 10-16 | Easy | Love, peer pressure, the 1950s | Low |
| The Music Man | 12-20 | Moderate | American values, family, music | Moderate |
| Oklahoma! | 12-20 | Moderate | Love, family, the American West | Moderate |
| Bye Bye Birdie | 10-16 | Easy | The 1960s, pop music, teen culture | Low |
| Hairspray | 12-20 | Moderate | Body image, racism, social justice | Moderate |
| High School Musical | 10-16 | Easy | Love, friendship, high school | Low |
| Frozen Jr. | 12-18 | Easy | Love, family, friendship | Moderate |
Effective Strategies
- Involve your students in the decision-making process. Let them help choose the show, design the sets, and create the costumes.
- Create a positive and supportive environment. Make sure your students feel comfortable taking risks and expressing themselves.
- Set clear expectations and goals. Help your students understand what you expect from them and what they can expect from you.
- Provide regular feedback. Let your students know what they’re doing well and what they need to improve on.
- Celebrate your students’ successes. Make sure to acknowledge your students’ hard work and achievements.
Tips and Tricks
- Use a variety of teaching methods. Incorporate singing, dancing, acting, and music theory into your rehearsals.
- Make it fun! Keep your rehearsals upbeat and engaging.
- Collaborate with other teachers. Ask your colleagues for help with set design, costumes, or choreography.
- Get parents involved. Ask parents to volunteer their time to help with rehearsals, performances, or fundraising.
- Have a dress rehearsal. This is a great way to practice the show in full and make any necessary adjustments.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Educational benefits: Students develop their creativity, imagination, communication skills, teamwork skills, and confidence.
- Social benefits: Students make new friends and learn how to work together.
- Fun: Students have a lot of fun performing in a musical.
Cons:
- Time commitment: Rehearsals and performances can take up a lot of time.
- Cost: Producing a musical can be expensive.
- Stress: Students may experience stress during rehearsals and performances.
Conclusion
Middle school musicals are a great way for students to learn about the arts, develop their skills, and have fun. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can help your students have a positive and successful experience.