Here is a basic acting textbook written especially for singers, actors, and dancers who want to work in musical theater but have little or no experience in the area. "Performing in Musicals" provides novice performers with the information they need to audition, prepare a role, rehearse, and play the part. Taking a practical, systematic approach, Elaine Novak discusses virtually every aspect of musical theater: its history and development, basic elements (book, lyrics, score, and dances), production, stage movement, voice and diction, acting techniques, creating a character, rehearsal and performance behavior, auditioning, developing performance skills, and much more. Includes: 16 Scenes (10 with songs including piano parts and lyrics) from well-known musicals (Brigadoon, Kiss Me Kate, South Pacific, Gypsy, Fiddler on the Roof, Cabaret & 1776) * Application of Stanislavski System to Musicals * Preparing a Role (including songs & dances), fundamentals of stage and comedy techniques, & auditioning * Numerous Exercises for body, voice, imagination, observation, concentration, for musical performance * photos & line drawings * glossary of stage and musical terms