Acting: Duet
Combine acting, singing, and musical storytelling to bring a character's journey to life.
At a Glance
Participants: 1 student
Time Limit: Up to 5 minutes
Prepare: One selection from a published musical
Accompaniment: Pre-recorded instrumental track
Scenic Elements: Up to one chair
Props: Not permitted
What You'll Prepare
Prepare one selection from a published musical.
Your complete performance may not exceed 5 minutes.
Musical Theatre adjudication is about more than singing well. Your performance should use both acting and vocal technique to communicate character, intention, emotion, and story.
Dialogue may be included when it appears in the published material, but the selection should primarily feature singing.
A solo must be written for a single character. Lyrics from multiple characters may not be combined to create a new solo.
Accompaniment
You must use a pre-recorded instrumental accompaniment track unless your selection was specifically written to be performed a cappella.
Your track:
May not contain lead or background vocals.
Should be downloaded to your device before ThesFest.
Should not depend on Wi-Fi or a streaming service.
TN EDTA will provide a speaker with Bluetooth and AUX connectivity.
Have your track ready to play when you enter the adjudication room. Students are responsible for having their accompaniment ready for playback.
What You May Use
You may use one chair.
You do not have to use a chair.
No additional props, furniture, costumes, or scenic elements may be used.
Selecting Your Material
Your selection must come from a published musical.
Choose a selection that gives you an opportunity to demonstrate acting and storytelling as well as vocal technique.
Songs that are not from a published musical should not be used.
What Adjudicators Look For
Adjudicators will consider:
Characterization: Believable character choices, objectives, emotions, and relationships.
Blocking & Movement: Purposeful physical choices that support the character and storytelling.
Musicianship & Technique: Vocal technique and musical expression used to communicate the character's emotional journey.
Focus & Execution: Commitment, preparation, emotional investment, and clear communication of the character's intentions.
Review the Adjudication Rubric
ThesFest uses the official Thespy Musical Theatre Solo rubric to evaluate this category.
Review the rubric while preparing your performance so you understand the specific skills adjudicators will evaluate.
Before ThesFest
My selection comes from a published musical.
My performance is 5 minutes or less.
I reviewed the official rubric.
I practiced my introduction.
My accompaniment contains no lead or background vocals.
My accompaniment is downloaded and ready to play.
I am not using prohibited props or scenic elements.
I reviewed the ThesFest General Adjudication Rules.