Finding the Feeling: Acting Through Song in Junior Musical Theatre
This term, our Junior Musical Theatre students have been diving into one of the most exciting parts of performing: acting through song!
Singing is more than just hitting the right notes, it's about telling a story. Whether you're singing about a big dream, a broken heart, or the best day ever, the emotion behind the song is what really connects with the audience.
That’s why learning to act while singing is such a big part of what we teach in our junior classes. It helps our young performers understand their character, build confidence, and bring each song to life in their own unique way.
Why Acting Through Song Matters
For young performers, learning to express emotions while singing helps with:
🎭 Character building – Who are you when you sing this song? What are you feeling?
💬 Storytelling – Every lyric has meaning. Acting helps you show it!
😃 Confidence – Getting into character can help even shy students feel brave.
💓 Connection – When performers feel the song, the audience feels it too.
We’ve seen our students grow week by week, getting bolder, braver, and more expressive with every rehearsal. And best of all? They’re having fun while they do it!
Top Tips for 7–11 Year Olds Learning to Act Through Song:
🎶 1. Know what you're singing about
Before you start singing, talk about what the lyrics mean. Who is the character? What’s happening in the song?
🎭 2. Pick an emotion
Is your character excited, nervous, proud, or sad? Choose one feeling to focus on, and show it with your face and body.
👀 3. Use your eyes
Eyes are powerful! Think about where you’re looking and what your eyes are saying, just like in acting scenes.
🧍♀️ 4. Stand like your character
Try standing or moving the way your character might. A proud character stands tall, while a shy one might look down or shuffle.
🪞 5. Practise in the mirror
Watch yourself perform in the mirror. Can you see the emotion? If not, try again with more expression!
❤️ 6. Don’t be afraid to feel silly
The best performers are the ones who take risks. It’s okay to be a little silly, that’s where the magic happens!
We’re so proud of how much our juniors are growing as storytellers through song. With each class, they’re learning that the best performances come not just from their voice, but from their heart.
