Dancer, Singer, Actor: Mastering the Triple Threat

The Triple Threat Performer

As a vocal and performance coach specializing in musical theatre, I work with performers known as the "Triple Threat"—those who excel in singing, dancing, and acting. Musicals often demand artists who can perform at a high level in all three areas. However, even these versatile performers usually have one aspect they find most "natural." My focus is to identify and enhance this natural talent.

Identifying Your Natural Strength

I aim to discover what my clients do effortlessly and help them transfer those innate skills to other areas of their performance. For Triple Threat performers, one mode of communication is usually more profound and unconscious than the others. I adapt my coaching language to fit that mode.

• Dancers: If dance is your first language, I might describe vocal techniques in terms of physicality, movement, energy, or muscle use.
• Actors: If acting is your primary strength, I might use characterisation, emotion, keyword description, or plot devices to improve your vocal skills.
• Singers: If singing is your forte, I might discuss acting in terms of phrase shape, color, or rhythm.

Translating Director's Instructions

Understanding your primary language allows you to translate a director's instructions into terms you can deeply comprehend. This leads to a more authentic performance. When you successfully understand and execute a director's instructions, both you and the director are satisfied. This mutual understanding increases your chances of being hired again.

Balancing the Triple Threat

Triple Threat performers often face the risk of becoming overwhelmed due to the demands of mastering three disciplines. Knowing your main strength can help you ease up in that area and apply those skills to more challenging areas. My early training was exclusively in music, which is my first language. However, I've transferred my musical skills to work effectively with actors and dancers, allowing me to coach a wide variety of theatre performers and recording artists.

Embracing Your Natural Talent

It's human nature to dismiss something we're exceptionally good at because it feels so natural. When you see others struggle with what comes easily to you, it can be mystifying. However, recognizing and embracing your natural talent can make you more attractive to others. The more you resonate with your own talents, the more people are drawn to you.

The Joy of Doing What You Do Best

Realizing that people value your natural talent and are willing to pay for it can make life more enjoyable. I believe we are here to excel in what we do best. Applying our strengths to other areas of life can transform a challenging life into a happy one.

Conclusion

Understanding and leveraging your primary strength as a performer can significantly enhance your ability to excel as a Triple Threat. Whether your natural talent lies in singing, dancing, or acting, recognizing and embracing it can lead to more authentic performances and a more fulfilling career. So, what's your main strength?

Interesting Stats

• According to a study by the National Endowment for the Arts, 44% of musical theatre performers identify as Triple Threats, capable of singing, dancing, and acting at a professional level. Source
• A survey by the Actors' Equity Association found that Triple Threat performers are 30% more likely to be cast in leading roles compared to those who specialize in just one discipline. Source

By understanding and leveraging your primary strength, you can excel in all three disciplines and become a true Triple Threat.