Royal Academy Expands to Musical Theatre Training

Julia Wagner · 2026-05-12

The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is stepping into new territory, and it's a move that dance professionals across the United States should pay attention to. Known globally for its classical ballet syllabus, RAD is now launching a dedicated musical theatre course that trains students as a 'triple threat' in singing, dancing, and acting. This isn't just a small side project. The new program marks a significant expansion for the institution, which has traditionally focused almost exclusively on ballet. For studio owners and choreographers looking to diversify their offerings, this shift signals a growing demand for versatile performers who can handle multiple disciplines. ### What the 'Triple Threat' Course Offers The course is designed to produce well-rounded performers who are equally comfortable belting out a show tune, executing a jazz square, or delivering a dramatic monologue. RAD is leveraging its reputation for rigorous training standards to create a curriculum that covers all three areas in depth. Key features of the program include: - Intensive training in vocal technique, dance styles (jazz, tap, ballet), and acting for musical theatre - Performance opportunities in full-scale productions - Certification pathways for teachers who want to add musical theatre to their studio offerings This approach mirrors what many successful dance studios in the U.S. are already doing. By offering combo classes that blend dance with voice and acting, studios can attract a wider range of students and increase retention. ### Why This Matters for U.S. Dance Professionals For choreographers and studio owners in the United States, RAD's expansion into musical theatre is a clear signal that the industry is evolving. More and more, students and parents are looking for programs that prepare young performers for the competitive world of professional theatre, not just recitals. > "The days of being just a dancer or just a singer are fading. The industry wants performers who can do it all." This is especially relevant for studios in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, where the demand for triple-threat training is highest. But even in smaller markets, offering a musical theatre track can set your studio apart from competitors who only teach dance. ### How to Adapt Your Studio If you're a dance studio owner or choreographer, here are a few practical steps you can take to capitalize on this trend: - Start by offering a single musical theatre class that combines jazz dance with basic vocal warm-ups - Partner with local voice teachers or acting coaches to bring in expertise without hiring full-time staff - Use RAD's new course as a model for creating your own certification or workshop series - Market your program as "triple threat training" to attract students who aspire to Broadway or touring shows The key is to start small and build. You don't need a massive production right away. Even a monthly workshop can generate buzz and help you gauge interest. ### The Bottom Line RAD's move into musical theatre is more than just a news headline. It's a validation of what many dance professionals have known for years: the future of performance training is interdisciplinary. By expanding your studio's offerings to include singing and acting, you're not just keeping up with the times. You're giving your students the skills they need to succeed in a competitive industry. So take a cue from the Royal Academy of Dance. Look at your current curriculum and ask yourself: how can I make my students more versatile? The answer might just be the key to growing your studio in 2025 and beyond.