Bloomsbury Find Your 'It' Factor: A Guide to Dynamic Musical Theatre Performance

Have you ever sat in a darkened theatre and not been able to take your eyes off one radiant performer as they drew you into their real yet imaginary world? If so, you were experiencing synergy, also known as the 'It' factor; that magical, ephemeral energy that has defied explanation - until now. Find Your 'It' Factor is an informative handbook for anyone seeking to explore their personal light or re-ignite their inner flame, onstage or off. Explored through musical theatre performance, this guide combines original research with practical application which in turn helps you understand the essential elements that make up the 'It' factor, elevating your performance beyond the ordinary. Drawing on years of practical experience within the professional world of musical theatre in the UK and Australia, Jacqui Hall Cuny introduces and unpacks the concept of 'It' in relation to performance. Using theory and primary research, she asks: what does it mean to have 'It'?; can 'It' be learned and commanded at will?; what can advance 'It' and what shuts it down?; and how can we use 'It' in our everyday lives? Featuring a foreword by Philip Quast and interviews from 42 Australian musical theatre actors and creative directors this is a unique and engaging must-have for those entering the industry. Whether you are a professional performer seeking to grow your existing skill base or a student seeking the confidence to express yourself freely, this book unlocks secrets to ensure you succeed. This book is accompanied by a companion website with videos of techniques and exercises used in the book.