So You Want To Be In Musicals?

An honest, inspiring and deeply practical insider’s guide to building — and sustaining — a successful career in musical theatre.

West End and Broadway star Ruthie Henshall shares the essential skills, strategies and mindset needed to thrive in one of the toughest and most rewarding areas of performance.

About the Ebook

So You Want To Be In Musicals? is a comprehensive, candid and empowering guide for anyone dreaming of a career in musical theatre. Drawing on decades of experience on both the West End and Broadway, Ruthie Henshall — with contributions from musical director Daniel Bowling — offers clear, practical advice on every stage of the journey.

Competition is fierce, the demands are high, and the path can feel uncertain. This book demystifies the process, giving performers the tools, mindset and insider knowledge needed to succeed.

Inside, you’ll learn about:

• Training — choosing a drama school, preparing for entry, and thriving once you’re there
• Auditioning — selecting material, preparing effectively, and developing a positive audition mindset
• Rehearsing — building character, working with directors, and shaping your creative process
• Performing — managing nerves, understudying, and sustaining eight shows a week
• Working — finding an agent, marketing yourself, and maintaining physical and mental wellbeing

Alongside practical guidance, the book is filled with instructive, entertaining and often moving anecdotes from Ruthie’s own glittering career — offering a rare, behind‑the‑scenes look at life in musical theatre.

Critical Praise

"A god‑send... I wish this book had been around when I was at drama school — it actually gives you great advice on what to do and the attitude to take if you want to make it in this glamorous business known as show... an excellent read from cover to cover."
— Musical Theatre Review

"A comprehensive and cogent insight into the world Ruthie Henshall knows inside out... invaluable advice on training, auditioning and how to conduct yourself in rehearsals once you've landed the job."
— The Stage

"A must for fans and aspiring performers alike."
— BroadwayWorld

"Helpful and informative."
— British Theatre Guide

Why You'll Love This Ebook

• A complete roadmap to building a career in musical theatre.
• Practical, honest advice from a major West End and Broadway star.
• Dozens of real‑world insights drawn from professional experience.
• Perfect for students, graduates and emerging performers.
• A Nick Hern Books essential for anyone serious about musical theatre.

About the Authors

Ruthie Henshall is an Olivier Award‑winning performer whose career spans more than 25 years on both the West End and Broadway. Her credits include leading roles in Chicago, Les Misérables, Crazy for You, Miss Saigon and She Loves Me. She is widely regarded as one of the finest musical‑theatre performers of her generation.

Daniel Bowling is a musical director, supervisor and vocal coach with extensive international experience. He has worked on major productions across the UK and the US, bringing deep expertise in musical‑theatre performance and training.

Publication Details

Publisher: Nick Hern Books

Publication Date: 8 November 2012

Print Length: 208 pages

ISBN (Ebook): 9781780011820

Format: Ebook

Language: English

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