What is a Musical Reading?

Question:When a new musical is being made they have a reading for it. I was wondering what happens at these readings and what they are for...

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: When a new musical is being made they have a reading for it. I was wondering what happens at these readings and what they are for...

Actually, Maria, you're wrong.

A reading is a sort of simple tryout for a new musical. Usually with actors in chairs on a small stage or in a rehearsal studio, often standing up at music stands when they are in a scene. Sort of a "barely staged" read/sing of the show with music stands with scripts in their hands. A "Staged Reading" goes a step further, it is semi-staged, but scripts are still carried.

This helps the authors and producers (or whoever) hear what the musical sounds like "out loud." Sometimes it is done for a room full of investors, to try to get people interested in putting money into the show.

Actors are usually either not paid, or are paid minimum scale to participate in readings. Frequently, the composer plays the piano. Often, the actors doing the reading are not the actors that will ultimately play the roles. Usually, in Broadway terms, if an actor gives their time to participate in an early reading of a musical or play, it is a sort of "hint" that they may be interested in doing the role in a full production.

For instance, Emily Skinner was in one of the readings of "The Little Mermaid," but is not in the full production.

Well exactly what it sounds like the cast gets to gether and reads (and sings) through the libretto with the press and small audience.