Musical Theatre at SMU
The Sexton Institute for Musical Theatre
The Sexton Institute for Musical Theatre at SMU Meadows School of the Arts offers a premier training ground for the next generation of musical theatre artists. With a curriculum that blends rigorous acting, singing, and movement training with a deep exploration of the evolving musical theatre landscape, students receive unparalleled preparation for professional careers. Guided by world-class faculty and industry mentors, our students develop the skills, artistry, and connections to thrive on Broadway, in regional theatre and beyond.
Curriculum Highlights
Performance Opportunities
Musical theatre students have a wide range of performance experiences, from intimate cabarets and workshops to large-scale mainstage productions beginning in their junior year.
Conservatory-Style Training with Liberal Arts Excellence
Students build a strong foundation in acting, voice, movement and musicianship through hands-on instruction, while benefiting from a well-rounded academic education at SMU, a research-driven liberal arts institution.
Masterclasses and Special Lectures
The Sexton Institute regularly welcomes guest artists, Broadway performers and industry leaders for exclusive masterclasses, lectures and residencies. These experiences provide invaluable insights and networking opportunities.
Local Collaborations
Students at the Sexton Institute benefit from DFW’s vibrant theatre scene, with opportunities to work directly with professional companies like Theatre Three and the Tony Award-winning Dallas Theater Center.
Faculty in the Field
Many of our faculty actively perform in the region, giving students the unique chance to see their professors on stage and even occasionally perform alongside them, gaining valuable real-world experience and building industry connections before they graduate.
Alumni Connections
With an extensive alumni network spanning Broadway, national tours, and regional theatres, Sexton Institute students gain direct access to mentorship, networking and career guidance from accomplished professionals.
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SMU Presents "Ragtime"
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Join the next generation of performers at the Sexton Institute for Musical Theatre. Explore application requirements, audition expectations and important deadlines to begin the process.
