Sure, we theatre people don’t always say it or even realize it, but when it comes to the classic theatre versus musical theatre debate, we all have an opinion. Some view musical theatre as overly-simplified fluff while others view theatre as just a less-exciting version of musical theatre. If you’re still on the fence about where you stand in this age-old debate, this quiz should help determine what side you fall under.

Do you have strong singer and dancing abilities?

1. Yes
2. No

Do you consider yourself a better singer or dancer than actor?

1. Yes
2. No

Agree or disagree: It is ok for theatre to be “fluffy” material without a lot of deep meaning.

1. Agree
2. Disagree

Do you find more success auditioning for musicals or plays?

1. Musicals
2. Plays

Do you only audition for the school musical, or do you audition for other productions as well?

1. Musical only
2. Other productions too

Do you skip out on auditioning for the musical but audition for other shows?

1. No
2. Yes

True or False: You have at least 5 Original Broadway Cast Recordings (OBCRs) on your phone.

1. True
2. False

Agree or disagree: Acting is the most important element of theatre.

1. Disagree
2. Agree

Have you been in a musical before?

1. Yes
2. No

Do you prefer watching plays or musicals?

1. Musicals
2. Plays

True or False: You can name 3 Broadway plays (not musicals) off the top of your head.

1. False
2. True

If you answered mostly A’s: You are musical theatre for sure! You can’t resist singing along when you hear “Heathers,” “Rent,” or “Hamilton.”

Pros: Musical theatre is in higher demand than theatre is. Your likelihood of finding fame and fortune is much higher in musical theatre.

Cons: There is more competition in musical theatre since more people pursue it. Musical theatre actors are stereotypically thought of as more shallow actors, so acting snobs may look down their nose at you. But if you work hard to perfect every element of your craft, you can surely prove them wrong.

If you answered mostly B’s: You are definitely a theatre person! You prefer theatre with purely acting, no singing or dancing involved, just raw drama and comedy on a stage.

Pros: Theatre is often viewed as more dignified than musical theatre. Also, fewer people try to do purely theatre with no musicals involved, so your likelihood of getting a job is better.

Cons: Actors who do pure theatre often get less recognition and fame than those who do musical theatre. Also, the art of pure theatre is often pushed aside in favor of musicals since it is not as popular. However, if you work hard, you just might be able to make straight-up theatre your thing.