THE MTCA EXPERIENCE

We raise the curtain on the festival at the MTCA Opening Celebration. Meet the MTCA Adjudication and Creative Teams and watch The Road to MTCA 2026, a dynamic video showcasing groups rehearsing and preparing for their moment in the spotlight.

Group categories include Musical Production, Medley, and Showtune. Individual categories include Solo, Duet, Monologue, Musical Theatre Dance, Costume Design, Make-Up & Hair Design, and Set Design.

Every performer and every group receives immediate coaching right after they perform. The MTCA Creative Team delivers focused, constructive feedback on the spot, helping students leave the stage more confident, more skilled, and ready for their next opportunity.

Multiple Masterclasses are offered throughout the festival weekend. Past classes include: Stage Combat, Fosse Dance, Audition Prep, Scars and Bruises Design, The Language of Sondheim, Musical Theatre College Audition Prep, and Scene your Song, 

Join MTCA’s “Direct From Broadway” special guest for an inspiring, behind-the-scenes conversation. Students learn from those who have achieved what they aspire to, hearing personal stories, career insights, and real-world advice. It’s a chance to connect, ask questions, and leave motivated to reach for their own Broadway dreams.

Students have the opportunity to train with MTCA’s “Direct From Broadway” special guests.  From acting and vocal technique to choreography straight from the stage, these hands-on sessions are a rare chance to learn from those who inspire.

MTCA is more than a festival, it’s a community. Between performances, students connect, and cheer each other on, building friendships that last long after the weekend ends. From the all-inclusive Technical Theatre Olympics to the high-energy MTCA Dance Party, every moment is a chance to meet like-minded performers from across the country and celebrate together.

Saturday night our  Direct from Broadway Special Guests take to the stage for a concert featuring students cast from open call audition! Past Guests include, Derek Klena, Samantha Pauly, Adam Jacobs, Arielle Jacobs, Corey Cott, Taylor Louderman, Christy Altomare, Erika Henningsen and Christopher J. Hanke.  

On Sunday, the festival wraps up with a celebration direct from The Walter Knott Theatre. Awards are presented in all categories; Individual, Group, Triple Threat, and Sweepstakes honors. Be the first to see the premiere of the MTCA 2026 Highlight Reel, reliving the most exciting moments of the weekend. Then keep the fun going with MTCA Karaoke hosted by Chase. It's the perfect way to end an unforgettable festival.