Broadway Bound: Belmont's Josh Jordan

Senior cast in national tour of ‘& Juliet’ shares how musical theatre program set him up for success

Josh Jordan, senior musical theatre major, is making waves in the industry even before his December graduation. Currently starring in the national tour of "& Juliet," Jordan credits his Belmont education for preparing him to balance professional work with his studies. 

Born and raised in Nashville, Jordan was initially drawn to Belmont's picturesque campus. "I loved the campus esthetically. I mean, just walking there felt like a breath of fresh air," he reminisced. Although he originally considered studying law, Jordan's passion for theatre blossomed in high school, leading him to pursue musical theatre at Belmont. 

Jordan praised Belmont's musical theatre program for its comprehensive approach. "I appreciated that Belmont was very focused on musicianship in the theatre program," he said. "A lot of theatre programs around the nation are more focused on acting or dance, and they don't get as much music training." 

This musical foundation has proven invaluable in his professional career. "I go into rooms where I'm one of few people who can read music, and it just makes the process so much easier and makes auditioning easier," Jordan explained. 

Throughout his time at Belmont, Jordan has been involved in numerous productions, participating in a show every semester. His dedication to his craft extended beyond the theatre program, as he also pursued roles in the Department of Theatre and Dance productions. 

Jordan's big break came when he landed a role in "& Juliet" while still a student. He plays Richard, Shakespeare's right-hand man, and understudies the roles of Shakespeare and Romeo. Balancing this professional opportunity with his studies has been challenging but rewarding. "I am trying to protect that balance," Jordan said. "A lot of it looks like staying in the theater for an hour after everyone leaves to finish exams and turning in lab work during intermission." 

Reflecting on how Belmont prepared him for this opportunity, Jordan highlighted the program's focus on creating well-rounded performers. "Belmont, again, doesn't just make musicians. They make well-rounded humans," he stated. "This job, musical theatre, or performing in general, can be emotionally and mentally taxing."  

He emphasized how Belmont's approach helps students navigate the challenges of the industry. "The musical theatre professors have instilled in us so well, is to be grateful, understanding and just to not have any sort of entitlement about or expectation about how a process should go, and to try to do our best to help move the process along smoothly." 

Jordan also emphasized the practical experience provided by Belmont's musical theatre seminar. "We either have guests come and speak to us about the challenges of the industry and how to overcome those, or they just come and give us tips on how to audition," he explained. This hands-on approach, he noted, is something many of his industry peers say they wish they had experienced in their own education. 

When asked what makes Belmont's musical theatre program stand out, Jordan listed four key factors: practical exercises, focus on developing well-rounded individuals, strong music training and emphasis on the business side of show business. "Belmont does a good job of teaching about the business side of show business," he said. "Most schools focus on the show part." 

Jordan's advice to current students aspiring to follow a similar path is to take advantage of every opportunity. "I would definitely advise students who want to work professionally now to just take advantage of every opportunity you can to experience the industry that you're trying to go into, and to grow and prepare yourself for that," he said. He encouraged students to go beyond the standard curriculum. "The addition of going to dance classes outside of school, participating in performances that are not required – like senior-directed one acts, things like that – I personally have done a lot of those things, and it’s made all the difference." 

He also stressed the importance of making connections. "Make as many connections as you can, and not for the sake of trying to meet people that you can leverage their success or their position for your own gain, but just being open and look forward to getting to know people who have similar passions as you." 

Looking ahead, Jordan remains open to various creative opportunities after his current tour ends. "I just hope to be getting paid to do something else creative," he said. "Of course, I would love to play a principal role on Broadway." 

As Jordan continues to make his mark in the theater world, his journey serves as a testament to the quality of education and preparation provided by Belmont's musical theatre program.