The performance elements for Musical Theatre and Group exams are pre-recorded in advance and uploaded for the Examiner to assess (more details on where to upload the tape will be sent via email once the exam is booked in). 


Please note: 

  • Group Learners do not need to join a Zoom call – as there is no knowledge section for the exam, the entirety of the performance is pre-recorded in advance. 
  • Solo / Duo Musical Theatre learners must join the Zoom meeting 15 minutes before their exam time for the knowledge section of the exam. 


New Timeline & Guidance for recordings from August 1st 2026 can be found on our website here: Pre-Recorded Video Submissions for LAMDA Exams 


A link to upload your video(s) will be provided 2 weeks prior to the event. Please ensure that all recordings are uploaded within 48 hours of receiving the link.   



1) Equipment and Setup:

  • Record using a computer or tablet with an internal camera and microphone.  
  • Although mobile phones are permitted for recordings, please be aware that they may not always provide the correct frame size. 
  • The recording device must remain stationary throughout the performance. 
  • The performance must be captured in one continuous shot — no cuts or edits between songs. 
  • Minimum video quality: 720p (HD). 
  • Ensure the space is well-lit, free from glare or distractions, and that your full body (head to feet) is visible at all times.  
  • Centre stage and blurred background must be turned off  
  • Group Exams: All the learners must remain visible on screen at all times. 


 More information about how to set up a room for a remote assessment can be found here: Room Requirements for Remote Online Assessments (ROA)



2) Sound and Music:

  • The learner may perform with a live accompanist or a recorded backing track. Please review the Exam Regulations in the relevant syllabus for more details.   
  • If a backing track is used, it must be played from a secondary device (not the one recording). 
  • Keep the music volume balanced so the learner(s) voice is clearly heard.  
  • The music technician/ accompanist should be in view of the camera but remain stationary and behind the learner so they do not interrupt the performance or distract the learner 



3) Who can be in the room during the recording 

  • The learner(s) taking the exam  
  • A live accompanist OR music technician (for Solo/Duo Musical Theatre, Group Musical Theatre and PCertLAM exams only) 
  • A camera operator  

Please note: The camera should not move or follow the learner during the tape of the performance. We recommend placing the recording device on a stand so that it does not move during the performance. 


Where possible, LAMDA recommends that the Technician or Accompanist operate the camera recording to reduce potential distractions during the recording. No further people are allowed to be present for any reason during the recording unless permitted by an authorised LAMDA Reasonable Adjustment 



4) At the Start of the Recording:  

  • Just like with a live exam, the learner should state their full name(s), exam subject, and grade. 
  • The learner should introduce each piece by announcing the title, lyricist/composer, and character name before performing.
  • The accompanist/technician/camera operator for the exam should introduce themselves in front of the camera before the learner performs their pieces.
  • For Group Exams, all learners are to be introduced with their full names in the order of the register. If any members of the group are absent, or any stand-ins are included in the recording, this is to be stated at the beginning. Stand-ins must be clearly identifiable throughout the performance and do not need to be named. 



5) After Recording: 

  • Please check the full recording to ensure the learner and music can be heard and that the learner can be clearly seen throughout the recording. Check picture and sound quality.  
  • The video should not be edited but recorded in once continuous take. 
  • Ensure the learners full body remains visible throughout the recording (including if the learner steps up onto any chairs or if they move to the floor).
  • Convert the file to MP4 format.
  • Label the file clearly: 
    • FirstName LastName – Musical Theatre Grade X  
    • Upload your file using the link provided by LAMDA by the stated deadline.  



LAMDA will review the videos to ensure they meet quality and content standards. If there are issues, we will contact you to resolve them. Failure to submit a suitable video on time may result in learner withdrawal from the exam.


IMPORTANT: The Quality Check does not involve a review of adherence to Examination Regulations or Grade Specifications. It is only to check whether the Learner(s) can be seen and heard adequately in order to be assessed by the Examiner. Confirmation that the Self-Tape(s) have passed the quality check is not confirmation that examination regulations and requirements have been met.