Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about our Performance Option and Classes

Which program should I register my child for ?

Our Level 1 and Level 2 class programs provide excellent training and skills development; students work on voice, movement, simple choreography, role-playing, story-telling, mime, improvisation, and character development, with both scripted and unscripted work. The program is designed to be challenging and involving for students at all skill levels.

Each 13-week class session ends with a presentation of prepared work, including a play and a musical number, for an audience of parents, friends and relatives. We emphasize participation and confidence-building, and provide a supportive, non-competitive environment for all.

What is the difference between the classes and the Performance Option ?

Going beyond the scheduled classes, the Performance Option provides a fuller and more realistic onstage experience and adds additional challenges for students able to make the time commitment to develop their skills to the next level.

Students ages 6 to 8 can register for the Level 1 program and can also participate in the end-of-year performance in Chorus Roles. Students age 9 and up can register for the Level 2 program and can participate in the Performance Option in either Chorus or (by audition) Principal roles.

Should I register my child for the Performance Option ?

Participation in the Performance Option is entirely optional; if you decide not to choose this option, your child will, through the program of classes, still benefit from a rewarding and enriching experience.

But if your child loves to perform and is looking for the additional challenge and experience; if you are able to get to our rehearsal locations without inconvenience, and are also able to make the time commitment to Saturday morning rehearsals as well as classes, then we would recommend the Performance Option for your kids. Note that the Saturday rehearsals will be only occasional at the start of the year but will become more regular as we get closer to the performance dates, at the end of May / beginning of June.

We can promise a terrific and memorable experience which will bring your kids to the next level of their dramatic development, confidence, and self-presentation skills.

What show will the kids be doing this year ?

The show will be a junior-level Broadway musical, somewhat simplified and shortened so all can participate, but with full music and costumes. Possibilities for this year: Shrek, Jr (which cannot be confirmed at the moment since it is still under restricted licensing); Mulan; Fame; Bugsy Malone; Willy Wonka; Guys and Dolls; Hairspray. Final choice will be announced toward the end of October.

Do kids need to be registered for classes in order to select the Performance Option ?

Yes, they must be current students (at the time of rehearsals and performance).

Will everyone have roles in the performance ?

Yes; all will have at least Chorus roles, without any need to audition.

How many performances will there be ?

Two at each location, on the same day (Saturday or Sunday afternoon). Those in Chorus roles will be in both performances; those in Principal roles will be in at least one.

What if my child auditions for a Principal role and is not accepted ?

All those registered for classes are still guaranteed at least a Chorus role in the performance.

What about the additional cost ?

There is a fee of $ 50.00 for participation in the Performance Option. In addition, particpants are required to pay a costume fee of $ 25.00 and purchase in advance two tickets for the final performance, at $ 10.00 each. The total cost is therefore $ 95.00 per participant; this is to be paid on registration for the Performance Option and is non-refundable.

What is the time commitment ?

For Chorus roles, including rehearals, dress rehearsal and performance: approximately 26 hours.

For Principal roles, including rehearsals, dress rehearsal and performance: approximately 40 hours.

These are in addition to the regularly scheduled 13-week class sessions.

Do I have to decide when I register for classes ?

No. We can add your registration for the Performance Option later; we would recommend no later than the third week of October for making your decision, since auditions and rehearsals will start in November. If you would like to wait, simply say No when asked about the option during the online registration process; get back to use via e-mail or on our toll-free number 1-866-864-4282 when you have made your decision.

Will there be changes to the dates of the final performance ?

We will make our best effort to ensure that the dates remain unchanged; but unforeseeable events might still occur. At the moment, the dates are 90 % certain. We will provide as much advance notice as possible if there are changes.

What if my child likes to act but isn't sure about the singing / dancing ?

Previous singing / dancing experience or vocal / dance training is not a requirement, though it will be beneficial for those auditioning for Principal roles. Some of the roles in the production may also require only minimal singing / dancing. Chorus roles will generally not require any solo singing. Choreographed routines will be simple enough to allow participation by all.

What if we change our minds ?

In fairness to the other children and families in the production, we would ask that you register only if you are reasonably sure that you will be able to make this commitment. Of course, changes in circumstances do occur. If cancelling the Performance Option, we would ask that you provide as much advance notice as possible. Fees for the Performance Option and related options (tickets, costume fee) are not refundable.