How to Choose Live Theatre Classes for Children
1. Ask all of the questions you can think of!
When you’re doing something for the first time, you’ll, of course, be full of questions. Don’t be afraid to find a program director or someone in charge to answer your questions. They will more than likely be happy to help guide you through the process and in the right direction. Here are a few questions you may want to ask to get started:
- What does the facility look like?
- What kind of class varieties are offered here?
- What experience level do the teachers have?
- Is there an accreditation that the teachers have to receive to teach?
- Do live performances have any additional fees?
- How much, if any, travel is required for shows?
- What are the age ranges of the other kids in the classes?
- Are the classes structured by age or experience level?
Granted, this might look like a ton of questions to you and include some that aren’t necessary for you and your child. For others, it might just be the first step in getting the ball rolling. Regardless of how many questions you have, your program director should be happy to answer all that you have. If they’re not happy to answer your questions, that might be a sign that you’re in the wrong place.
2. Pay attention to the class sizes.
When you visit a facility for the first time, you’ll want to take special notice of how large the class sizes are. Live theatre classes should be small, almost like a private acting lesson, so that your child has the opportunity to work on a new piece each week.
You’ll also want to make a note of the ratio between class size and class length. More students in a shorter time window, meaning the instructor has less time to work with each student individually.
3. Look around your area to compare prices with online reviews.
Another aspect of choosing a live theatre class is the consideration of a budget. You want to make sure that you are receiving quality lessons for your dollar. After all, you worked hard for your paycheck, and you want to make sure it gets used wisely.
Compare the pricing of the program with online reviews. If the prices are very high and the program has an average rating score of one to two stars, you may want to consider looking elsewhere. However, if the pricing looks like the average price in your area and the reviews are phenomenal, you could move ahead with scheduling a tour!
4. Know when to stop before you start.
Starting something new can be an exceptionally exciting new chapter for your child! Even when starting something new, it’s important to know when to walk away. It’s almost as important as knowing which live theatre class is the best fit! A class that no longer serves your child’s needs is simply a waste.
Instead, look hard to find a class that is going to be challenging your student and encourage them to grow in each session. This will help keep them engaged and learning new things. If your child does seem to stop engaging and losing interest, it may be best to find a new class for them to try.
5. Trust the professionals.
Asheville Performing Arts Academy is a school based on unlimited opportunities for students to explore their personal interests in music, dance, and live theatre. Our goal is to instill a love and passion for performing arts in the hearts and minds of children in Western North Carolina.
If your child is in elementary, middle, or high-school and is interested in the Asheville Performing Arts Academy, we would love to meet them. We have several programs for students with a special interest in musical theatre and performing arts.
We can’t wait to hear from you and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to get started. We look forward to working alongside you and your talented child!