What are the benefits of participating in a theatrical production/class?

How does my child get a part in the show?

What is a typical class like?

What if my child is unhappy with their part?

Does my child have to be at all of the classes and all of the dress rehearsals?

What is double casting/do you double cast?

Does my child need to have prior experience?

My child is serious about performing. Can you give me the name of an agent?

What does my tuition pay for?

Are there any additional fees?

Is there a sibling discount?

Can I videotape the show? What about pictures?

How many students are in each class? What is your adult to student ratio?

What are the benefits of participating in a theatrical production/class?
At DLC, we are firm believers that drama is extremely beneficial in increasing self-confidence and teaches young people how to better express themselves. In addition to the drama skills they gain, they also learn teamwork skills that will be helpful to them throughout their lives.

How does my child get a part in the show?
For all of our classes (with the exception of TYA) each student enrolled is guaranteed a role in the show. On the first day of class, we conduct what we refer to as “placements.” We try to avoid the word “audition” because oftentimes it creates unnecessary anxiety. Placements are our way to find the best place for your child in the production- the area that will enable them to be most comfortable, learn, and grow. We will teach a song from the show, and students who wish to be considered for a solo will sing in front of the class. Oftentimes we also will do a group dance and some readings from the script.

What is a typical class like?
Usually when class starts, students are led in a group drama warm-up followed by a brief discussion of a drama term. Then directors begin rehearsing scenes from that day’s class schedule. If a student is not in the scene the director is working on, they are working with the assistant director or counselor to learn/review music and choreography, or are working on drama skills through theatre games/class work.

What if my child is unhappy with their part?
We understand that occasionally students are initially disappointed if they do not get the role they had their heart set on. However, our staff is committed to finding each student’s opportunity to shine on our stage. To this end, we choose ensemble shows- where each student’s role is extremely important to the theatrical process. Regardless of the show title, each student will experience lots of stage time, singing, dancing, acting, drama skills and games, learning, and fun!

Does my child have to be at all of the classes and all of the dress rehearsals?
Yes please! Because we are emphasizing ensemble theatre and teamwork, attendance is essential. Of course we understand illness and emergency, but please try to make sure that your child’s schedule is clear for the week of dress rehearsals. Regardless of the size of the role, if one student is missing it throws off the group dynamic. Please alert your child’s director if you foresee any potential conflicts.

What is double casting/do you double cast?
Double casting is where one role is shared by two students who each portray the role at one final performance. (Most classes have 2 final performances) Typically, these students will be featured in the ensemble on the show day where they are not performing their main role. Though this system does provide additional opportunities, there are some challenges. When a role is shared, the student must share rehearsal time with another. They also must learn an additional “track” or stage path for the show where they are not playing their main role. In many cases, a director will choose to double cast a role when he/she has two students who are equally capable of playing the part and are experienced enough to handle the challenges that come with being double cast. Double casting is always up to the discretion of the individual director.

Does my child need to have prior experience?
No! We welcome students of all levels from beginner to advanced! We find that though beginners might be initially intimidated or nervous, those feeling typically fade after the first class. All of our teachers emphasize the fact that each student’s contribution is important.

My child is serious about performing. Can you give me the name of an agent?
We do not have a particular agent that we recommend, but we strongly urge parents to use extreme caution when thinking about this option. Please be aware that an ethical agent will only offer to represent your child if they think they are going to be able to find work for him/her, and will require NO money up front. True agents only get paid when they book a job for their talent, and will only take 10-15% of what the client is paid for the job.

What does my tuition pay for?
In addition to participating in a theatrical production, students will also gain a basic knowledge of drama skills including stage directions, improvisation, character development, pantomime, expression, projection, articulation, and more. Your tuition also includes 2 complimentary tickets to the final production (additional tickets will be available for purchase). DLC typically provides the majority of costume pieces and students perform in our fully equipped theatre which features new sound and lighting equipment.

Are there any additional fees?
Aside from ticket purchases, all additional fees are optional. Families do have the option to purchase a 8x10 cast photo and DVD of the final performance.

Is there a sibling discount?
We offer sibling discounts for our School’s Out Workshop series. However, we are happy to work out a payment plan for families with more than one child enrolled in a production class.

Can I videotape the show? What about pictures?
Because of copyright laws, videotaping is strictly prohibited. We do allow pictures to be taken during the performances as long as flash is not used. Flashes distract our actors and audience. If you choose to take non-flash pictures during the performance, please be courteous to those around you and be aware of any noises your camera might make. Again, we want to avoid distracting our performers!

How many students are in each class? What is your adult to student ratio?
For preschool classes our maximum class size is 20, for Beginning Acting the maximum is 25, and for production classes our maximum is 30. We try to adhere to a 1:10 ratio, and typical staffing includes a director, assistant director, and counselor.