Music Theater FAQs

here are the most frequently asked questions

1. Will any rehearsal conflicts be accepted?

Yes - Cast Members can miss up to two rehearsals without their role being changed or modified. They cannot miss any rehearsals that are within 1 (one) month of the actual performance for any reason.

2. WHAT ARE THE FEES AND COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH BEING A CAST MEMBER?

Tuition for the Theater Jr Program (Ages 8 - 18) is $195 per month. This rate includes the costume rentals/purchases, professional videography of the shows, venue and technical labor costs, etc. It does not include tickets purchased to attend the show (ticket costs range from $17.50 - $25 per ticket).

Tuition for the Kids Theatre (Kinder - 3rd grade) is $195/month. This rate includes the rehearsals costumes, and parents can video these shows. Tickets are $5 - $10 per seat and seating is limited to only 40-50 attendees per show.

3. Age requirement/range?

For Theater Jr - ages 8 - 18 (2nd grade to Seniors)

For Kids Theatre - Kinder - 4th grade (new to theater)

4. when are auditions?

Check under the “Musical Theater” drop-down of our website for links to specific shows and auditions.

Kids Theatre does not have auditions or call-backs, it is open enrollment.

5. WHAT DO CALLBACKS ENTAIL?

Callbacks typically will be immediately after individual auditions on the SAME DAY. We will start with a simple dance audition followed by additional reading and singing from the script and score. We strive to cast every individual that attends auditions and call-backs.

Callbacks are not applicable for Kids Theatre. Everyone is welcome to join (provided they meet the age/grade requirements).

6. where are rehearsals held?

D39 CAST on Mondays at Design39 Campus

MUSIC PILLARS CAST on Tuesdays at 4S/Del Sur Music Pillars

BROADWAY CAST on Thursdays at 4S/Del Sur Music Pillars

KIDS THEATRE CAST on Wednesdays at 4S/Del Sur Music Pillars

7. where/WHEN WILL THE PERFORMANCES BE?

For our Theater Jr shows, we typically perform at the Del Norte Theater or Design 39 Campus depending on availability. See your exact show details for any changes to that venue. Summer camps and workshops are held at our studio location.

For our Kids Theatre shows, - we typically hold those performances at our studio location or another smaller theater space.

8. Does my child need prior experience in singing, acting, or dance?

Not at all. Most students start with zero experience, and that’s completely expected. The program is built to introduce all three disciplines in a fun, low-pressure way.

9. What does a typical class look like?

Classes are structured, but feel like play (on purpose).

A typical session includes:

• 🎵 Warm-ups (movement + vocal play)

• Imaginative acting games (storytelling, characters, expression)

• Learning Choreography

• Learning Music

• Run-through (typically at the end) of what we have learned that week

10. How often are classes and how long are they?

• Jr rehearsals - 3 hours 1x per week

• Kids Theatre - 2 hours 1x per week

(You can adjust this based on your actual offering.)

11. How do you support shy or hesitant children?

• Allow children to observe first, then join when ready

• Use group-based activities so no one feels singled out

• Build confidence through small wins every week

Most shy kids start participating naturally within the first class or two.

12. Can parents stay and observe at the beginning?

Not at rehearsal, no. But before getting started, you and your child will have come in for an assessment and met the Studio Manager, and other supporting teachers.

13. How can I prepare my child before starting?

The initial assessment/get together at the studio with your child, Studio Manager, and you helps break the ice for everyone!

Also - in describing the activity to your child, keep it simple, no pressure.

Helpful things:

• Play music and let them move freely

• Encourage pretend play (characters, storytelling)

• Watch a fun musical together

• Talk about class as something fun, not something to “perform perfectly”

The goal is excitement, not preparation.

14. Do you offer trial classes or observation sessions?

Yes. Our initial assessments is what can also be thought-off as a trial class. Also, we strongly encourage families to come see on of our theatre productions with your child! Here is the Box Office Link.

15. Will there be performance opportunities?

Yes, all courses and classes in theater have a culminating performance!

Kids Theatre

30-minute production typically at our black box theatre

Jr Theatre

60-70 minute production offsite at local theatre venues.

16. What happens if my child misses a class?

We understand things come up. Theatre is a group-activity, so much like sports - there is not a make-up practice or rehearsal.

17. What if we need to withdraw?

All of the Theatre courses, classes have a natural “term” with the end being a performance (and a cast party). For families that decide to withdraw mid-term there are no refunds. This is extremely rare (that a child or family withdraws).

18. Are there options for children under age 7 (like summer camps)?

Most of our full-day summer camps start at age 7, because of the pace and structure.

However:

• Occasionally, we may offer half-day or beginner-friendly options during the summer

Have more questions?

Feel free to call us at 858-999-8584 or email our Stage Manager Melissa at coordinator@musicpillars.com

For more questions about the Kids Theatre Program - please email the Director Scott scott@musicpillars.com