* Frequently Asked Questions * SIGNUP for a time - Click here
(For FAQ's about the NCSA, click here.)
Is the staff really made-up of professional performers?
Yes. We are committed to staffing the NCSA with only working professional performers who are also great teachers! This ensures that students learn from individuals who have extensive real-world experience on the stage, which they can then apply in their own performances. NCSA instructors also serve as mentors and tutors, helping students make real their artistic dreams.
* Our instructors have performed leading roles all over the world. Chicago, Seattle, New York (Broadway), Hamburg, Germany (Phantom of the Opera), Tokyo, Helsinki as well as various places across the US, Mexico and Europe.
(See our Instructor page for additional information.)
Is there a Fee to be in the production?
Yes. The fee helps to defray the costs of:
* Securing the rights and licensing for the show
* Paying the rental fees for the theater, lighting and sound
* Paying for professional sets and costumes.
* Covering engagement fees for our professional instructors.
We have conflicts, should we still audition?
Yes, you should audition! We are usually understanding and flexible concerning conflicts. Let us have the chance to look at your schedule and see what can be done.
Is everyone cast in the Show?
No, it is not possible to have everyone cast in the show. Sometimes there are not enough roles/positions for the number of people who audition. Sometimes the individual's level of ability needs a bit more time to develop. In some case, the voice is just not right for that particular show.
If there are four performances - will they be double-cast?
No, there will not be two casts. It is very difficult to achieve a level of professionalism with one cast, let alone two. We want our performers to feel what it is like to get a couple of performances "under their belts."
What is the atmosphere of rehearsals / productions?
We believe that theater should be a fun and creative experience for our students, while also providing growth opportunities. In the Theater, there times for play and times for work. When we work, we work hard with energy, focus and no "messing around." When we play, we play full-out and have fun! When actors are focused, fun and creativity flourish. This means setting rules about what can and cannot be done, when and where. Our staff understands what kind of commitment it takes to work on Broadway in Movin' Out or in Phantom of the Opera, and knows exactly what sort of guidance is needed to help individuals grow in theater.
The end result of the work is the "telling of the tale." When the show blossoms and lives, then all the work is worth it!
How organized is the rehearsal schedule?
We do our best to only call you when you are needed. We try to rehearse the bigger scenes or musical numbers first, so that more people can be released in a timely manner.
There are times when it will take longer than expected for us to get to, or through, a particular scene or musical number. The result is that there may be some extra time involved. This is part of rehearsal and theater.
If my child is cast do I still need to buy tickets?
Yes, you will still need to buy tickets. As with the vast majority of theaters, the ticket sales help to defray costs associated with the production.
Are parents required to volunteer?
No, parents are only required to support their performers! We always need parents who can help us create the production, however we don't feel that making it a requirement is necessary or needed.
Are performers required to sell tickets?
No, performers are not required to sell tickets. We are suggesting that each family sell 10 tickets - You can use your assigned family ID to keep track. There is enough stress on the families and performers already. Required ticket sales are more like a hidden fee, than a helping hand.
Who is allowed backstage?
Only trained and authorized staff will be allowed to be backstage. No visitors will be allowed to remain backstage, or tour the backstage without a member of the staff with them.
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