Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I enroll at any time?
- Yes! We work hard to include every student, often modifying scripts to accommodate latecomers. Even if a production is underway, there are usually opporunities to be filled. In rare cases where we can't make it work, we'll let you know ASAP and will freeze your subscription until the next available opportunity (probably within a couple weeks).
- Do my youth have to audition?
- No auditions are necessary to join the program. We feature every enrolled youth onstage as much as possible. However, in-class auditions are held to help find the best role for each student. Before casting, we practice and coach students on auditioning.
- How long is the commitment?
- Tuition is monthly, so if you only want to try out a program for a month, that's fine! However, most productions take two to three months for rehearsals and performances. If you want your youth to perform, we do ask that you at least commit until the end of a production, as dropping creates holes that are difficult to fill. Most students are eager to continue across multiple productions (often over multiple years). Others join seasonally. It's up to you!
- What does my tuition cover? Are there additional fees?
- Tuition covers instruction, production, and facility costs (the theater, lights, microphones, utilities, costumes, props, etc). Unlike with many other youth programs, there are no additional fees. The reality is that our productions and programs are very expensive to put on and, even with tuition and ticket sales, often take losses. Furthermore, we are not backed by public funding, the owners and instructors often volunteer their time, and this is very much a labor of love for all of us. Thus we're grateful for your support through tuition, which is essential for keeping these wonderful programs afloat.
- How does billing work?
- Your monthly tuition subscription begins the moment you sign up, and you are welcome to bring your youth to the next rehearsal at the theater. (We will contact you if there are special circumstances.) After your initial charge, automatic billing will begin on the first day of the next month (with a discount for the days you've already paid for). You can cancel your subscription at any time by simply contacting us. Once a payment has gone through, however, we cannot provide any refunds, even if performances are early in the month and you wish to discontinue afterward. This is because performances incur many additional costs, which your tuition covers. Please contact us to work out any special billing needs.
- Is financial assistance available?
- Yes! There are many opportunities to help families cover costs. In exchange for tuition, parents or older youth can help with classes or productions. As fundraisers, youth can sell tickets to shows. Just let us know about your needs and interests, and we'll be happy to share options.
- What plays do you put on?
Growing out of Great Hall Theatrical Experiences (the production company of Stephen and Teresa Gashler), we primarily put on youth versions of their award-winning plays and musicals, often in tandem with the adult productions of the same shows. This allows (1) for the use of fanastic sets, (2) for the youth to take inspiration from the adults, and (3) for us to streamline our marketing efforts and bring in bigger audiences for the youth.
Another major benefit of putting on original works (aside from them being fresh, fun, and awesome) is it allows us to easily adapt them to the needs of each cast, ensuring that every student is featured. We also put on some classics and, with the assistance of the youth, continually write new plays each year. For some units, the youth write and direct their own plays. About once a year, we put on "acting for film" units, in which the students collaborate in writing original screenplays.
