YOUR QUESTIONS, ANSWERED

  • QUESTION: DOES MY CHILD NEED EXPERIENCE TO AUDITION?

    Not at all - your child absolutely does not need any previous experience to audition.

    Our aim is to give them the experience they need. They’ll even gain confidence and useful skills just by taking part in the audition itself.

    We treat all our young performers as “young professionals,” while fully understanding that many may not have had the opportunity to show themselves in that way yet. That’s something they will learn with us throughout the rehearsal process.

    We also expect to cast a lovely mix of children - some who already have experience and are looking to develop further, and others who may be stepping into a rehearsal room for the very first time. Both are equally welcome. In many cases, the more experienced children naturally become wonderful examples for the newer performers to look up to, and this creates a really positive, supportive atmosphere in the cast.

    What matters most to us is not existing experience, but the child’s willingness to focus, learn, improve, and give their best. The rest - the technique, confidence, and stage presence, we will help them build along the way.

    QUESTION: HOW WILL YOU MAKE YOUR AUDITIONS FEEL RELAXED AND CHILD FRIENDLY?

    We’ve been working with children for many years and we have decades of experience between us, so we’re very used to tailoring the environment to what young performers need. We know how to spot when a child is feeling a little nervous and needs some extra reassurance, and we also know how to gently challenge the ones who walk in bursting with confidence. We can balance both at the same time so everyone feels supported.

    Our auditions are deliberately designed to be relaxed, friendly, and fun. They last three hours, which gives children plenty of time to settle in, make friends, and enjoy themselves rather than feeling rushed or under pressure. We want every child to leave feeling positive about their experience, no matter what the outcome is.

    At the same time as all of the above, we are running a professional style audition to give them the ‘proper’ experience so please note we still do expect a good level of focus and willingness to learn and showcase their abilities!

    QUESTION: WHEN WILL WE HEAR BACK ABOUT THE RESULTS?

    Within two weeks of the audition.

    QUESTION: WHAT IF MY CHILD DOESN’T GET A NAMED ROLE – IS THERE AN ENSEMBLE OR ALTERNATIVE OPTION?

    Absolutely. We rely on a strong ensemble to bring the whole production to life, and those roles are just as important as any solo or speaking part.

    Not every performer will have a solo or named character, but every child will have a meaningful place in the show. Ensemble roles often involve group singing, dance routines, character moments, and plenty of stage time. It takes an entire company to create a world onstage, not just a few leads.

    We make sure everyone feels valued, involved, and part of the team, no matter what role they receive.

    QUESTION: WHAT IF MY CHILD ISN’T SUCCESSFUL THIS TIME?

    If your child isn’t cast this year, we’ll always aim to give supportive, constructive feedback (if you would like it). Auditions themselves are a huge learning experience, and children grow so much in confidence and skill over a single year.

    Every performer improves at their own pace, and sometimes a year makes all the difference. We hope you had a fantastic time at the audition and look forward to welcoming you back next year!

  • QUESTION: IS MY CHILD THE CORRECT AGE TO TAKE PART?

    Your child must be no younger than 5 and no older than 13 on the date of the 24th August 2026.

    QUESTION: DO YOU SEPARATE THE CHILDREN BY AGE OR MIX THEM TOGETHER?

    It really depends on the show and the roles rather than the children’s ages. We group the cast based on which scenes, songs, and dances they’re involved in, so the combinations will vary throughout the rehearsal process.

    That said, we’re always mindful of making sure every child feels comfortable within their group. Younger performers won’t be placed in situations that feel overwhelming, and older or more experienced children will be given opportunities to stretch themselves. The balance is really important to us - we want everyone to feel safe, supported, and in the right place for their role.

    QUESTION: MY CHILD ALREADY ATTENDS A LOCAL THEATRE SCHOOL OR PERFORMING ARTS CLASSES – CAN THEY STILL AUDITION?

    Yes, absolutely. We fully support children continuing with their regular theatre school or performing arts training, and we believe that ongoing classes are incredibly important for developing strong technique and confidence.

    Theatre Productions is not a weekly training programme — it is a production process focused on rehearsing and putting together a full-scale show. While children will learn many invaluable skills throughout rehearsals, regular classes are what build the foundations that support children through auditions and future opportunities.

    We simply ask that families ensure rehearsal commitments do not clash with existing classes, so children can fully commit to both their training and the production.

  • QUESTION: WHAT HAPPENS IF MY CHILD NEEDS TO MISS A REHEARSAL (ILLNESS, HOLIDAY, SCHOOL TRIP)?

    Our rehearsal process is split into three parts, and each works slightly differently in terms of attendance:

    1. Easter Intensive (first week of rehearsals)

    We do ask that all cast members attend every day of the Easter intensive.

    This week is when we put together the majority of the show - the structure, the staging, the big ensemble numbers. By the end of this intensive, the cast will know the “skeleton” of most scenes.

    Because of that, missing days during this week can make it very difficult for a child to keep up, so full attendance is required.

    2. Weekly Rehearsals (12 weeks in the summer term)

    These rehearsals are where we refine the show, build confidence, develop character work, polish vocals and choreography, and add all the detail that brings the production to life.

    We do ask that children attend all rehearsals wherever possible.

    However, we completely understand that across a long period like this, unavoidable absences (such as illness, family commitments, or school events) may happen. Missing one or two rehearsals is manageable.

    If a child needs to miss a rehearsal, we just ask parents to let us know in advance wherever possible.

    3. Summer Intensive (final week before the show)

    This is another period of required full attendance, as we will be in the theatre for:

    ·       costume fittings

    ·       technical rehearsal

    ·       lighting and sound

    ·       spacing and final polishing

    There is also a full month between the weekly rehearsals and the summer intensive, so this week is essential for brushing up and pulling everything together.

    QUESTION: WHAT IF MY CHILD MISSES TOO MUCH?

    We will always do everything we can to support each child, but if a performer misses a significant amount of rehearsal and starts to fall behind in a way that affects the show or their wellbeing, we do reserve the right to adjust their role or, in rare cases, ask them to step out of the cast.

    We would always communicate sensitively with parents first, and this would only ever happen to protect the child (so they’re not stressed or overwhelmed) and to keep the production running smoothly.

    Our aim is always to keep every child feeling confident, included, and successful.

    QUESTION: WHAT SHOULD MY CHILD WEAR TO REHEARSALS?

    Children should wear something comfortable and easy to move in. Rehearsals involve dancing, acting, and lots of physical activity, so clothing needs to be safe and suitable.

    Please avoid:

    ·       jeans

    ·       skirts or dresses

    ·       crop tops

    ·       any clothing that restricts movement

    Crop tops are not permitted at rehearsals. This is partly for comfort and practicality, but also because we want to make sure all rehearsal photos and video clips are appropriate and professional for a children’s environment, especially when shared on social media or with families.

    What to wear instead:

    ·       leggings

    ·       reasonable-length cycling shorts

    ·       joggers

    ·       a comfortable T-shirt

    ·       jazz shoes if your child has them

    ·       otherwise trainers or plimsolls are absolutely fine

    Jewellery:

    No jewellery should be worn except for plain stud earrings.

    For safety reasons, hoops, dangly earrings, rings, bracelets, necklaces, and anything a finger or costume could catch on are not allowed.

    We want all children to feel comfortable, safe, and free to move with confidence.

    QUESTION: WHAT AM I SIGNING UP TO?

    If your child is successful in the audition, you are signing up to take part in the full rehearsal process and to perform in two performances on 28th and 29th August 2026. This commitment covers rehearsals and performances for this specific production only.

    Theatre Productions is a show based project, not a rolling class or ongoing programme. Once the performances are complete, the production comes to an end, with no expectation or obligation to continue beyond that.

  • QUESTION: HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO TAKE PART?

    All cost information is provided once we receive your audition sign-up form. This allows us to share a full breakdown of what’s included, along with exact dates and expectations, before your child attends the audition.

    The fee covers a significant rehearsal period, including two full weeks of structured rehearsals during the school holidays (one in Easter and one in summer), alongside weekly rehearsals, professional direction, venue hire, licensing, costumes, staffing, and insurance — ensuring families clearly understand the value of what’s included from the outset.

     

    QUESTION: DO YOU OFFER PAYMENT PLANS?

    Yes - you can either pay in full or split the fee into two instalments.

    Because your child’s place impacts casting, scheduling, costumes, insurances and our legal/licensing commitments, all fees must be paid on time. If payments are not received by the agreed dates, unfortunately your child will not be able to attend rehearsals until the balance is up to date.

    This isn’t something we ever want to happen, but it’s important for fairness, safety, and the running of the production.

     

    QUESTION: ARE THERE ANY ADDITIONAL COSTS (COSTUMES, TICKETS, PHOTOS ETC)?

    Costumes

    All costumes are included in the main fee — you won’t be asked to buy or source anything additional unless it’s a simple wardrobe item (such as plain leggings or a vest), which most families already have.

    Tickets

    We aim to keep ticket prices as low and accessible as possible. All ticket information will be sent once casting is confirmed.

    Photos

    We will have a professional photographer at rehearsals and/or the show.

    ·       You’ll have the option to purchase high-quality images if you wish.

    ·       We will also take plenty of informal photos throughout the process. These will be shared on our social media and privately with families in a way that is easy to access — likely through a shared online folder.

    This allows families to enjoy a wide range of images without any obligation to buy.

     

    QUESTION: ARE THERE ANY DISCOUNTS FOR SIBLINGS?

    We don’t offer sibling discounts. The cost of taking part is the same for every cast member because each child receives the full experience, full supervision, and full set of resources, regardless of whether they have a sibling involved.

    We’ve priced the production as affordably as possible considering everything included.

  • QUESTION: WHAT HAPPENS BACKSTAGE DURING THE SHOW? HOW IS SUPERVISION HANDLED?

    Backstage is a very carefully managed environment, and children are supervised at all times. We follow all theatre and legal requirements, which means we use licensed chaperones and always meet (or exceed) the required adult-to-child ratios.

    Our chaperones are there specifically to look after the children - making sure they’re safe, calm, happy, and exactly where they need to be. There will also be additional adults and team members on hand to support transitions, quick changes, scene cues, and any little moments where someone might need reassurance.

    Children are never left unsupervised, and the backstage area is organised so that everyone knows where they should be and who is looking after them. The aim is for the process to feel exciting, supportive, and well-structured, so children feel confident and parents feel completely comfortable.

     

    QUESTION: ARE STAFF AND CHAPERONES DBS CHECKED?

    Yes — all staff and all licensed chaperones involved in the production will have up-to-date Enhanced DBS checks. Your child’s safety is our absolute priority, and we only work with adults who meet the required safeguarding standards.

     

    QUESTION: WILL THERE BE SOMEONE FIRST AID TRAINED ON SITE?

    Yes. There will always be at least one qualified first aider present at every rehearsal, workshop, and performance. Theatre environments are busy places, so we make sure all health and safety procedures are followed at all times.

     

    QUESTION: WHAT SAFEGUARDING PROCEDURES DO YOU FOLLOW?

    We follow robust safeguarding and child protection procedures to ensure all cast members are kept safe and supported throughout the process.

    All details can be found in our full Policies and Procedures Document, which will be available on our website for parents to read at any time.

  • QUESTION: WILL PHOTOS OR VIDEOS OF THE CAST APPEAR ON SOCIAL MEDIA?

    Yes — because we are creating a public performance, we do use photos and short video clips for publicity, updates, and celebrating the children’s progress. This helps us promote the show, share the journey, and build excitement for ticket sales.

    However, no child will ever be tagged, and we will never use full names on any public platform. We take online safety extremely seriously and are very careful about how we share content.

     

    QUESTION: HOW DO YOU GET CONSENT FOR THIS?

    There is a clear consent section on the audition sign up form where parents can confirm their consent.

  • QUESTION: IS PARKING AVAILABLE AT THE REHEARSAL VENUE?

    Yes — at Ash Manor School there is plenty of parking available both in the school car park and on nearby streets. Parents and guardians can safely drop off and collect children without difficulty.

     

    QUESTION: IS PARKING AVAILABLE AT THE THEATRE VENUE?

    Yes - for the performance week, there is a large multi-storey car park close to the theatre. There will also be a drop-off point at the stage door, making it easy for families to bring children right to the performance entrance. (Exact drop-off instructions will be shared with cast families closer to the show date.)

     

    QUESTION: IS THE THEATRE ACCESSIBLE?

    Yes, the theatre is fully accessible. It has level access for wheelchair users, accessible seating, and facilities to support audience members and performers with mobility needs.

    If any parent has specific accessibility questions, we’re always happy to provide more detail.

  • QUESTION: WILL EVERY CHILD GET A ‘MOMENT TO SHINE’?

    Yes, absolutely. We work hard in rehearsals to choreograph and direct the show in a way that gives every child a chance to shine.

    Not every child may have a leading or speaking role, but our aim is that each performer feels visible, valued, and proud of their contribution - whether that’s in movement, group vocals, a key moment in the ensemble, or a featured dance sequence.

    We know how special it is for children to feel confident and seen, and we structure the show to make sure there are opportunities for that for everyone.

     

    QUESTION: ARE PROFESSIONAL LIGHTING, SOUND AND COSTUMES USED?

    Yes - this is one of the really exciting parts of performing in a professional theatre!

    ·       The theatre has a fully rigged professional lighting system and sound equipment.

    ·       Some cast members will use wireless headset microphones as part of their performance (role dependent), giving them a real sense of what it’s like to perform in a professional show.

    ·       Costumes are included for every child. Some children may have more than one costume depending on their role. All costumes are age-appropriate and designed to support movement and comfort.

     

    QUESTION: How long is the show?

    Junior productions are approximately one hour long — the perfect length for young performers and audiences alike.

  • QUESTION: WHY ARE THERE NO (OR VERY FEW) IMAGES OF CHILDREN REHEARSING OR PERFORMING ON YOUR WEBSITE OR SOCIAL MEDIA?

    We are a brand-new company, and we want to be completely transparent about that. Although we could use stock images or photos from shows that aren’t connected to us, we feel that would be misleading - and we never want to give the impression that we’re selling something we haven’t actually created yet.

    Before 1st March (our audition date), any photos you see of children on this website or on our social media are of Theatre Foundation students, who have given consent for their images to be used. These photos showcase the previous work of our director and choreographer, but they are not from Theatre Productions’ own shows, simply because our first production hasn’t happened yet.

    As soon as we begin rehearsals and performances with Theatre Productions, you will start seeing plenty of genuine rehearsal shots, performance photos, and behind the scenes moments from our actual cast.

    QUESTION: YOU’RE A NEW BUSINESS, WHY SHOULD WE TRUST YOU? WHAT EXPERIENCE DO YOU HAVE?

    Although Theatre Productions is a new company, the team behind it is far from new.

    You will be able to see from our ‘Meet the Team’ section more about our experience in this industry, be sure to check it out!

    I (the director/producer) have spent many years directing and teaching children through my theatre school, where families have trusted me to shape their children’s confidence, skills, and childhood memories. I’ve even taught at local primary schools for many years too (shout out to St Pauls, Tongham and Ash Grange Primary!).

    Many children have been taught by me (and by our choreographer) for years and their words speak louder than anything I could say…

    “They (Kelsey and Lauren) let each and every child shine in the shows, supporting them to achieve their best and the smiles from both children and parents alike shows what a wonderful company this is!” - A Theatre Foundations parent

    “Kelsey is so wonderful with the children, she is always encouraging and supportive and allows them to see the best in themselves. From a parents perspective, Kelsey is a dream to deal with. She is so organised and her communication is always clear and thorough.” - A Theatre Foundations parent.

    “Show day is very exciting, the anticipation for the moment when the curtain goes up is incredible!” - A Theatre Foundations student.