Feature: YOUTH THEATRE OPPORTUNITIES at Local Performing Arts Groups

"Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything." Plato really does sum up the importance of musical theater quite nicely. According to The Broadway League's annual research, during "the 2017-2018 season, Broadway shows welcomed 13.8 million admissions." A stunning number, to be sure! Of those 13.8 million, 2.1 million were children; which is only about 15% of total admissions. Research shows the majority of today's adult theatergoers have some kind of connection to theatergoing as a child. With a percentage as low as 15%, it is a bit concerning to think of what might happen if more children are not exposed to this incredible experience.

With this in mind as we start a new school year, we wanted to take a moment to make you aware of some of the incredible theatre opportunities in our community. While this is not an all-encompassing list, these are a few with a proven track record of high-caliber theatre opportunities for young people.

Circle Christian Arts Academy - A school dedicated to the education of students in the areas of art, dance, acting, theater, ensemble vocals, filmmaking, media graphics and animation. Our student ages range from 2-to-18 covering a wide variety of progressive learning.

Tuition: $25 application fee plus $30-$70 a month depending on the class

Contact Info: 941-792-7024 info@explorecircle.com

Website: www.explorecircle.com

Ovation School of Musical Theatre - offering classes to teach the tools and techniques necessary as well as inspire and motivate passionate students to become the best they can be as a performing artist whether it be as a hobby or professional, while nurturing the excitement and creativity of their individual spirit.

Tuition: Varies by class

Contact info: 941-400-4854

Website: https://ovation-musicalschool.com/

Players Kids - The Players Kids represent The Players Studio at community events, public appearances, and in a staged production. It features all children ages 7 - 17. They also are required to enroll in at least 1 class with The Players Centre. Each student takes a class of choice as well as attends regularly scheduled Saturday morning rehearsals.

Tuition: $300 plus costumes and competition

Audition (Sept. 7) and Contact Info: 941-365-2494

Website: www.theplayers.org

Rise Above Performing Arts - a youth community theatre for students in grades 6-12. Rise Above produces 4 full-scale Broadway style musicals annually (This year's shows are School of Rock, Glory Days, West Side Story and Bring It On). They also have a Show Choir that meets year-round and participates in community outreach events.

Tuition: None

Audition and Contact Info: 941-704-4747 info@riseabovearts.com

Website: www.riseabovearts.com

Spotlight Theatre Productions - Youth based training in musical theatre for students in grades 1-12. Students meet weekly and receive instruction in all facets of musical theatre. Spotlight participates in the Junior Theatre Festival in Atlanta, Ga and Access Broadway in Orlando, FL.

Tuition: Monthly Tuition plus costumes and competition

Audition and Contact Info: triple212121@gmail.com

Website: http://spotlightkidsperform.com/

Woodland Fine Arts Academy - This organization provides high quality instruction in a Christian environment for the artist of any age. Our program is designed to meet the students where they are and help them develop the skills and discipline it requires to reach their fullest potential. Whether for use in performance, ministry or personal enjoyment, our desire is to see each person grow in their talent and passion for the arts.

Tuition: $35 Registration Fee and $50-$55 monthly depending on the theatre class

Contact Info: 941-538-7474 fineartsacademy@gowoodland.com

Website: http://www.woodlandfineartsacademy.com/

Photo Credit: Bonnie Telinger

Tuition Information was obtained from each organization's website or contact. Please contact them directly for a current list of any fees.