Policies and FAQ
+ When does the Studio announce quarterly theater classes?
The Fall quarter class schedule will be posted on the website in August, Mini Winter and Winter quarter class schedules are posted in October, and the Spring quarter schedules are posted in March. Our Summer Camp schedule will be posted in February. You can get advance e-mail notification by contacting our Education Director.
Class registration starts as soon as class schedules are posted on the website or made available in hard copy, which is at least 6 weeks before classes begin.
+ How does the Studio choose classes?
Classes vary from quarter to quarter based on the availability of instructors and student interest. If you have an idea for a class that we aren’t offering, contact the Education Director – if you have at least six students and we have the space and the instructor, you can create your own class!
+ What are Technique, Play Creation, and Performance classes?
Technique classes are focused on the process of building skills. Students may approach a different topic or theme each class, testing and applying skills in different ways. Memorization will be minimal, or not necessary at all. The final day of class usually involves a showcase where we welcome parents and families to experience the skills students have learned.
Play Creation classes are all about creativity and teamwork. Teaching artists guide students through creating characters, a story outline, and writing a script that will usually be presented for parents and families on the final day of class.
Performance classes are focused on creating a performance piece. Lines and/or songs are memorized, movements are polished, and each class builds on the work done the previous week. The final day of class includes a performance of the finished play, dance, or musical revue.
Currently, due to the pandemic, parents and families are not being invited to attend in-person on the final class day, but we look forward to resuming this as soon as possible.
+ What is your attendance policy?
It’s important all students be in class regularly, arriving and departing on time. If you foresee a conflict with a class, please contact the Studio to talk through options in order to ensure a successful experience for your student, as well as their classmates.
+ How will I know which class is right for my child?
You know your child best! If there’s a particular theme or aspect of a class description that excites them, then that’s the right class.
If your child is particularly shy, then perhaps starting with a Technique class will give them a chance to build some self-confidence without the pressure of a performance at the end.
If they are theatrical at home, then perhaps a Performance class is the right place to focus that energy.
If they really enjoyed working with a particular instructor, then perhaps engaging with that teacher again is a good idea.
There is no “right” pathway through Studio East classes. Each class will give your student new skills and experiences. Our team is always happy to talk through the specifics of each class to help you make the right choice.
+ Does Studio East ever make age exceptions for classes?
Occasionally, we do make exceptions to posted grade levels for classes, depending on the age range of the students enrolled in the class. Social maturity and skill level are important factors to consider when making the best choice for your child. Posted ranges are set to ensure a positive experience for everyone involved. Please talk with the Education Director if you have any questions.
Education Policies
+ Payment policy
Full tuition is due at the time of registration unless a payment plan has been set up with the office.
Financial Aid is available for all Studio East classes. However, an application must be submitted and approved before registering. Unfortunately, we cannot grant, honor, or apply scholarships after your payment has been processed. Learn more about our Scholarship Fund below or contact the main office at info@studio-east.org for more information.
Any relevant discounts or promo codes must be applied when registering your student. We unfortunately cannot grant, honor, or apply discounts after your payment has been processed.
If Studio East needs to cancel camp due to low enrollment you will be notified at least a week in advance and will receive a full refund.
+ Refund Policy
- Class cancelled by Studio East: Full refund.
- Registration canceled 48 hours before class starts: Full cost of class less the $25 registration fee will be refunded, or full cost kept as credit on file*.
- Registration canceled less than 48 hours before class starts OR after 1st class: We will hold the cost of one session of class plus the $25 registration fee. The remaining balance will be held as a credit on file*.
- Registration canceled after 2nd class: No refund or credit.
- Switching between classes has no additional cost based on availability. You will be responsible for any remaining balance.
*Credit can be used to pay for tuition for any Studio East class, camp, or production and is valid for up to one year.
+ Financial Assistance
Studio East is proud to offer a Scholarship Fund to give partial scholarships for all of our programs to students who could not otherwise participate. Apply for a scholarship here.
Turnaround for scholarships are usually 1-2 weeks and are evaluated by our scholarship committee. More questions on tuition or scholarships? Contact our Office Manager Amanda McGee.
+ Code of Conduct
We at Studio East value each and every individual. In order to create an environment where each student has the freedom to grow, both as a performer and as an individual, Studio East does not tolerate the following:
- Fighting with another student, faculty, volunteer or parent
- Destruction or theft of Studio East property or materials
- Disrespect towards oneself or others
- Use of inappropriate language and/or innuendo
- Racial or sexual harassment (including inappropriate physical contact)
If a student breaks this code of conduct, their registration may be cancelled without refund or credit given. Thanks for working with us to create a safe and welcoming place for all of our students.
+ Additional Questions?
Please let us know how our Teaching Team can understand your student’s needs better – Email Kaysy Ostrom, Education Director
