Frequently Asked Questions

Does my child need previous acting experience to join Play on Stage?

Not at all. Play on Stage welcomes students of all experience levels, including young people who are completely new to drama and performance. Our classes are designed to support students as they build confidence, creativity, and performance skills over time in a safe and encouraging environment. Whether your child already loves performing or is simply curious about trying something new, our facilitators work to ensure every student feels included and supported. You can explore our Primary Drama Classes, Teen Acting Ensemble, and Musical Theatre programs to find the best fit for your young person.

Do you offer trial classes?

Yes, trial classes are available, though these are organised directly through the Artistic Director rather than through standard enrolment. This allows us to make sure the class is the right fit for the student and that there is availability within the program. Trial classes can be particularly helpful for students who are new to drama or feeling a little nervous about joining for the first time. If you are interested in arranging a trial, please contact the Play on Stage team to discuss suitable class options.

Are your productions compulsory?

Yes. Our end of semester productions are an important part of the Play on Stage experience and all students enrolled in our term based programs are expected to participate. These productions give students the opportunity to apply the skills they have developed throughout the semester in a live performance setting. We approach our productions with genuine care and professionalism, creating an exciting and rewarding experience for young performers. Participation also helps students develop confidence, teamwork, resilience, and ensemble awareness both on and off the stage.

What happens in a typical drama class?

Each Play on Stage class combines performance training with creativity, collaboration, and ensemble building. Depending on the age group and program, students may participate in acting exercises, improvisation, script work, movement activities, character development, and rehearsal processes. Our classes are designed to feel engaging and supportive while gradually building towards end of semester performances. Musical theatre classes also include singing and movement based activities. Every session is structured to encourage confidence, imagination, and creative risk taking in an inclusive environment.

Do students need to audition to join?

No auditions are required for our weekly term based classes or student productions. Registration is all that is needed to join a class, subject to availability. We believe drama should be accessible to young people of all experience levels and confidence levels. Auditions are only required for selected professional productions outside of our regular class programs. Some classes do reach capacity and may operate with a waitlist, so we encourage families to enrol early where possible.

How do you support neurodivergent students or students with additional needs?

Play on Stage is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all young people. Our facilitators use a range of pedagogical approaches to support neurodivergent students and students with additional needs throughout classes and rehearsals. We understand that every student learns and engages differently, and we work to create spaces where young people feel safe, respected, and encouraged creatively. Families are welcome to discuss any support requirements with the Artistic Director before enrolment so we can help determine the best fit for your child.

Are parents able to watch classes?

To help students stay focused and fully engaged in the rehearsal process, parents and guardians are generally asked not to observe classes. We find this helps create a more comfortable and collaborative environment for young performers, particularly as students build confidence and creative trust within the ensemble. Families are, however, warmly invited to attend end of semester productions and performances, where students have the opportunity to share the work they have developed throughout the term.

What should students wear to class?

Students should wear comfortable clothing they can move freely in during drama activities and rehearsals. Closed in shoes are recommended for safety and movement based exercises. For productions, students are often asked to source basic costume items such as theatre blacks, while Play on Stage works collaboratively with students and families to develop additional props or costume pieces where needed. Specific costume requirements are communicated well in advance of performances.

Are your facilitators qualified to work with young people?

Yes. All Play on Stage facilitators hold active Blue Cards and undertake child specific first aid training. Our facilitators have also completed or are currently undertaking tertiary study in relevant creative or educational fields. Beyond qualifications, our team is passionate about supporting young people through creativity, storytelling, and performance. We place strong importance on creating safe, respectful, and encouraging learning environments where students can grow artistically and personally.

Can students join after the term has already started?

In many cases, yes. Depending on class capacity and where the group is within the rehearsal process, students may still be able to join after the term has begun. Pro rata fees may also apply in some situations. Because our programs work progressively towards productions across the semester, earlier enrolment is generally recommended. Families interested in joining mid term are encouraged to contact the Artistic Director to discuss available options and determine whether a class is the right fit at that stage of the term.

Do you offer payment plans or discounts?

Payment plans may be available for families who require additional flexibility, though these arrangements are discussed directly with the Director on a case by case basis. Sibling discounts or discounts for students participating in multiple programs may also be considered at the Director’s discretion. We understand that arts participation is an important investment for families and aim to support accessibility where possible. If you would like to discuss payment options before enrolling, please get in touch with our team.

What makes Play on Stage different from other drama programs?

Play on Stage places strong emphasis on both artistic quality and student wellbeing. Our programs are designed not only to teach acting and performance skills, but also to foster confidence, collaboration, empathy, and creativity. We approach our end of semester productions with the same level of care and energy that goes into our professional youth productions, giving students the opportunity to participate in meaningful theatrical experiences. Alongside skill development, we focus on creating an inclusive and supportive community where young people feel creatively empowered.