The Student Showcase FAQ
Our annual school performance is held at the end of the second semester (early June). The performance usually begins with a half-hour story ballet performed by students from all of our classes. Then we move into a half-hour of song, theatrics and incredible dance by our students in the jazz, tap, musical theatre, and modern classes. A reception for the dancers always follows the performance.
How long is your show? (I have been to shows that are 3 - 4 hours or more!)
Our end of the year Showcases typically are around one and a half hours in length, including a short intermission. You may be unable to believe it but this is so! Ask any of our parents or students about how we run the shows: you'll see that we are professional, fast, and high-quality.
How much do you charge for your end-of-the-year show?
Nothing! For our end-of-the-year Showcases, we never charge admission fees. We do of course charge a Show Fee to help defray the expenses of the theatre rental but this is very reasonable since you can invite as many people as you wish to our shows. We do not charge for the reception afterwards either.
Well then, how much do costumes cost?
Unlike many other area studios, we keep our costumes charges low and pass on the savings to our parents/students. Typically, costumes can range from around $45 to $55 and often we can utilize the same costume with slight changes in two different pieces so that also saves on buying another outfit!
Do parents have to participate in your shows?
No...although we certainly do not turn away anyone who wishes to perform. In our Nutcracker, for example, many roles are played by parents and relatives of students at our school. We strive to create positive, creative environments at CAA and our shows are no exception. So when parents and friends of students participate, they wind up having a great time, enjoying a special experience together.
__________________________________________________
Each December students in Levels I - VII have the opportunity to perform in our full-length performances of The Nutcracker, which features guest artists from a major ballet company in the roles of The Sugar Plum Fairy and Her Cavalier.
Says Director Julie Knowles, "This Nutcracker production is for the Collierville community – it provides children and their families from Collierville and the surrounding areas an opportunity to be the stars in a full length ballet.”