The Expert: Debora Wondercheck is the Executive Director of the Arts & Learning Conservatory in Costa Mesa, Ca. She has a heart for helping children develop their talents and a love for performing art.
TVM: Exactly what is “performing arts”?
Wondercheck: These are the arts that are performed before an audience- Theater, Dance, Choir, Instrumental etc..
Wondercheck: Our programs are not just about performing plays or singing. Children learn many life skills that benefit them long into the future.
- They learn how to be confident – everyone is important; everyone gets a role; everyone learns something new in this very positive and nurturing environment.
- How to be a team player – being in the cast, dance member or orchestra member helps kids to learn about being a team member – everyone relies on everyone else.
- How to be a public speaker – a performance offers a controlled environment where kids can learn to speak clearly in front of an audience.
- How to be gracious and helpful – whether they have a lead or a supporting role, kids learn to make the most of their parts and perform at their best; they learn to respect and support their fellow actors.
- How to stick to a commitment – children learn to show up at a weekly rehearsal prepared to do their best.
- How to take direction – children learn how to respectfully follow directions.
- How to express themselves – our classes offer a safe environment for kids to creatively express themselves.
- How to have fun! No explanation needed!
Wondercheck: Parents should look for a place that is focused on walking students through the process of the arts and not just focus on the final product. There are many “performing arts programs” here in our county that focus on prepping students for Hollywood, stage, and being “a star” but bypass the importance of developing their character. Children need to be children and to grow through the process of the arts with enjoyment and understanding.
Wondercheck: Our classes are perfect for the shy child as well as the outgoing child. We offer a safe place for the children as we instruct through exercises, games and techniques that draw even the quietest child out and productively channels the energy of the outgoing.
TVM: How much parent participation is expected?
Wondercheck: Parents are expected assist their child with rehearsing/reviewing materials taught in class. With our theater productions ( Broadway Players- ages 8-12; Theater Troupe -ages 12-17) parents assist with elements of the production ( sets, gift table, make-up, concessions etc). We see family involvement as part of our building community and this cohesiveness is what the Arts & Learning Conservatory is known for, so family involvement is encouraged.
Wondercheck: Take them to see musicals, orchestral performances, piano recitals..place them in group lessons or classes. The more exposure we bring to our children the sooner they can find their niche and grow in an art form they will keep with them the rest of their lives.
Wanna see these talented kids in action?
Arts & Learning Conservatory’s latest production is Beauty & the Beast, Jr. They have 3 shows: Nov. 18th at 7p and Nov. 19th at 11a and 5p. If your going with little ones (and you know those rascals would love this), I recommend the 11a show…kids seem to be on their best behavior at that time. Get more info about the show here.