(What Parents of Young Performers Should Know)
Many of our youngest cast members have thrived with the demands of our rehearsal and performance schedule, while others have found it to be more than they were ready for. We want parents to know the reality of our January schedule.
Amherst Community Theater brings together actors of all ages and strives for high production values. Therefore, our technical rehearsals and performances are longer than those of children’s theater programs you may be familiar with. Parents should be aware that our tech and performance schedules in January do involve some long days and late nights. You should expect that tech rehearsals may not end until 10:00 pm or later and that performance nights may not end until close to 11:00 pm. These long rehearsals and performances are tiring but also fun and exhilarating.
We also have a double show day (matinee and evening) on the Saturday of the second weekend of performances which makes for a long day for all actors and crew. There is a break in between the shows for dinner and relaxation, but it is a very full day. Cast members, including youngsters, enjoy this experience very much.
During the fall rehearsal period, we try to release our youngest cast members early on weeknight rehearsals, but sometimes they are needed until 9:00 pm.
Every child is different. If you think this schedule may not be the right fit for your child at this time, please consider waiting until they are a little older before they audition. You might consider enrolling them in our Missoula Children’s Theatre production in the spring, which is a wonderful introduction to the magic of theater.
Please reach out to chair@amherstacts.org if you have questions.