We are excited to welcome you to our youth theater program! As a parent of a theater student, you may be wondering what to expect from this enriching experience. Following is an overview of our youth theater program, what your child will learn and what you can look forward to during the production.

Our Productions

Our youth theater shows are licensed productions that include high quality musical orchestration recordings and scripts.  The shows are full, age-appropriate productions directed by our professional Directors with years of theater experience.  This is a “teaching program” that is inclusive of all students.  No experience required.  Every student who enrolls is guaranteed a role (or multiple roles).  Auditions are not required to join the production, but auditions are required in order for our Directors to assign roles.  Cold reading is done in the first rehearsal and singing auditions are usually held during the second rehearsal of most productions.  We limit our shows to 27 or fewer students.  If we have more than 27 students we will form an additional cast.  We do this so our Directors can dedicate more time to each student and improve their growth in the theatrical arts.  Multiple casts also provide us a built-in “under study” for every role in every cast should we need to fill a role along the way.  Multiple casts also means more opportunities for leading and secondary roles.  Students will have a great time, make friends, and build relationships while learning and growing in the theatrical arts.

Learning Experience

Participating in a theater production is a comprehensive educational journey. Your child will develop a variety of skills, including:

• Acting Techniques:  Students will learn how to embody their characters, understand script analysis, and deliver lines with emotion and clarity.
• Collaboration:  Theater is a team effort. Your child will work closely with peers, learning the importance of communication, trust, and support in a collaborative environment.
• Creative Expression:  Students will explore their creativity through character development, improvisation, and storytelling, allowing them to express themselves in unique ways.

Costumes

Costumes play a vital role in bringing a production to life.  Costumes are not included in the program fee and must be obtained by the student family.  Most costumes can be purchased for under $50, custom made, or assembled with items around your home, thrift stores, or borrowing from friends and family.  Our Directors and production coordinators will offer guidance and suggestions to help with the look and feel for continuity with the show and other actors and actresses.  In certain situations the school might provide role-specific accessories or props.

Choreography

For productions that include dance or movement, students will learn choreography during rehearsals. They will learn how to integrate movement with their acting, enhancing their performance and adding depth to the storytelling. This aspect of theater encourages physical expression and helps build confidence.

Theater Tech

Behind the scenes, students will gain insight into the technical aspects of theater, including lighting, sound, and set design. They will learn how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere of the production. This knowledge is invaluable, as it fosters an appreciation for the collaborative nature of theater.

Microphones

To ensure that every performance is heard clearly, we provide microphones for each student. This allows them to focus on their performance without worrying about projection, enabling them to deliver their lines with confidence. Students will receive training on how to use the microphones effectively, which is an essential skill in modern theater.

Other Aspects of Theatrical Arts

In addition to acting, choreography, and technical skills, your child will also learn about stage management, audience engagement, improvisation, and the importance of rehearsal discipline. They will experience the thrill of live performance, understanding the hard work and dedication that goes into each show.

Private/Closed Rehearsals

Please note that per licensing contract and in the interest of safety, only actors/actresses, staff, crew, volunteers, and other production coordinators are allowed in the recital hall during rehearsals.

Student Conduct

We strive to create a safe, positive and respectful learning environment for all participants and aim to foster creativity, collaboration, and personal growth while ensuring that all students understand their responsibilities and the expectations of behavior.  We expect students to arrive on time, prepared, and ready to engage in the lesson. Respect for the instructor, fellow students, and the learning space is paramount; this includes listening attentively, refraining from disruptive behaviors, and maintaining a positive attitude. Students are encouraged to express themselves and ask questions, but must do so in a manner that is considerate of others. Any behavior that undermines the learning experience, such as excessive talking, distractions, or disrespectful comments, will be addressed promptly. Our goal is to foster a supportive community where every student can thrive and develop their musical talents.

For all our policies please visit our polices page:

https://jieun-lee-music-academy.odoo.com/policies

Length of Show

Kids productions (7 to 12 year olds) are usually a single act show lasting 30 to 40 minute.  Junior productions (5th grade and up) are usually two act shows lasting 60 to 70 minutes with a 15 minute intermission.

Rehearsals

Fishers:  Rehearsals are in The Switch Theatre inside Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy.  Final shows are in same theater.

Carmel:  Rehearsals are in Goodwin Hall inside Meridian Music School.  Spring and Fall shows are held at The Switch Theatre.  Summer camp shows are held in Goodwin Hall.

Auditions

Auditions are not required to participate in our theater programs.  Every student who enrolls in the program is guaranteed a role (perhaps multiple roles).  There is a cold reading audition during the first rehearsal and a singing audition during the second rehearsal.  The songs for the singing audition will be taught during the first rehearsal.  This approach allows our Directors to make the best decision for role assignments.  Our Directors make their decisions based on students’ performance during the first and second rehearsals and which students they believe best fit the unique needs of each character in the show.

Program Fee

Includes the following:

• Script
• Music tracks
• Rehearsals
• Shows (2 to 3 shows per production)
• Show T-Shirt
• Video (only when video license available).  Most shows have video license.

Audio/Video Recording

Please note these programs are copyrighted works of art.  Recording any portion of the show is prohibited, but most (not all) productions come with an optional video recording license. If such license is available we will secure the rights to video record the show.  Our theater in Fishers is equipped with professional recording equipment.  When allowed, we will provide a professionally recorded copy of the final show.

Tech Week

Tech week includes at least one regular rehearsal and one dress rehearsal followed by shows on Friday, Saturday, and/or Sunday.

Call Time

60 to 70 minutes before showtime

Locations

Fishers:  The Switch Theatre inside Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy.
Carmel:  Goodwin Hall inside Meridian Music School

Tickets

Final shows are ticketed events with assigned seating.  We will notify families multiple times before the start of ticket sales so everyone has equal opportunity to purchase tickets.  All sales are final.  NO REFUNDS!  Due to assigned seating and the fact most of our shows sell out, we do not refund ticket purchases.  Purchase tickets here:

Switch Theatre:  https://switchtheatre.simpletix.com
Goodwin Hall:  https://goodwinhall.simpletix.com/

The Switch Theatre

All productions (except Carmel summer camps) take place in The Switch Theatre in Fishers.  This black box style theater is located inside Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy.  With comfortable seating for up to 175, our theater has a raised, 30′ x 20′ stage, theatrical lights and special effects, high quality audio, and back stage green rooms for our young actors and actresses.  When entering the theater you are greeted with a nice lobby featuring a concession stand serving many standard concession candies, cotton candy, popcorn, wide variety of drinks, and other concession items.

Enrollment in our youth theater production guarantees your young actress/actor will be cast in the production -- no audition required.  There is an audition (usually during second rehearsal) that Directors need to determine casting.  Students will receive basic audition prep and guidance before audition day.

How to prepare for an audition.

Preparing for a musical theater audition can be both an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. To set yourself up for success, it’s essential to start with a solid understanding of the material you’ll be performing. Choose a song that showcases your vocal range and acting abilities, and make sure it aligns with the character you’re auditioning for. Spend time analyzing the lyrics and the emotions behind them; this will help you deliver a more authentic and compelling performance. Additionally, practice your song repeatedly, focusing on both technical aspects, such as pitch and rhythm, and expressive elements, like dynamics and phrasing. Remember, confidence is key, so the more prepared you are, the more comfortable you will feel on audition day.

In addition to your song, be ready to demonstrate your acting skills and movement abilities. Many auditions will include a cold reading or a dance combination, so familiarize yourself with the material and be open to direction from the audition panel. Always remember to shake the director's hand when you first meet them; this simple gesture shows professionalism and respect. Warm up your body and voice before the audition to ensure you’re in peak condition. It’s also helpful to research the production and its characters, as this knowledge can inform your choices and help you connect with the material on a deeper level. Finally, remember to bring your unique personality to the audition; casting directors are looking for individuals who can bring characters to life in a way that is fresh and engaging. Embrace the experience, and no matter the outcome, view it as an opportunity to learn and grow as a performer.

Things to Do at Home to Prepare for the Audition:

• Choose Your Song: Select a song that fits the character and showcases your vocal strengths.
• Practice Regularly: Set aside time each day to practice singing your chosen song, focusing on both technique and emotion.
• Learn the Lyrics: Memorize the lyrics thoroughly to ensure you can perform confidently without looking at the music.
• Record Yourself:  Use a phone or camera to record your practice sessions. This will help you identify areas for improvement.
• Work on Acting: Practice delivering the song with emotion and character. Consider how the character would feel and express that in your performance.
• Warm-Up Exercises: Incorporate vocal and physical warm-up exercises into your routine to prepare your body and voice.
• Research the Show: Learn about the musical and its characters to better understand the context of your audition piece.
• Mock Auditions: Have family members or friends act as the audition panel and perform your song for them to simulate the audition experience.
• Prepare Your Outfit: Choose an outfit that is appropriate for the audition and makes you feel confident.
• Stay Positive: Practice positive affirmations and visualization techniques to build your confidence and reduce anxiety before the audition.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to shine in your musical theater audition!

Our youth theater productions conclude with 2 or 3 shows on the same weekend.  The shows are ticketed with assigned seating, but unlike many theater companies in the area, we do not have mandatory or minimum ticket purchase requirement.

The enrollment fee includes the following:

• Rehearsals (Kids -12 weeks; Jr. - 15 weeks)
• Professional script
• Professionally recorded practice song tracks with sing-a-long vocals
• Professionally recorded song tracks with no vocals (used during the shows)
• T-Shirt
• Video:  Recording of final show.  Only when video license is available.  Most shows have a video license

The Alley Cats introduce Berlioz, Marie, Toulouse and their mother Duchess — the richest cats in all of Paris ("Prologue/The Aristocats"). When the Aristocats' beloved owner, Madame, announces that she has left them all of her money, Edgar, the family butler, becomes very jealous. While the Aristocats practice singing ("Scales and Arpeggios"), Edgar warms some milk. After they fall asleep, Edgar takes the Aristocats out into the country and leaves them in a ditch.

As the Aristocats wake up, lost and alone, Napoleon and his pack of Country Dogs chase Edgar away ("Use Your Nose"). An Alley Cat named O'Malley discovers the Aristocats ("Thomas O'Malley Cat"), who are surprised to find him friendly. Despite the protests of the other Alley Cats, O'Malley agrees to help the Aristocats find their way home to Madame. Napoleon and the Dogs find the Cats and chase them down. When Marie falls into a river, O'Malley dives in to save her, only to be saved himself by a pair of Geese, Abigail and Amelia ("The Gabble Girls"). The whole gang waddles back to the city.

In Paris, O'Malley and the Alley Cats show the Aristocats the benefits of their freewheeling life ("Ev'rybody Wants to Be a Cat"). Duchess invites O'Malley to come home with her, but he decides to stay in the alley. Surprised to find them home, Edgar traps the Aristocats and prepares to ship them to Timbuktu ("The Cat Wash"). Roquefort the Mouse runs off to get help from O'Malley ("Roquefort to the Rescue/Somebody Is Looking for a Cat"). The Dogs and Geese join the Alley Cats to save the Aristocats and ship Edgar away ("The Butler Did It!/Finale"). Madame celebrates the return of her precious Aristocats and agrees to take in all their friends as her treasured pets ("Ev'rybody Wants to Be a Cat – Bows").

Thomas O'malley

Thomas O'Malley is the charming and charismatic lead alley cat. He lives as a free spirit with no attachments but secretly desires to be part of a family. This role requires a strong actor, singer, and mover. He should also be comfortable flirting with the actress playing Duchess. When auditioning, mix and match your O'Malley and Duchess hopefuls into different pairs and look for the best chemistry. The success of the show largely hinges on the energy of this leading cat so cast your strongest performer in this role.

Gender: male
Vocal range top: D5
Vocal range bottom: A3

Duchess

Duchess is the elegant and nurturing mother of the Aristokittens. This leading role requires small group singing, but no solos, so cast your strongest actor and mover, rather than singer. Look for a mature actress who is able to convey a maternal figure. Try to audition Duchess hopefuls with O'Malleys and Aristokittens to see who works best together.

Gender: female
Vocal range top: Db5
Vocal range bottom: C4

Edgar

Edgar is the villainous butler of Madame. He's allergic to the pampered Aristocats and secretly hates tending to them. This leading part requires one of your strongest and most mature performers with excellent acting and singing skills. Cast an actor who can portray a believable sneeze, possesses excellent comedic timing, and is unafraid to be mean.

Gender: male
Vocal range top: Eb5
Vocal range bottom: A3

Toulouse

Toulouse and Berlioz are Duchess's sons. Since these Aristokittens are in the majority of the scenes but require little solo singing, cast two of your stronger actors who can sing well. Toulouse yearns to be seen as tougher than he is and has a small singing solo, so cast accordingly. If possible, the Aristokittens should be physically smaller than Duchess.

Gender: any
Vocal range top: C5
Vocal range bottom: D4

Berlioz

Toulouse and Berlioz are Duchess's sons. Since these Aristokittens are in the majority of the scenes but require little solo singing, cast two of your stronger actors who can sing well. Berlioz a slightly smaller part than Toulouse and requires no solo singing. If possible, the Aristokittens should be physically smaller than Duchess.

Gender: any
Vocal range top: C5
Vocal range bottom: D4

Marie

Marie is the spirited and sassy daugher of Duchess. She is the youngest child and a charmer just like her mother. Since she's in the majority of the show and has a small singing solo, cast a stronger actor rather than singer. When auditioning, mix and match Aristokitten hopefuls into different trios to see who works best together.

Gender: female
Vocal range top: B4
Vocal range bottom: F#4

Roquefort

Roquefort is the naïve yet ultimately brave house mouse who overcomes his fears and saves the Aristokittens from Edgar. This role requires a strong singer and character actor who can believably play innocent and frightened. If possible, cast someone physically smaller than the Alley Cats to in order emphasize his vulnerability when confronting them. Roquefort can be played by either a girl or a boy.

Gender: any
Vocal range top: D6
Vocal range bottom: B3

Madame

Madame is the eccentric and kind human owner of the Aristocats who loves her pets more than anything else in the world. This small character role requires a good actor who possesses the maturity to play a maternal role. She should also be capable of delivering a short singing solo. Since Madame only appears at the beginning and end of the show, consider double casting her as an Alley Cat for the country section of the show.

Gender: female
Vocal range top: A4
Vocal range bottom: C4

General Napoleon

General Napoleon and Private Lafayette are two country dogs in a comedic power struggle throughout the show. Napoleon is the power-hungry leader and Lafayette the not-so-subservient private. These roles do not require solo singing, so cast based on acting and the ability to move like a dog. Since this comic duo feeds off of each other, cast actors who can work well together. If you have a small cast, consider double casting them as Alley Cats in the opening number and for "Ev'rybody Wants to Be a Cat." Napoleon and Lafayette can be played by either girls or boys.

Gender: any
Vocal range top: C#5
Vocal range bottom: C4

Private Lafayette

General Napoleon and Private Lafayette are two country dogs in a comedic power struggle throughout the show. Napoleon is the power-hungry leader and Lafayette the not-so-subservient private. These roles do not require solo singing, so cast based on acting and the ability to move like a dog. Since this comic duo feeds off of each other, cast actors who can work well together. If you have a small cast, consider double casting them as Alley Cats in the opening number and for "Ev'rybody Wants to Be a Cat." Napoleon and Lafayette can be played by either girls or boys.

Gender: any
Vocal range top: C#5
Vocal range bottom: C4

Vichy

Vichy and Soisse are two privates in the dog army who report to General Napoleon. These are smaller acting roles that require good movers and solid singing voices appropriate for small group singing. If you have a small cast, consider double casting them as Alley Cats in the opening number and for "Ev'rybody Wants to Be a Cat."

Gender: any
Vocal range top: C#5
Vocal range bottom: C4

Soisse

Vichy and Soisse are two privates in the dog army who report to General Napoleon. These are smaller acting roles that require good movers and solid singing voices appropriate for small group singing. If you have a small cast, consider double casting them as Alley Cats in the opening number and for "Ev'rybody Wants to Be a Cat."

Gender: any
Vocal range top: C#5
Vocal range bottom: C4

Amelia

Amelia and Abigail are the two bold geese sisters who rescue O'Malley from the river and lead the way out of the country back to Paris. These comedic characters sing a duet (but no solos), so cast solid singers and actors. It's also important for Amelia and Abby to be able to move convincingly as geese. If you have a small cast, consider double casting them as Alley Cats in the opening number and for "Ev'rybody Wants to Be a Cat".

Gender: female
Vocal range top: C#5
Vocal range bottom: C#4

Abigail

Amelia and Abigail are the two bold geese sisters who rescue O'Malley from the river and lead the way out of the country back to Paris. These comedic characters sing a duet (but no solos), so cast solid singers and actors. It's also important for Amelia and Abby to be able to move convincingly as geese. If you have a small cast, consider double casting them as Alley Cats in the opening number and for "Ev'rybody Wants to Be a Cat".

Gender: female
Vocal range top: C#5
Vocal range bottom: C#4

Scat Cat

Scat Cat is the jazzy leader of the Alley Cat narrators. He or she is ultra hip and enjoys introducing the Aristocats to jazz music. Scat Cat leads the song "Ev'rybody Want to Be a Cat" so cast a strong singer and smooth mover. When auditioning, look for a child that's willing to go over-the-top on both movement and acting improvisations. The more creative and able to perform outside the box, the better. Scat Cat can be played by either a girl or a boy.

Gender: any
Vocal range top: C#5
Vocal range bottom: A3

The Alley Cats (Hep, Mad, Slick And Wacky)

The Alley Cats (Hep, Mad, Slick and Wacky), although small acting parts, are the glue that holds Disney's The Aristocats KIDS together. These storytellers set up and comment on the action as well as execute the scene changes. These roles require actors with strong speaking voices who can focus onstage for long periods of time. They should also have good memories for the more complicated blocking of scene changes and transitions. Casting extra Alley Cats is a great way to use additional children you may have. Depending upon ability, they can take part in all or only some of the production numbers which call for the Alley Cats. Use some strong singers in these roles to help fill out the sound of the chorus.

• Prologue/The Aristocats
• Scales and Arpeggios
• Night, Kittens
• Use Your Nose
• O'Malley Enters
• Thomas O'Malley Cat
• The Gabble Girls
• Ev'rbody Wants to Be a Cat
• Timbuktu
• Roquefort to the Rescue
• Somebody is Looking for a Cat
• Use Your Nose (Reprise)
• The Butler Did It/Finale
• Ev'rbody Wants to Be a Cat