Theatre School FAQs

1. How are classes filled? 
We fill classes by a first come first served basis.

2. When will we find out which class we have been accepted into? 
We will mail out letters as soon as we process your request. If a class does not have sufficient enrollment after the deadline, we will inform you .This is one reason why we encourage you to mark a second choice on your form. We try, in all cases, to give you your first choice whenever possible. Also, if the class you want is sold out, we will try to schedule another section if we have an available space. 

3. If I want a class and a voice lesson, can the times be coordinated? 
We will work with you and try to schedule both classes as close as possible. With voice lessons, first option is given to returning students, but times can certainly be adjusted.

4. Do you give make up classes?
Students taking voice lessons are given one (1) make up class at the end of the school year. For all other classes, if the same class is offered at different times, it is possible, at the discretion of the teacher, to attend an alternate class as a make up. Otherwise, there are no special times for make ups. The teachers are contracted and rooms are scheduled for specific times only. Make up classes will be scheduled if we cancel a class due to weather or other conflicts.

5. What is your snow cancellation policy? 
We will cancel classes due to snow or other inclement weather using our own discretion. Because of time and teacher constraints, we try to cancel as little as possible. You can find out if we have cancelled a class by calling our Theatre School Hotline at (973) 379-3636 ext. 1815. 

6. Can my 8 year old take a 9 year old offering if he/she will be 9 soon? 
Only if there is room and all 9 year olds have been accommodated first, likewise for all of our other offerings. 

7. Can I switch classes? 
We will try to accommodate you within the first two (2) weeks with classes. If you feel the class you are taking is not the right fit, we can try to enroll you into a different one if there is still room.

8. What is your child to teacher ratio? 
Typically, there are 10-14 students to 1 teacher. Most classes also employ a teacher’s aide or intern. 

9. What is the “All-Stars” and how can I sign up for it?
“All-Stars” and “Children’s Theatre on Tour” are the two outreach components of our Theatre School. These classes tour productions to various local children’s hospitals, nursing homes and schools. The Junior All-Star class as well as the Children’s Theatre on Tour classes are the only ones in which an audition is required. You can only audition for Junior All-Stars if you have completed the Creative Drama I or II course. You need to have taken any “Youth Theatre” course with us to be able to audition for the Children’s Theatre on Tour class. Auditions are in March.

10. My child has taken similar courses to Creative Drama 1 and has a lot of experience; can he/she still try out for All-Stars? 
No, we ask that you complete the required courses with us before you audition for these classes. All-Stars is a privilege that we ask you work towards by completing certain courses.

11. Where are your classes held? 
All of our classes are held here at the Paper Mill Playhouse in various locations throughout the building (Black Box Studio, Carriage House, and Gallery.) 

12. How long are class sessions? 
Typically, classes are an hour or an hour and a half long once a week. You will be mailed a schedule of your class (es) with your acceptance letter. Please look closely at this schedule and take note of the dates. All dates are subject to change. 

13. How are behavior issues handled? 
Our teachers are skilled at handling any behavioral problem that may arise. The teacher will first give a warning to the student. Should the problem continue, we will reach out to the parent(s)/guardian(s). Should the problem continue after that, we will ask that the student not return to that class. We ask for your full cooperation in these matters. 

14. What is a “sharing?” 
Because most classes are not tied to a production, we offer what is called a “sharing” on the last day of class. These are informal classes where family and friends are invited in to watch a typical class or watch a presentation. Not all sharings are alike or contain a performance per say. The content of sharings will be determined by the teacher. 

15. Have any other questions?
Please call Mickey McNany, Theatre School Director, at (973) 379-3636 ext. 1669.

Thank you and we look forward to a wonderful Theatre School year!