STUDIO CLASSES
Upstage Concepts offers weekly acting and public speaking classes, vocal (singing) classes, modelling and etiquette classes taught by various professional coaches. We prepare our students for competitions, casting and audition opportunities.
At Upstage Concepts we focus on competition work and participate in the following:
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South African Championships of Performing Arts
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Kids and Youth Talent Festival
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National Eisteddfod of South Africa
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World Championships of Performing Arts
Competition training includes all aspects of preparation of items, from script or song selection, to final presentation. Competition training takes place outside of normal weekly lessons and further information regarding the specific competitions is handed out at relevant times throughout the year.
Why do we do competitions instead of exams? In our experience, the benefit of drama, vocal and modelling performances far outweighs the benefit of exams. This is not always the case in performing arts - sometimes in dance and instruments examinations can be very effective and essential. Our children are continually assessed in the school system, and the experience of performance and having people applaud them and recognize their talent is far more enjoyable than a closed room examination. The TV and film industry, as well as contemporary music industry, do not require formal examinations for their success. In addition, our children are entering a very competitive world when they complete their schooling, and even more so, a competitive industry if they choose the arts. Students who have developed a competitive spirit and the ability to perform under pressure, stand a far better chance of success in both the industry and the world at large.
PRODUCTIONS
Upstage Concepts produces an annual production which is performed at one of Johannesburg's iconic theatres. This production is open to all Upstage Concepts Students who attend studio lessons.
Rehearsals take place on Saturday mornings between February and April and the show is performed in early May each year. More information is provided in January each year.
In addition, we do theatre sport evenings and other showcase events.
WHAT OUR PARENTS SAY
The way our children grow, blossom and shine under your guidance is simply beyond words. 🙏🏼👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻💗 ~ Sheree Roux
Outstanding show, such amazing talent! The cast was brilliant and it's so special to see the kids in the “smaller” roles be inspired to grow and reach for the stars! ~ Chantal Lawson
Jill Avis, Donnaley Parker, Joshua Parker, you are amazing - what a show, such talent - thank you for everything you do for our kids ❤️❤️❤️ ~ Tamilla Busansky
Magical Production. Thank-you Thank-you Thank-you Jill, Josh & Dons 🎭🕺🕺🏾💃🏽💃🤩🌟 It was a spectacular performance, so glad we watched both shows !!! Giving kids a chance to perform, shine with fellow peers is so special 💖💙 ~ Lara Murphy