1) My child is 7 but will be 8 before the end of the production. Can s/he still enroll?

        Acceptance of younger children is decided on a case by case basis. In general, it is our belief that the rigorous rehearsal and production schedule might be too much for a younger child, which is why we set the “bar” at age 8.

2) Do you offer scholarships?

        Scholarships are usually awarded for each production/program, are based on financial need, and are dependent upon the amount of money available for scholarships. Scholarship applications should be submitted at the time of registration, along with the registration fee, registration form and medical release form.

3) If I’m applying for a scholarship, do I still need to pay the registration fee?

        Yes. All participants must pay the registration fee of $95 (per child) regardless of scholarship status. Scholarships are awarded for tuition fees only.

4) When will I know my child is cast in the show?

        By registering your child for our program they are automatically in the show. The audition process is the means by which we determine where to place your child in the show. Casting is announced within 2 days of the auditions.  Those children on the waiting list will be cast as space in the production becomes available.

5) What if I don’t like the part my child received? Can I withdraw him/her?

        Yes, but you will not receive a full refund of your tuition.  The refund policy and drop dates are done on a show by show basis. Please refer to the individual show’s production policy for specific withdrawal dates.

6) When are rehearsals?

        Typically, rehearsals are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and Sundays from 12:30-4:30 p.m. Depending on the director and size of the show, principals sometimes have Saturday afternoon rehearsals as well. These dates and times change during tech week.

7) Where are rehearsals?

        To location of rehearsal and performances are dependant on the particular program.

8) What is “Tech Week”?

        This refers to the 2 week period of time prior to opening. Typically, these rehearsals are Monday-Friday from 5:00-9:00 p.m. In the past KOB has provided a meal at 5:00 p.m., and rehearsal begins promptly at 5:30 p.m.  Children should bring a light (non-sugar) snack for the 15 minute break.

9) What is “Parent Orientation” and is attendance mandatory?

        Parent Orientation is a mandatory meeting. One parent from each family must attend. We go over the nuts and bolts of the production, as well as the ways in which you can help the production be a success. (See number 13 below.)

10) We have conflicts with the rehearsal schedule. What should we do?

        At the parent orientation meeting, please fill out, to the best of your ability, the rehearsal conflict form, located in the Parent Handbook. We need to know as soon as possible when you child will not be at rehearsal, so that the rehearsal schedule can be adjusted accordingly, if necessary. Additionally, there is a deadline for submitting rehearsal conflicts, which is listed on the Rehearsal Conflict form.

11) What are “Rehearsal Supervisor Hours”?

        All parents take turns functioning as Rehearsal Supervisors. Parents take an active role in keeping the kids focused during rehearsal, by asking them to be quiet and pay attention to the director(s).

12) Do I have to pay for my child’s costume(s)?

        Yes. It is the parent’s responsibility to pay for and provide any costumes necessary for their child(ren). This information is presented at a Parent Costume Meeting, which occurs after the show has been cast. Attendance at this meeting is mandatory.

13) I’ve heard there’s parent participation. Is this correct?

        Yes. One aspect of KOB that makes it a unique theater organization in the Santa Cruz area is the family involvement. KOB requires 30 parent volunteer hours for each family. We find this enchances the entire family experience and offers everyone a real sense of community. There are many fun ways to complete these parent volunteer hours and help create a more professional show: by building/painting awesome sets, making/finding costumes, applying make-up, working on publicity, the program, designing/selling t-shirts & other FUNdraising, etc. Most parents realize all their work really helps (and feel a sense of accomplishment/pride) once they witness the end result! It is so much fun for the parents that often
they volunteer to help for the next play, even when their child is not in the show!