Productions

Full-scale productions in a supportive environment — where the process matters as much as the performance.

find out more & register

what to expect

  • A young boy in a gray coat and black bow tie holding a vintage brown suitcase, standing in front of a painted theatrical set background.

    Audition

    Auditions at Jitterbug are welcoming, low-pressure, and designed to help each child feel seen and supported. We use this time to get to know your child’s energy, voice, personality, and comfort level, so we can cast them in a role that fits and challenges them in all the right ways. No experience is necessary — just a willingness to participate and have fun!

    What to expect: kids may be asked to sing a short song, read a few lines, and participate in a group warm-up or game.

  • Group of seven children dressed in colorful casual outfits, posing and smiling in front of a red curtain backdrop.

    Weekly Rehearsals

    Once the cast is set, we meet weekly for rehearsals that blend theater games, movement, music, scene work, and collaboration. Our directors guide the cast through the full production process — teaching blocking, line delivery, vocal work, and choreography in a way that’s engaging, empowering, and age-appropriate.

    We build in brain breaks, community-building, and play, so rehearsals feel fun while still preparing kids for performance. As the show approaches, we may add one or two extra rehearsals for polishing and dress runs.

    Rehearsals are typically 2-3 hours, twice per week for the length of the production process. Details are available prior to auditioning.

  • Two performers on stage, one holding the other, in front of a blue backdrop with a unicorn and stars. One performer wears a blue dress, the other a silver shirt and black hat.

    Final Performance

    At the end of the process, we bring it all to life with a full-scale performance! Costumes, lights, music, and audience energy come together as the cast takes the stage — they’ll feel proud, accomplished, and celebrated for all the work they’ve put in.

    Our performances are family-friendly, child-centered, and focused on the process — not perfection. Whether they have a solo or a group scene, every child gets a moment to shine and share their hard work with the people who love them most.

  • Child in a tea pot costume on stage during a play, with painted backdrop and props.

    Opportunities Beyond the Spotlight

    Not every performer wants to be center stage — and we love that. Our productions offer opportunities for kids to get involved behind the scenes too, whether it's helping with costumes, props, set pieces, or stage crew support. Being part of the production process — onstage or off — gives kids a sense of ownership, teamwork, and creative problem-solving that’s just as magical as the performance itself.

  • Children and a woman laughing and singing on a stage, dressed in colorful costumes for a performance.

    A Creative Process They Help Shape

    At Jitterbug, kids aren’t just cast — they’re co-creators. From shaping characters to contributing movement or staging ideas, our productions are intentionally designed to give young performers a voice in the process. This kind of creative ownership builds pride, investment, and deeper connection to the story they’re helping bring to life.

  • Group of four young women in colorful costumes performing on stage, with a background of a painted building facade, during a theatrical dance performance.

    Growth On and Off the Stage

    Performing arts aren't just about memorizing lines or hitting your mark — they’re about building real-life skills that last a lifetime. Through the rehearsal and performance process, kids develop resilience, confidence, empathy, communication, and emotional awareness — tools they’ll carry with them far beyond the stage.

    Learning to collaborate with a cast, take creative risks, speak clearly in front of an audience, adapt in real time, and recover from mistakes with grace — these are the experiences that help kids grow into confident, capable, expressive humans.

 production FAQs

  • Our shows are open to kids ages 6–15, depending on the production. We welcome both new and experienced performers!

  • Yes — but auditions are gentle and fun. We use them to get to know your child and place them in a role where they’ll feel confident and challenged.

  • Depending on the show and season, rehearsals may run from 4-12 weeks. Full schedules are shared up front.

  • We understand that families have full schedules — and we do our best to be flexible. Each cast member is allowed up to 3 absences during the rehearsal process, as long as there is clear communication in advance and your child is willing to practice at home to stay on track with the group.

    That said, Tech Week and Performances are mandatory. These final rehearsals are essential for pulling the show together and ensuring every child feels confident and supported on stage. If your family has a known conflict with performance dates, we recommend joining us for a future production!

  • Fees typically include rehearsals, direction, materials, some costume elements, and production support. Families may be asked to provide small costume pieces or props — we’ll keep it simple and manageable!

  • Yes, we do sell tickets to our productions — and we promise it’s worth it! Ticket sales help cover the costs of costumes, sets, staff, props, lighting, and venue rental, allowing us to create a magical and professional experience for both performers and the audience.

    We do our best to offer two complimentary tickets per performer, though this may vary slightly depending on the venue. Full ticket details — including pricing and comps — are provided prior to registration, so you’ll always know what to expect.

    Performers do not need a ticket, and additional friends and family are always encouraged to attend and support your star!

  • It is hard when things don’t go as hoped. We approach casting with great care, considering each child’s personality, strengths, and growth opportunities. While not everyone will receive their first-choice role, every part is meaningful, and the full ensemble is essential to bringing the show to life.

    We work closely with kids after casting to help them understand their role, feel empowered in it, and find pride in their contribution. Time and time again, we've seen kids fall in love with unexpected parts, build resilience, and grow in confidence — which is, ultimately, one of the most valuable things theater can teach.