FAQ Categories

Click below to read individual Do It With Class FAQs or download them all as a single PDF.

About Do It With Class (DIWC) FAQ

  • Do It With Class Young People’s Theatre Inc. (DIWC) is a Saskatchewan-based theatre company that provides high-level performing arts training for youth ages 8–18. Through professional-quality musical theatre productions, company members develop skills in acting, singing, and dance while working alongside experienced artistic staff.

  • Founded in 1993 by Andorlie Hillstrom, DIWC provides talented young Saskatchewan performers with opportunities to develop their skills and perform in full-scale musical theatre productions. DIWC is a registered non-profit organization governed by an elected Board of Directors and supported by an experienced artistic team.

  • Board members are elected by DIWC member families at the Annual General Meeting each fall. The Board represents the interests of members and supports the ongoing operation of the company.

    BOARD MEMBERS

    • CHAIR, Jennelle Hubick

    • VICE-CHAIR, Jennifer Calnek

    • SECRETARY, Stefanie Young

    • TREASURER, Nick Schenher

    • COMMUNICATIONS, Martha Neovard

    • FUNDRAISING, Melanie Meachem

    • SCHOOL MATINEE COORDINATOR, Krystal Safinuk

    • TICKET MANAGER, Nena Hawkes

    • VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR, Lana Hershmiller

    • MEMBER-AT-LARGE, Melissa Krieger

    ARTISTIC TEAM

    • ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, Robert Ursan

    • STAGE MANAGER, Jacey Fahlman

    Additional choreographers, costumers, musicians, and artistic staff are engaged as needed throughout the season.

  • The season runs from September 2026 to March 2027.

    This year we are planning two full company shows, and new this year we have a bonus show, which will be cast by audition from within the DIWC company.

    • Elf the Musical (December 2026) — Full Company

    • Peter Pan: A New Musical (March 2027) — Full Company

    • You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown (late January/early February) — Auditioned

DIWC Auditions & Casting FAQ

  • Auditions are held each June for the following season. At this stage, you are auditioning for the Full Company, not a specific role. Casting is determined by director Rob Ursan, and placement is based on age, skill, and vocal range.

    Once company members have been selected, casting is determined by Artistic Director Rob Ursan, and group placements are based on factors such as:

    • Age

    • Experience

    • Vocal range

    • Performance skills

    • Company needs

  • AGES 8-11:

    • Act: prepare a memorized poem with (10-20 lines) for your audition. Tip: focus on strong performance, understanding the poem's meaning, and connecting through confident delivery and engaging voice and body language.

    • Sing: New this year. You will choose a 16 bar audition cut from a list of provided musical theatre songs. A list will be provided with 10 options for high voices and 10 options for low voices.

    • Dance: a mandatory movement (dance) call-back is scheduled for the end of each day. This is meant to be a fun and approachable experience for us to see how quickly you can learn choreography and comfort with basic musical theatre movement.

    AGES 12-18:

    1. Act: prepare a memorized monologue for your audition. Tip: choose age-appropriate material that showcases their strengths and emotional range, memorize lines thoroughly, and practice with a focus on character and delivery, while also considering the audience and the monologue's context. 

    2. Sing: New this year. You will choose a 16 bar audition cut from a list of provided musical theatre songs. A list will be provided with 10 options for high voices and 10 options for low voices.

    3. Dance: a mandatory movement (dance) call-back is scheduled for the end of each day. This is meant to be a fun and approachable experience for us to see how quickly you can learn choreography and comfort with basic musical theatre movement.

    • Energy and enthusiam! We are so excited to meet you or see you again and cannot wait to see what you are ready to show us!

    • A photo of you (headshot preferred)

    • A printed resume or sheet of paper that includes the following information: your name, age, gender, email address, phone number, primary parent contact, a summary of your music/dance/theatre experiences. Please feel free to list any special skills or talents you have (for this season we are particularly interested in skills such as acro, silks, circus, and magic or the ability to play a musical instrument).

    • Water bottle

    • Jazz shoes or clean indoor runners for the dance/movement call-back.

    1. Click this link — Dance Studio Pro — and create an account, or sign in if you already have a Dance Studio Pro account.

    2. Once you have signed up, click the upper left corner menu and select “Appointments and Private Lessons.”

    3. Then, click the “Schedule” button that appears.

  • Casting for individual productions takes place later in the season. With more than 30 years of experience in youth theatre, Rob works to create the strongest possible production while providing meaningful learning opportunities for all company members.

    Casting decisions are based on a variety of factors, including:

    • Acting, singing, and dance ability

    • Dedication and work ethic

    • Attendance and availability

    • Readiness for the demands of a particular role

    • The overall needs of the production

    Every role is important, and casting decisions are made with the goal of helping both the individual performer and the company succeed.

Schedule a DIWC audition

Questions?

If you have any questions or require assistance with the Dance Studio Pro app, please call or text Jennifer at (306) 737-7096. If you have any questions about the audition process and/or being a member of the company, please e-mail info@doitwithclass.com.

What to Expect When You Sign Up FAQ

  • DIWC is a pre-professional training program that requires dedication, discipline, and commitment. Major scheduling conflicts for the upcoming season must be discussed before accepting a position in the company. This year, there can be no excused absences for the 3 weekends before each show, production week and of course the shows.

    All company members are expected to participate fully in every aspect of musical theatre, including:

    • Acting

    • Singing

    • Dancing

    • Rehearsals

    • Performances

    • Media and promotional events

  • DIWC is a volunteer-driven organization. Parent and guardian involvement is essential to the success of the company.

    Every family is expected to contribute through volunteer service. Opportunities include:

    • Fundraising

    • Costume support

    • Set construction and painting

    • Front-of-house duties

    • Transportation and logistics

    • Event coordination

    • Administrative support

    Volunteer sign-up information is distributed at the beginning of each season.

    Families should also be prepared for the financial commitment associated with participation in the program. Tuition helps cover the costs of:

    • Artistic staff

    • Costumes

    • Sets and props

    • Lighting and technical equipment

    • Theatre rentals

    • Rehearsal space

    • Production expenses

DIWC Requirements FAQ

  • The season runs from September through March. Rehearsals are typically scheduled on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays A rehearsal schedule is provided at the start of the season. Members are required to attend:

    • Weekly training classes (generally one hour per week on Saturdays)

    • All scheduled rehearsals (Saturday and Sundays with Friday evenings as needed)

    • All performances

  • For cohesion and safety, all company members must provide:

    • Dance Shoes - Black jazz shoes are required for rehearsals, classes, and performances.

    • Undergarments - Program fees cover the cost of costumes. However, members will be responsible for purchasing any required undergarments to be worn beneath costumes. Details will be provided in the welcome package.

    • Basic Wardrobe Items - These items are used as the base for other costumes or special events. They may be kept at the studio throughout the season. Each member must provide:

      • Black leggings or black pants

      • Black socks (knee length)

      • A white long-sleeve shirt

      • A black long-sleeve shirt

  • Previous dance training is not required to join DIWC. However, because musical theatre involves significant movement and choreography, all company members are required to participate in a dance, acro, or movement class during the 2026–27 season.

    High level sports are no longer accepted as movement.

    Families may choose:

    • A DIWC dance program (offered separately from rehearsals at an additional low cost), or

    • An approved program through another dance studio. Note: proof of registration in an approved external program will be required.

  • No. Many current and former company members have found outside voice or music lessons beneficial, but participation is entirely optional.

    DIWC does not use microphones to amplify voices. Company members learn to safely project their voices with natural amplification. This is a highly valued skill that professional theatre companies and post-secondary institutions have repeatedly acknowledged as an advantage.

    Company members should be prepared to learn music independently and dedicate time each week to practicing show material. Music tracks and sheet music will be provided for home practice. While the ability to read music is helpful, it is not required.

  • Yes. DIWC holds auditions once each year to establish the company for the upcoming season. Acceptance into DIWC is a commitment to participate for the full season from September through March.

DIWC Commitment & Attendance FAQ

  • A season schedule is provided at the beginning of the year, and detailed schedules for upcoming rehearsals are shared each Monday by the Stage Manager.

    Production/show week schedules are shared closer to the performance with adequate time for your child’s school to be notified of their absences.

    We strongly encourage families to avoid scheduling activities that regularly conflict with rehearsals.

    Please note that if multiple rehearsals are missed, your child may be removed from a scene, song, or dance number to ensure the production can move forward smoothly.

    Non-emergency absences require a minimum of two weeks' notice. Because rehearsals are collaborative, every absence affects the work of the entire company.

    Absences are generally not permitted:

    • during show week

    • during the three weekends immediately preceding a production

  • A season schedule is provided at the beginning of the year. While we do our best to plan ahead, schedules may change due to venue availability, production needs, weather, or other circumstances.

    The Stage Manager distributes detailed rehearsal schedules each Monday for the upcoming weekend. Families should review these communications regularly and ensure we have the most current contact information on hand.

  • Illness is unavoidable, and your child’s health should always come first. If your child is unwell, we ask that they stay home until they can participate without risking the health of others.

    The Stage Manager must be notified of any absence due to illness as soon as possible.

    When possible company members are encouraged to connect with the Stage Manager or another company member to catch up on missed material. Depending on the situation, they may also be invited to attend and observe rather than actively participate.

  • All known conflicts, including vacations, must be disclosed before the season begins, as availability may affect acceptance to DIWC and/or casting decisions. If absences due to vacations are approved, company members are encouraged to connect with the Stage Manager or another company member to catch up on missed material. Depending on the timing and length of the vacation, your child may be removed from a scene, song, or dance number to ensure the production can move forward smoothly.

  • Your child can participate in other activities, but we strongly encourage avoiding activities that overlap with rehearsals and performance weeks.

    All known conflicts need to be shared at the start of the season. Availability can impact casting.

Classes, Rehearsals & Performances FAQ

  • Classes and rehearsals are held in our studio at 611 Park Street.

    Families should plan to keep most Saturdays(10-6) and Sundays (12-5) available. Fridays (5-8) are generally reserved for smaller groups or used when additional rehearsal time is required. Time commitment varies depending on the production schedule and your child's involvement.

  • During production weeks, members and families are expected to participate in:

    • Load in and load out (strike)

    • Tech & dress rehearsals

    • School matinees (held during the school week, performers will miss school during the day)

    • Public performances (evening and weekend)

    • Media appearances

    • Photography and filming sessions

    • Other show-related activities

  • Our shows will be held at Riddle Centre Theatre at the University of Regina Campus and The Artesian. We choose these venues based on the shows we have selected and based on how well-equipped the venues are.

  • Parents are encouraged to support their child by helping them review lines, learn music, and stay on top of the weekly schedule.

    For younger performers, this may include helping them access rehearsal videos, music tracks, and other materials shared through Google Drive or Dance Studio Pro.

    The amount of home practice required will vary depending on your child's role, experience, and individual learning style. For example, company members with limited dance experience may need additional time outside of rehearsals to review choreography videos and practice movement.

  • Please bring only essential items to help keep the rehearsal space organized.

    Recommended rehearsal attire includes:

    • Leggings, sweatpants, gym shorts, or other movement-friendly bottoms

    • Comfortable, loose-fitting tops; no crop tops.

    • Black jazz shoes

    • Hair must secured away from the face

    • No jewelry, wrist bands/bracelets, or watches

  • Because rehearsals involve close physical proximity and shared spaces, DIWC maintains a scent-free environment. Company members are expected to wear deodorant for rehearsals and performances; however:

    • Deodorant must be scent-free

    • Perfume is not permitted

    • Cologne is not permitted

    • Scented body sprays are not permitted

  • Yes. Company members are responsible for bringing a refillable water bottle and any snacks they may need during breaks. Water, meals, and snacks are not provided by the company.

    Please note that DIWC is a nut-free environment.

    We use a lot of energy during rehearsals. Please ensure you are eating a well balanced meal before rehearsals and shows. Breaks are scheduled during longer rehearsals.

  • Generally, no.

    Rehearsals are a space where company members can learn, experiment, and build confidence. To create the best environment for growth, family members are not permitted in the rehearsal room during regular rehearsals and classes.

    Occasionally, families may be invited to attend informal showcase performances or sneak peeks throughout the season.

  • Cell phones may be used to record music, choreography, or notes when permitted by the artistic team.

    At all other times, phones and electronic devices should remain put away and not be used during rehearsals.

DIWC Diversity & Inclusion

Do It With Class Youth Theatre Inc. is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming environment.

We encourage parents and guardians to discuss any accommodations, support needs, or special considerations with the Artistic Team before the season begins. This allows us to provide the best possible experience for your child.

Any information shared will be treated confidentially and only shared with individuals who need to know, such as members of the Artistic Team and a designated Board representative.

We welcome individuals from all backgrounds, abilities, and experiences, provided they can safely and meaningfully participate in rehearsals and performances.

Please note that some productions may have limitations based on licensing agreements, production requirements, or venue constraints. We will always strive to make reasonable accommodations whenever possible.

DIWC Tuition FAQ

  • Joining DIWC involves a financial commitment that helps cover the costs of a high-quality, pre-professional musical theatre training program for seven months of programming (September–March).

    DIWC is fortunate to subsidize tuition through grants, fundraising efforts, and revenue generated from SLGA bingo events.

    For the 2026–27 season, tuition is $2,550 per company member. Families who fulfill their bingo commitment will receive a tuition credit, reducing the total cost to $2,100.

    Families with more than one DIWC member will receive a 10% tuition discount for each additional child enrolled.

    Historical fees for reference:

    • 2025-26: $2490 (reduced to $2100 if bingo shifts were worked by the family)

    • 2024-25: $2490 (reduced to $2100 if bingo shifts were worked by the family)

    • 2023-24: $2300

    • 2022-23: $2100

    • 2021-22: $2100 (plus $100 COVID recovery reduction for returning members)

    • 2020-21: $1700 (no live performances due to COVID; reduced expenses)

    • 2019-20: $2100

    • 2018-19: $1900

    • 2016-17: $1900 (plus additional dance/acting classes)

    • 2015-16: $1570 (plus additional dance/acting classes)

  • Each family is responsible for working six (6) bingo shifts for every company member enrolled. For each shift worked, a credit of $75 will be applied to the family's account.

    Families are welcome to work additional shifts, when available, to further offset tuition costs.

    More information about bingo scheduling and expectations will be provided at the time of enrollment.

  • Our goal is to provide a professional-quality theatre experience while keeping tuition as affordable as possible. Tuition helps cover the costs associated with operating a full-season musical theatre company, including:

    • Professional artistic staff

    • Costumes and costume maintenance

    • Sets, props, and production materials

    • Lighting, sound, and technical equipment

    • Theatre and rehearsal space rentals

    • Production rights and licensing fees

    • Insurance, licensing, and administrative expenses

  • Yes! Besides being a part of Regina’s oldest youth theatre program, families will enjoy:

    • Early access to purchase show tickets

    • Complimentary tickets:

      • Each DIWC member/family receives:

        • Two complimentary tickets for both full company productions (Elf & Peter Pan)

      • For those cast in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown:

        • Two complimentary tickets for the show

      • Company members not cast in You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown receive one complimentary student ticket to the show.

      • Additional tickets may be purchased through the regular ticketing process and generally go on sale one month prior to each show.

    • Cast photos from each production

  • To secure your child's place in the company:

    • A non-refundable deposit of $380 is due upon acceptance into the program and no later than June 30, 2026.

    • The remaining balance is payable in seven equal monthly installments of $310, due on the 1st of each month from September through March.

    Families who require alternative payment arrangements are encouraged to contact the Board as early as possible. You may choose to pay all of the tuition at the beginning of the year if desired.

  • Fees must be paid in the Dance Studio Pro App via credit card (service fee applied) OR by e-transfers to diwcrecords@gmail.com. No password is necessary as automatic deposits have been set up.Fees must be paid in the Dance Studio Pro App via credit card (service fee applied) OR by e-transfers to diwcrecords@gmail.com. No password is necessary as automatic deposits have been set up.

  • We understand that life gets busy and payment deadlines can occasionally be missed. A reminder will be sent if a payment is overdue.

    If you anticipate difficulty making a payment on time, please contact us as soon as possible so we can discuss options.

    Accounts that fall more than two months behind may result in the company member being suspended or withdrawn from the program.

  • Our annual budget is based on the number of company members enrolled. Accepting a place in the company represents a commitment to the full season and full tuition amount.

    For this reason, tuition is generally non-refundable if a company member chooses to withdraw.

    If you are unsure whether your child is ready to commit to a full season, we encourage you to explore our shorter-term sessional classes before joining the company.

  • We encourage families that might be eligible, to contact Creative Kids directly for funding opportunities.

  • We are always looking for new ways to help families fundraise. If you know of something, or if you would like to help the Board coordinate something, please let us know.