The things families email us about most, answered before you have to write.
When does the season run?
Classes run September 14, 2026 through June 11, 2027, following a school-year rhythm with breaks around the major holidays. The full calendar is on our calendar page.
Can we try a class before committing?
Yes. Our whole opening week is free. Come to any class Monday September 14 through Thursday the 17th, or Saturday the 19th, and the first one costs you nothing. Take the class or just sit and watch. There is no deposit and no obligation.
There are no Friday classes, which is why the 18th is not on the list. If opening week does not work for you, email us and we will find you another one.
What should my child wear?
Modest clothes they can move in, hair off the face, and the right shoes for the class. Musical theatre dance needs clean indoor sneakers or jazz shoes, acting is barefoot or sneakers. The full list is in our dress code.
If buying dance shoes is a problem, tell us. We keep a small stock and it stays between us.
How much does it cost, and when am I charged?
Classes are $90 a month per class. Your first month is charged at checkout, the next pull is October 1, and it continues monthly through June 1. There is no separate registration fee.
Second and additional children take 5% off.
Do you have tuition assistance?
We do, and we would rather you ask than quietly decide you cannot afford it. Email info@novapa.org and our CFO will send you the application. It is handled privately.
What if we need to stop?
Thirty days notice, in writing, and the monthly billing stops. No penalty and no argument. The detail is in our policies.
Can I watch my child’s class?
Yes, during our observation weekend at the end of September, and by arrangement any other time. Just ask the front desk or email ahead so the teacher knows to expect you.
Who is teaching?
Working theatre professionals, every one background checked and trained to work with minors before their first day. You can read about them on our safety and staff training page, and if your child’s specific teacher is not listed yet, email and we will tell you who it is.
What if my child is nervous or has never done this?
That describes most of our first-timers, and it is genuinely the thing we are best at. No experience is expected in any class, and nobody is put on the spot on day one.
My child has an allergy, a medical need, or an IEP. Can you work with that?
Yes. Tell us at registration or email us before the first class. Our Director of Health and Safety is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and reviews every medical note personally. She serves NoVAPA in a non-clinical safety and operations capacity and does not provide clinical services, therapy, assessment, or diagnosis to NoVAPA students.