Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect from classes?
Every session, CYT Santa Cruz offers 10-week theater arts classes to children ages 8–18. These two-hour after-school classes are held weekly. On the final week of classes, students will display a portion of what they've learned by participating in a showcase for family and friends. At the showcase, students will present a brief performance to highlight what they mastered throughout the session.
Do I need to have prior theatrical experience?
No. We can teach you everything you need to know! However, we sometimes offer classes that require prerequisites, so make sure to check our class listing for more details.
Who receives e-mail communication through the website?
The primary e-mail contact listed in your family account will receive the e-mails if necessary.
Does taking a class automatically guarantee my student a spot in a show?
No. CYT holds open auditions for students ages 8–18 who are registered in a current CYT class. Once enrolled, you can sign up to audition for a show. You can read more about the audition process at the
Audition FAQ.
What does my child need to bring to class?
Students can bring a snack and water bottle to class. However, we do sell snack items during our
15-minute break time.
What if my child doesn’t know anyone?
Many of our students are new to CYT. We encourage a very friendly and welcoming atmosphere where kids will meet new friends.
What should my child wear to class?
We encourage comfortable dance and play friendly clothing each day. Please encourage your child to wear closed-toed shoes with a back of some kind (please no flip flops or open-toed shoes). Your teacher will have more specifics depending on the specialty of your class.
How do you handle allergies?
Please let us know of any allergies when you register on-line. Our staff will be alerted to the allergy and maintain a high level of awareness.
Is there a nurse on staff?
We do not have a nurse on staff. However, we have a Class Coordinator onsite who oversees the administration of the class and will take care of any first aid needs.
What is your pick up/drop off policy?
We would like for children to be dropped off no earlier than 10 minutes before class starts and picked up promptly at dismissal time.
Can I sign up on the first day of class?
All of our registration is done on-line, so please check our website for availability. Many of our classes fill up quickly so we encourage early registration.
Is there a sibling discount?
Yes! When signing up a sibling, a discount is automatically applied.
What is your cancellation/refund policy?
- CLASS FEES: Registration fees for classes are non-refundable once the show has been cast and the cast list is posted. If you choose to withdraw from classes before auditions, a refund may be granted, minus a $30 administration fee.
- PRODUCTION FEES: Show production fees are non-refundable for any reason.
- CAMP FEES: We know that plans change so you can request a cancellation of your camp registration fee up to two weeks before camp begins and you will be refunded the registration cost, minus a $30 administration fee.
All refunds are returned to the original form of payment. Camp/class changes are subject to availability.
What if my child has to miss a class?
We ask that you communicate the absence or conflict to your Class Coordinator as soon as possible and students to use the CONFLICT FORM to make a plan on how to get caught up when you return. This may include learning material at home from a video or meeting a fellow classmate outside of class to learn material. Please note that students must attend CYT classes (no more than 2 absences are acceptable if you are cast in the show, unless due to illness) and students must participate in the final class showcase during the session for which they are auditioning.