It’s a very friendly community. There are people of different ages in this community, and we might learn things along the way, such as how to collaborate with people from other classes or people we don’t know very well. iStage produces some theatrical works every year, and I really enjoy the process of connecting different musicals, different singers, and different songs into a story. I really love the feeling of building a story for the whole production.
——iStage Student
I think iStage really helped me solidify my passion for musical theatre. It’s quite a small, tight-knit community, and that makes a big difference. Of course, it’s about doing the shows and being part of productions, but even more than that, it’s about finding your community, your little class, and learning how to build an ensemble together. We get to know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and we learn how to rely on one another. Over time, you grow really comfortable working together as scene partners, and that creates such a great dynamic. I haven’t found that same sense of connection and collaboration in any other theatre company or production I’ve been part of, so yes, iStage was really special to me.
——iStage Student
I think iStage’s overall philosophy is very similar to that of overseas institutions. I actually admire Karina a lot, and I quite approve of all her teaching methods. I don’t entirely agree with those who give the impression of being lax and having a “good enough” attitude towards many things. When strictness is needed, high standards and high expectations are required, because this concerns the children’s future professional qualities. In more relaxed situations, she provides timely affirmation and encouragement. This timely feedback allows children to enjoy the space and freely explore their potential.
—iStage Parent
After two long days of rehearsals and waiting in the wings over Saturday and Sunday, I thought my daughter would be tired and struggle with her first performance. But after the curtain call on Sunday, the first thing she said to me was, “Mom, is it too late to sign up for the musical next semester? I want to sign up…” I was deeply moved! It’s not about expecting her to sing or dance exceptionally well on stage; cultivating this passion for musicals and performances is invaluable.
—iStage Parent
This morning on the subway, I saw a WeChat post from the founder of the musical theater school my child attends, and it resonated with me. It’s not just about the stage; life itself is like that. Stage experience isn’t just about those few minutes on stage; it’s much more about everything behind the scenes: the arduous rehearsals, the long waits, the failures and mistakes… As the saying goes, life imitates art, and all of this is invaluable experience in a child’s growth.
—A parent of iStage