Frequently Asked Questions
When does the cast list come out?
Cast lists usually come out the Sunday evening before the first rehearsal.
(Sometimes they come late! It may be 11:59pm, so please hang in there with us!)
*Kids musicals are a little different. Cast lists will come out the Sunday before the SECOND week of rehearsals)
How do auditions work at HMAA?
Auditions are done in 15 minute slots, and several dates and times will be available, usually Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
Some time after registration, you will receive an email about auditions. This will include audition requirements and sign-ups for time slots.
In general, we ask for a 30-60 second monologue, and for musicals, a song. For some musicals, we may send you a short choreography piece to learn and perform.
Some pointers: The monologue should have more than one emotion. If you are auditioning for a musical, don't pick a song from that musical, but from something similar.
Around here, we like to say that our auditions are more like private lessons. We are all about meeting kids where they are. We will generally give feedback and ask them to try again, to see if they can apply the feedback. We may take them to the piano to find out vocal range. But we want the entire process to be comfortable and personal, not intimidating!
Kids musicals are a little different. The first week of rehearsal will consist of acting games and singing. This is their "audition". Then, the cast list will come out the Sunday prior to the next rehearsal.
There are no auditions for our Homeschool Little Theater Troupe, Homeschool Junior Theater, or Improv Club.
What can I expect during Show Week?
Check out our Show Week page
How do you handle costumes and props?
At HMAA, we believe students should be as involved in their character development as possible. Costumes and props are generally the responsibility of the student. Of course, there are certain iconic characters that need to look a certain way, but other characters are welcome to create their own costume. Occasionally, for continuity, we will provide costume pieces or specific instructions. This varies by production.
Props are usually the responsibility of the first charater to touch it.
We do not want costumes or props to be a financial burden. We can usually crowd source anything you need! Please reach out to us if you need help.
How do I find the rehearsal/audition space?
Our daytime homeschool classes and rehearsals take place at:
Bel Air United Methodist Church
21 Linwood Avenue
Bel Air, MD 21014
Please enter through the glass doors. Go up the ramp, and follow the hallway. We are in room 202, near the library.
Our auditions and evening rehearsals take place at:
Emmanuel Episcopal Church
303 N Main Street
Bel Air, MD 21014
Please park in the lot off of Ellendale. Walk around to the courtyard. Find the first set of double doors. (Please avoid parking in the alcove, as we usually have heavy boxes and equipment to load in and out)
Our dress rehearsals and performances take place at:
The Warehouse Theater @ E-Street Dance
2113 Columbia Park Rd
Edgewood, MD 21040
Do I drop my student off, or do I stay?
You are welcome to do whatever makes you and your student comfortable. Some parents choose to stay and watch, and some choose to drop off. Either is fine!
How do I make sure I am getting the emails?
Sometimes our emails go to your spam folder. Please make sure to add info@harfordmusicandarts.com to your safe sender list!
How do you handle behavioral issues?
First and foremost, we advise our students to advocate for themselves. If they ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe, they are encouraged to find Mr Jim, Ms Cara, or another of our trusted adults.
Depending on the severity of the issue, we strive to first encourage students to resolve the issue. We want to empower the kids to stand up for themselves and set appropriate boundaries.
Repeated or severe issues will be communicated with the parents or guardians, and we will work together to resolve the issue.
Rarely, we may have to require parental supervision during rehearsals and shows. This is the final attempt to resolve the issue before expulsion. We haven't yet had to expel any student from the program.
How can I add another parent or guardian to the email list for my production?
Add any parent or guardian to a production email list by having them complete this form!
Do you have a Code of Conduct?
Our code of conduct is generally sent out the week before the production begins. You can see it here:
What is your Winter Weather policy?
Check out our winter weather policy here
What if I still have questions?
Please email us at info@harfordmusicandarts.com