Interview with Josephine Lancuba
This week we have the pleasure of chatting with Josephine Lancuba, the Director of the Musical Makers Club in Sydney and a Performing Arts Business Coach. She has spent over a decade programming creative experiences and events for kids.
Keep reading to find out:
The Benefits of Performing Arts for Kids
Q: As a performing artist, can you share how performing arts can benefit kids (and how did it benefit you)?
A: Growing up in an unstable home, music was my sanctuary. I would always sing around the house and it eased any anxious feelings I may have had as a young girl. Singing made me feel good and would allow me to connect to my emotions. It’s widely known that the performing arts can serve as a stress-reliever, providing emotional release
That love of music I mentioned, then led to me taking classes in dance and later in music and drama.
Now as a teacher and a Performing Arts Studio Owner who serves a wide variety of ages from toddlers to teenagers, the benefits I see in our students are phenomenal. I find the benefits are often underestimated, as the arts can be overlooked in favour of sport or academic endeavours.
As a child, my imagination was sparked by the arts and would run wild. I see that in our students too!
The performing arts encourage children to think creatively and use their imagination. They learn to think outside the box and explore new ideas. This benefits them in everyday situations and interactions.
It’s also great for team work, community building and developing great confidence and self esteem.
Classes are wonderful places to learn new skills, however the performance outcome is the highlight of the year for each of our students.
When children perform in front of an audience, it boosts their self confidence tremendously. They learn to overcome their fears and feel a great sense of accomplishment once they take their final bow. It’s pure magic!!
Should I Encourage my Kids to Learn Performing Arts?
Q: Do you encourage your kids to learn performing arts?Â
A: As a mum of 2 children (8 year old girl and a 6 year old boy) I very much encourage them to participate in the performing arts.Â
I think it is so important for children to be involved. We know as parents however, that we can not force our children to take on what does not feel right to them.
The benefits are so great however, I would advise parents who have children that are “on the fence” to stick with it for at least 3-4 weeks, before making a decision if it’s the right fit. In my studio business, we find there are different personalities and we need to cater to all of them.
The extrovert walks into a class for the first time ready to rock!
Whereas an introvert or more timid child, needs more time. They may really want to be there but simply need support and encouragement. I usually allow a timid child to sit and watch the class until they feel comfortable to take part. As teachers we use gentle techniques to engage them to participate. After 2 or 3 weeks, most timid children begin to settle in nicely and before you know it, they are rockstars too!
Also note there are so many types of art forms. Do not feel restricted or feel that because that one ballet trial class didn’t work out for your child, that means ALL performing arts programs wont be of interest.
From tap, screen acting, ballroom, singing, aerial and so much more! There are a wide variety to try. Then when you find what you love, continue to nurture that passion and art form.Â
How Can Parents Gauge Their Child’s Interest?
Q: What are the most popular types of performing arts for kids and how can parents tell if their kids truly like a particular type of performing arts?
A: Follow your parental intuition and also, your child’s feedback. Trust in that!Â
We are definitly starting to see a shift in the market where families are looking for less structured art forms. Styles such as ballet can be perceived as “rigid” however I do believe it is foundational to all dance forms, your child may be looking for something a little more loose.
More studios and program providers are now focused on recreational streams, meaning “non competitive” programs. This means children can learn to sing, dance or act just for the sake of it, without the pressure of competitions or professional development.
Personally, Musical Theatre is my first love hence why I created the Musical Makers Club.
I am a musical theatre nerd at heart and wanted all other nerds to have a safe place to express themselves. A place I wish I had growing up.
We attract hundreds of students a year across our 4 club sites, through developing inclusive, production focused programs, that results in a quality show! These are your typical junior show titles and this season we are working towards Disney’s Frozen JR. All great movie themes and Disney themes are still a big hit, no matter how many years pass.
Another important point to make on this, is related to boys in the performing arts. We are seeing more and more boys showing interest in dance and I think that is really exciting! Everyone should be welcomed into a creative space and we want our boys to pursue their passion in a way that makes them feel good and safe.Â
How to Select and Compare Performing Arts School
Q: How should parents choose and compare the performing arts schools?Â
A: The first step is choosing your genre. Ask your child what they are most excited about and follow their lead. If they are a toddler or younger, you may need to take the lead at first.Â
If you are unsure what genre will work for your child, usually a recommendation from a friend is good place to start. Or you can ask your local community groups online of good local programs or performing arts schools.
Once you have chosen your art form and genre, then it comes down to the type of studio you want to attend.
Fundamentally there are 3 types of performing arts schools:
1. Recreational programming (just for fun)
2. Competition school (professional development and technique focused. They may partake in exam work etc)
3. Both are offered – Recreational stream and Competition team options. (This allows for progression within the studio).
There is no right or wrong when it comes to your selection, but do know that the level of training and time expectations as they grow and progress will greatly differ.
For example, my daughter moved from recreational gymnastics, to competition team gym of recent and she now attends 3 times a week (versus the one time we did initially). She went from 1 hour a week to now 9 hours + every week in the gym. With this sort of high level programming, comes an extra cost and this is something we had to seriously consider as a family. Competition teams will also have costumes, team uniforms and extras to purchase, so be sure you have all of the information before signing up. Also see if they have payment plan options should you want to invest but can not make that upfront payment.
The joy gymnastics brings to my daughter is worth it for us, so we make it work.
When it comes to quality training and positive experiences in a studio and class environment, it really does come down to the teacher in the space. If you feel good about the teacher and your child is engaged and happy while in class, then you know you are on to a winner! A good quality teacher is golden.
Final Thoughts
Q: Any additional advice you would give parents?Â
A: The performing arts is the best thing that ever happened to me in my life because it fostered a sense of purpose and passion that has stayed with me into my forties.
No matter if your child is an artist, a participant or a spectator, get your children involved in the arts. Go see shows, book that school holiday workshop, be immersed in characters and stories that spark their imaginations and expose them to theatrical experiences.
From my experience and the from what I witness within our students and audiences who enjoy our productions, the benefits are undeniable and can last a life time.