I'm always really impressed with the large productions: the set, costumes, make-up; it's the full pageantry and having attended productions in Chicago and New York, I still have the feeling of "Impressive!" I occasionally volunteer for ushering (why not? it's a chance to watch the show and get community contribution points) and I've recommended friends that have also volunteered in teacher assisting and design (great resume experience!) and so I'd heard about what Jennifer G. is talking about, but on the whole other side of the spectrum. From what my friend told me, the A/R is a little slow on the updates and realized that Jennifer hadn't paid for her child's participation. Not clear on what happened here, but I assume something like they called and emailed to let her know and to ask her to pay at the next class or leave and since she didn't pay, she left. And started saying that not being part of the program was because of ADHD. Like Jennifer G. says herself, blasting it anywhere she can. IMHO, it seems like it's a matter of money turned into revenge campaign. My friend also mentioned that a couple of the kids were expressing their thanks, cause her son would do choke holds and wrestle them even if they weren't into it. Back to A&L, though, I've seen Alice in Wonderland and Beauty and the Beast and was super-impressed; very much like a professional production. Belle's dress in particular was jaw-dropping. Disney would approve. They've gotta have pictures of it somewhere, so I'd say check it out. read more

The Arts & Learning Conservatory has offered my son so much opportunity and growth and I am so grateful for our involvement with them for the past 3-4 years. I have been extremely impressed with Debora Wondercheck and her staff. She is so knowledgeable and talented and has a passion and incredible gift for music. Whether she is directing a small or large group, she maintains the same passion, dedication and expectations. She has the ability to help her students maximize their potential. My son has been in the Special Ed program at school for the past 8 years and has special needs. He has always been treated fairly and with kindness and acceptance by Debora and her staff. He has always felt accepted and appreciated. If he had ever been treated any differently, I wouldn't have remain involved - but here we are starting our 4th year of working with them, and I couldn't be happier. Thank you for leading and maintaining a great organization that inspires children and allows them a place to explore, learn, and express their budding talents and passion! You are a wonderful asset to the community! read more

My children have grown up in the arts and enjoyed many programs. What they especially appreciate about the Arts & Learning Conservatory is the size of the classes and the devotion to one-on-one training. It is more common than not for the child who is not carrying the leading role, to get lost in the crowd and just sit and wait until his/her big moment comes--Not with this theatre arts program. There is so much room for individual growth, both in the tools of the trade and character development. Your child will not sit around and watch others receive the training. The instructors make it their mission to discern the needs and talents of each child and then nurture him or her in the arts accordingly. This program is also designed to provide a very broad understanding of theatre, from back stage to center stage. Whether your child is best suited for the stage or the orchestra, the experience is not only memorable, but life changing. read more

The Arts & Learning Conservatory (A&LC) has earned an outstanding reputation in the development and training of youth with a wide variety of opportunities to explore and develop their talents through Fine Arts. The A&LC team focus is to develop their students best, support each other, and have fun! However, I am perplexed, extremely confused and quite frankly disturbed by the baseless comments/reviews posted by the G's (Jennifer & Jorge). The discrimination against children with ANY disability goes completely against the A&LC founder's principle and philosophy - "Debora always counts it a high privilege to serve children, their families, and our community with inspiring programs that develop confidence and creativity ...for life." FYI One of Debora's brother's is diagnosed with Autism, so she personally understands and has great compassion and empathy for all he is unable to do. read more

I personally know Debra and Gary, I can vouch for them that they are incredible parents of their own children and it shows through them and their three kids. They truly have a heart for the good of the children, preparing them to participate in different phases of the arts and coach the kids to fulfill their dreams. Also having been in ministry for many, many years when working with children it is very important to have boundries. I so appreciate adults that care about other parents children and to make sure there is a positive atmosphere, with little disruption, to protect all the kids involved. There is a reason God blesses the work of Arts and Learning Conservatory They have a proven track record of great success. God bless Debra and Gary for all you do! Mike read more

The Arts & Learning Conservatory is an excellent non-profit organization that gives children and teen agers rich creative opportunities in the arts that will serve them well all their lives. Through theater, group and private vocal instruction, orchestral training, acting and dance classes they develop self confidence, discipline, respect for diversity and teamwork. The joy is obvious when you watch their performances. The Conservancy offers classes at many schools throughout Southern California with programs that meet California learning standards for Visual and Performing Arts at little cost. I became aware of the quality of The Arts & Learning Conservancy at a National Philanthropy Day and am pleased to be a member of its board. Ruth DeNault, Secretary read more

I must say in decade where we have seen public and some private schools go away from having Arts in their programs its refreshing to see a mainstay like The Arts and Learning Conservatory! This program allows students from all walks of life be able try (some for the very first time) music, theater arts, etc. and the productions put on at the end of these camps are first class and having a daughter who went through some of these camps and even knowing a few of the current students you can see a transformation of confidence and obviously growth in the area of study. I personally do all I can to pass the word, repost the flyers, etc. and you should truly do the same; this is one of those things I do and you'll feel GREAT about sharing with everyone you know... read more

This organization has done an incredible job at developing children in the arts. Debora Wondercheck, a very accomplished musician and performer, has put together a superior team of directors, teachers and coaches who are skilled in working with children from ages 5-18 years old. Not only do the children develop acting, voice, and stage skills, but their self-confidence and self-esteem naturally develops as they work with Debora's team and the other children who have a love for drama and music. I strongly recommend this organization if your child has an interest in the arts, or you desire to give them a vehicle to feel better about themselves. read more

Not satisfied with the services rendered! Since it's inception at my grand kids school in October 2014 we have not received a FULL MONTH of services even though we are paying for a full month! Examples: the instructor cancelled so no class that week; then in the month of November there were only 3 weeks of school yet we are billed for a FULL month and the same thing for December- kids were on vacation for 2 weeks yet we paid for a full month of service! They are being unjustly enriched because any other business would have pro- rated the amount being paid seeing how a full month of service would not be rendered! read more

Arts and Learning is a fantastic company run by fantastic people. The classes are geared to bring out the talent in every young and energetic individual willing to work hard and participate. The seasonal productions are very fun to watch especially when I my nieces and nephew perform in very imaginative costumes. This company brings a smile to my face knowing that they only want kids to respect each other and learn to work together for a very rewarding outcome, which is performing on a higher level of excellence. My wife know feels motivated to get our grandson involved once he gets of age. Great company. read more

My autistic son has been working with Deborah Wondercheck for several years in the Belagio Youth Strings Orchestra (through the Arts & Learning Conservatory). I cant say enough good things about the experience that he has had working with her and the orchestra. She has the kids playing at a very high level, and she pushes them to be the best they can be. Someone below mentions discrimination. Our experience couldn't be further from that. We have seen nothing but patience, caring and professionalism. Keep up the good work! read more

Our son has done 2 plays with A&L; he loves the teachers and directors and really enjoys participating in the program. We enjoy working with the staff at A&L, they are very professional and the costs for the programs are in line with other programs that our son has participated in. Our sons voice teacher has attended the shows and says that they are very well orchestrated and better than other community shows that she has seen. We will continue to support A&L and their efforts to encourage our young actors and actresses!! read more

I would like to say thank you all for all the great preparation that each cast member got in this past beauty and the beast play! It was great!!!! My son who is just turning 14 yrs old had a wonderful time. It was his first ever part , it was a small part but he had a blast learning all the skills and lots of fun! I would recommend this facility along with the wonderful teachers and directors. They are wonderful instructors!!!!!! Thank you all for this wonderful opportunity! read more

Arts and Learning Conservatory is a tremendous community resource. With so many schools cutting arts and performance programs that are critical for developing creativity, social skills and self-confidence, OC parents are lucky to have this as a resource they can depend on. Their non-profit model means people like Deborah and her exceptional staff are there because they care. It definitely shows. Highly recommended! read more

This is the perfect location for kids to learn and perform in the performing arts. All programs are first rate from After School Orchestra and Musical Theater Arts. All productions are Broadway caliber. All their Teaching Artists are highly trained and dedicated to the mission by making the Arts accessible to ALL children. read more

Each year the A&L Conservatory's productions get better and better . What a great way to help children grow and express their innate abilities and talents. Keep up the good work!! read more