My daughter was involved with this company years ago. They only give kids roles who have been with the company for years. The company REQUIRES all parents to buy X amount of tickets. Would recommend this company for the parents to put their kids through. Absolutely NOT. read more

Yelp's persnickety requirement that I give at least one star has screwed me up yet again.Oh, well... I wrote a super-detailed review of this theatre company but it so far exceeded the character limit that I had to rework it. What I decided to do instead is just cut to the chase. So here goes: I stepped on a stage for the first time when I was six. After spending my entire childhood on a stage I worked my way through college teaching children's theatre. So when I say I know about children's theatre I'm not blowing smoke. But, new to California, I was unfamiliar with the children's theatre scene here so, on the strength of raves from other people, I let my 16 year old participate in KK's most recent production. Ahhh, live and learn. Karousel Kids is a hot mess, plain and simple. I've never encountered such an incompetent, unprofessional theatre company in my life. I'm not sure how they earned such raves but I didn't see it. What I saw was: a director who constantly berated the kids, a show that didn't have a script until 2 1/2 weeks before opening night, despite six months of rehearsals... At one point our daughter had a choir commitment and was forced to miss a rehearsal. The director, post-berating, punished our daughter by forcing her to miss a performance (even though they were forced to teach her part to another girl the night before the performance). They had a constant hand outstretched for money. We spent nearly $1000 on our daughter's participation in this children's theatre production and there were things we flat out refused to do. I won't name all the things we wouldn't do but there is one that stands out. We were expected to purchase 36 tickets at a cost of $720 and then resell them. If we didn't sell them we would have to eat the unsold tickets. As I said, we are pretty new to CA so we don't even know 36 people. To be fair, at the very beginning we were told we were expected to SELL 36 tickets (not BUY, SELL). At that time we told them we would not be able to do that and we were told not to worry. Yet we were repeatedly harassed by parent-volunteers and ultimately by the director herself. I repeatedly explained that we dealt with this at the beginning and, if we had been told we were required to sell 36 tickets our daughter would not have participated. By the time the director called I was downright angry. I'm afraid I just can't think of anything good to say about the experience. My daughter was miserable and wanted to quit - and she's not a quitter. We wouldn't let her, a decision I now regret. I strongly recommend anyone with a child interested in theatre stay away from Karousel Kids. In this town there must be other options. read more

First off I'm disappointed in my school district for passing this flyer around . My girls were excited to go and audition for the play " Annie " I'd say like all the hundreds of kids who were there. I truly hope that the people responsible for putting this on read all these reviews and consider a few factors 1. On the flyer they put small fee to offset production . This is misleading .. Fee is 255straight up .. Plus a add you must buy for 35 dollars plus costumes that can go up to 100 ..these costumes are rentals btw . Also u must sell and be responsible for 36 tickets . At 20 dollars each . If u don't turn in money on time for tickets they go up to 25 each . This is very unreasonable if u ask me . That's 2,005.00 for one child !! That's crazy .. Now you tell me .. Does this sound like a small fee .. 2. This all left a bad feeling for me as a parent . I felt mislead and felt my child's happiness was being used to mislead us . There for I couldn't support this company . They mislead me and my girls and many others . The reason I didn't sign my girls up , principal and ethics .. Which I felt this company didn't not live by . Nonprofit making a profit if you ask me .. No stars for them read more

Karousel Kids Inc - Talent Agencies Near Me - Claremont, California

The owner/ director is very biased and a bully. There are many talented children yet she continues to showcase the same child over and over for the lead or for lead roles.... ( A child she knows from outside the org) . What does that say about her character, what does that say about her ability to build talent. I have personally seen countless children leave classes and or rehearsals in tears due to her rants and belittling . She has an army of board members who will neither suggest or confront situations because they are fearful of reprecussions for their own child and stage time. These members merely perform as her minions, who bow down to her every demand. While the shows are of good Calibur at what point do you sacrifice good character and morals ??? At what price, for stage time!!!! DOES NOT PLAY WELL WITH OTHERS If your child is talented in other genres above and beyond this org. Don't even think about double dipping. If this director finds that you are involved in talent elsewhere you will he chastised. We tried to be up front and honest about pursuing vocal training outside the org., as there really is no good vocal training within karousel kids, It's basically kids teaching kids except for the headmaster. We soon realized that after missing just one rehearsal, with notice, that conflicted; our actor/actress would be labeled as a traitor, and bypassed for roles. While everyone from peers to parents who are also board members were in disbelief about this retaliation no one spoke up. It was a tough decision because of friends made , but one our 12 yr old made to leave this org. Best decision ever! For the sake of your child and your sanity look for other companies. As this old mare, oh...I mean headmaster, has run her race!!!!!! Good luck if you venture in ! read more

For all of you recent Yelpers who decided to write how wonderful this shady organization is....first of all, DUH. Yes, it takes money to put on a huge theatrical production. No one is disputing this. For the gentleman whose daughter had cancer...I'm very sorry that happened to you and your family and my heart goes out to you. I am glad to hear that you did receive support, as you claim, from this organization. However, you can boast and brag all you want about what a fantastic atmosphere Karousel Kids is and how much your children learned, but this does not negate the fact that Karousel Kids is deceitful, tacky and low-class. Karousel Kids is not deceptive because their productions are expensive. They are deceptive and unscrupulous because they take the production fee FIRST before advising parents of the additional funds that are required in order to participate. By the time a parent has time to determine that he or she cannot afford these fees, the production fee is gone. You can't get it back. It's non-refundable. A Yelp review below describes a single mother, who unfortunately, lost $100. She didn't know about the requirements and couldn't get her money back. Her children didn't even get to one rehearsal...they had no part in this show. It's not right to take people's money. It's wrong and unethical. Karousel Kids is also deceptive because all auditioning children, who want to be in the play, are not told of the mandatory ticket sales and the business ads that are required. Then again, if this was known to the parents and the children beforehand, there probably wouldn't be very many people auditioning. Like I stated before, this only lets the children down when their parents realize they cannot afford this very expensive activity. I've written letters to two newspapers in the area concerning this organization. They probably won't get published...I have no doubt the director has far more connections than I do...but I'm ok with that. Word of mouth is just as good and believe me....I am spreading the news...stay away from Karousel Kids. . read more

I don't think we will be coming back to this company. You have your child who attends every rehearsal for 8 months and only gets approximately 15 minutes total stage time of a 2 hour show. Only appearing in the first act and no appearances in the 2nd act. Family paying $20-$25 a ticket to see their relative in a show where they only appear in the first act barely. Little kids are adorable and they knew every song to every act and most of the dance routines as well. Was this ever noticed by the Director? Relatives saying the little ones should have been in more scenes and asking why weren't they. My little one has a huge heart. Wanting to make new friends and play during down time. At times I observed other children who just were not nice to my kiddo. My kiddo would ask to play with them and their reply was "no you can't play with me or don't talk to me." Trying to teach you kiddo to treat others the way you want to be treated and then watch this happen in front of your eyes. I sat there watching the interactions of some of the other children and it did not sit well. There are definitely roles of favoritism for those who have parents who do volunteer the extra hours. Fair. Call it paying your dues, whatever it may be it does not make it right. There are some parents who work full time and would be there more if they could but just can't. The last Friday night was ridiculous. The Director decided to hand out awards without any pre warning and there were family, friends, teachers, etc waiting out front of the theatre to see their little performer and no performers. Handing out awards that could of been handed out the night before at rehearsal. Families left because the kids were not released until one hour after the performance ended. At the Performances it clearly stated no flash photography at the Theatre, however if my kiddo has been practicing for 8 months I should be allowed to take photos of them on stage (without a flash understandably) since I've also paid for my kiddo to be in this production and I've had to sell tickets with a $720 value. Photos were offered for sale however in a stack of hundreds there were only about 4 that had my kiddo was actually in and other "favoritism children" where in had 10x's as many photos as my kiddo. Overall a rather frustrating and some what disappointing experience. read more

I was a little astonished when I saw the fee we had to pay and tickets to sell when we first came to audition 4 years ago. HOWEVER, as soon as my kids got involved, and I saw the quality of their productions, not to mention the venue of the show (Lewis Family Playhouse at Victoria Gardens, Rancho Cucamonga), I'd say -- THIS IS REALLY THE BANG FOR THE BUCK!!! Do they make money by collecting those fees from cast members? No way! I don't think the fee collected even covers their expenses. Now it will be the 4th year since we joined this big family. Through the lessons and performances, my kids not only gained high-quality lessons, but they also gained confidence, responsibility, cooperation, discipline, and friendship. As a parent volunteer, I also learned A LOT in stagecrafting -- this is really fun and valuable experience! :) Thanks, Karousel Kids! Definitely recommended. read more

It is a very warm family atmosphere. My both kids have been here three years. They dont learn how to sing only, but also how to live with the families, how to take care of the younger ones. Very positive, high disciplined group. read more

Great group of parents. The ones that put all the work in, they love theater so much and I learned a lot from them as a theater mom. That's as good as this place gets. Alisa has lost her dam mind. Having my kid on stage is not worth her being told to shut up. Being talked down to, or even being threatened. These parents need to realize our kids and grand kids watch how we are being treated and we need to set the example for them and let them know the way she treats parents and kids is not ok. This last show was a complete disaster from a backstage perspective. Board members backstage crying over how Alisa talked to them over the phone, grown ass adults crying over how this old lady treats them! Kicking kids out left and right. Long time board members leaving these last couple years, Karousel kids has seen their prime, and it's all spiraling downhill fast! Last note... great kids with real talent, only if they were represented by a real company who had their best interest in mind... read more

Karousel Kids has been the best experience of my whole entire life. I have made friendships that will last for a lifetime, grown so much in musical theatre, and have done so many great opportunities that no other place has to offer. I highly recommend Karousel Kids because without them, I wouldn't be as knowledgeable in the field of musical theatre. I love Karousel Kids with all my heart. If you have the opportunity to experience Karousel kids, I highly recommend it, it WILL change your life for the better! read more

My oldest daughter has been in Karousel Kids for three years. From the beginning we knew about all the cost and fees. When you consider the fact that the cost includes ALL the lessons for acting, singing, and dancing for six months it really is very little to pay. My daughter has loved being in the plays. We have watched her talent and confidence grow. On top of that we have made many good friends with the other parents. Everyone gets involved. It's truly a GREAT organization to be associated with. This year my youngest daughter also auditioned and now both of my daughters are busy learning in a positive environment after school. I'm very HAPPY we found Karousel Kids. read more

i have had two kids involved with Karousel Kids over the years. Besides learning to dance, sing and perform, they gained self-confidence, learned discipline, dedication and respect for others, traits which have helped them in their adult lives and careers. And my kids and I all made lifelong friendships. it takes a lot of effort from many volunteers to put on a show of excellent quality. If you have seen a Karousel Kids production, you will understand that it also costs REAL dollars for theatre rental, insurance, professional musicians, costume and set creation and storage. This is where all that money goes. A sad fact. read more

I have been a karousel kid and I think the experience is very amazing. I made a lot of friends new and old every year. Not only do they show you how to sing and act, you also learn terms they use onstage. You also can participate in set building and make props. I would totally recommend it for not only the people who want to learn to sing and act, but also for people who want to learn how to make sets and have fun. They also teach voice and tap lessons. read more

Let's talk costs and benefits. Benefits: What everybody seems to be forgetting is that this is a professionally done. The venue is the Lewis Family Playhouse with a conductor and live musicians. The ticket sales are important not only to pay for this venue and the professionals associated with it, but to provide your children with a packed house. Your children will work hard and it's will be rewarded with the curtain call in a packed house providing them with ovation that they deserve. Costs: Our first year I thought it was a bit expensive too; then I saw the show. They ask for $35-$100 for your costume as others stated and you do need to sell 30 something tickets at $20 apiece. If you sell the tickets then it does not cost you anything for tickets. They are pretty easy to sell. Typically the costume charge is only on the high side if your child has multiple parts and multiple costumes. Regardless of how many parts they have there is a maximum of $100. There may be another fee to be honest I do not remember, but I as I state below it is worth it. I bet the production costs are upwards of $100,000. I too felt like many parents here until I saw the end results. Fantastic!!! I would recommend it to anyone and everyone. Though my wife volunteered with group many parents get free babysitting while there kids are at rehearsal and the show. I would recommend volunteering and sharing in the experience with your child. You can volunteer to help make costumes or work in what I called the 'man cave' though many women helped there too. Though our son did not have time this year for Annie, we will definitely see the show!!! Hope to see many of you there. We will definitely be back for more. Maybe I should mention that many parents come back to volunteer even when their children are not it or fully grown. That should speak volumes too. read more

Karousel kids was a life changing experience for my children. They learned so much about theater and working as a team. They made great friends and felt supported by the staff. I would recommend Karousel Kids to any young performer that is committed and serious about theater. As a parent, I have also made good friends. Thank you Karousel Kids! read more

I am so disappointed in Karousel Kids. I had sat there for nine hours (with my six year old son) so that my daughter could be cast a part in "Annie". We were so excited! She got two parts! One as miss Hannigan's orhpans and one as one as a maid! Little did I know this was a dreadful mistake. I paid 100$ as a down payment and wrote three other checks for 50$ each. After doing so, I then learn about the ticket sales. 36 tickets at 20$ a piece! I do not know 36 people to buy these tickets! That is 720$ that I am responsible for. I am A single mother raising two children! How can I afford this??? I had no idea that this non profit organization would do this. I called prior to the parent meeting to find out what the costs would be and of course, no answer, So I am out 100$ because I paid that, then found out about the ticket sale (100$ can buy my kids a lot of clothes)! and realized, there is no way I could afford this. Karousel Kids is a disgrace. My daughter was let down after I told her I could not afford to let her be in this play. I will be talking to my child's school about handing these deceptive fliers out. This is nothing but a scam. DO NOT trust Karousel Kids. They deserve no star at all! read more

This past summer I went to a show put on by this organization. I went to see a friend's child. I brought my baby and mother with Mre to the show "your a good man Charlie Brown" first if all I had to pay 22 dollars a seat even for the baby. I couldn't take my stroller in then we were asked to leave by the director because my baby was babbling too much. The director never refunded my money even though she said she would. And here it is mouths later and I'm still bothered by this experience I have two baby boys and I will never be putting them in this program due to lack of integrity. I was very disappointed considering my friends have supported this program the past thirty years. read more

After reading these reviews I'm completely surprised. I was provided information on auditions for this years Fame on Broadway . Yes, auditions did take a while. My daughter just turned 5 and was very excited for her new adventure. I didn't know what to expect but I asked questions during auditions and they made it clear with information and they wanted to get the little ones out as fast as they could and they made sure my daughter was well cared for during this time as I and others parents waited in the audience . Parents need to realize casting members and providing a mini dance and vocal to rehearse for auditions is a long process. My daughter got two parts and my niece as well not leads either, I'm okay with that. We were provided information on the next step which was parent meeting. There was an initial fee $255.00 for cast members. We were not forced to pay all at once but provided options to make payments if needed . Durning parent meeting we went over handbook schedule, tickets sales, costume fee, parent involvement, and everything else that takes to move successfully with this production. That alone told me this is not a walk in the park but, I like most families said I'm all in. I knew ...I was going to work hard along side with my daughter. You can't expect to pay a non refundable fee and Sit back. The fee isn't thousands of dollars. We had four months to sell 36 tickets and the ad $35 that's 9 tickets a month. Yes, we need to encourage our children and motivate them and teach them responsibility.It takes dedication, and hours of rehearsal and drive time by parents . This will pay off! I enrolled my daughter for Monday lessons for voice and tap (beginning.)I've seen such improvements with my 5year old. I'm super excited for her. Mrs Alisa has been wonderful and helping me understand my daughters independents. Fame on Broadway Production Started January 26, 2017and ends August 5, 2017. That's 6 months and a few weeks of rehearsal and show time 3 to 5 hours a week or sometimes more towards the end for the show @ $255.00 tuition that's about $ 42.00 or so a month. Come on! I'm sorry I just don't understand. Maybe if it wasn't a non profit then you would pay more and do less! read more

My daughter is four years old. This year was her first year with Karousel Kids. In 2015, my daughter and I saw the production, "Annie" at The Lewis Playhouse in Rancho Cucamonga. I was blown away with the professional production. I was equally impressed that most of the people in the production were children. I was curious as to which performing arts studio put on the production and I discovered it was Karousel Kids. Needless to say, my daughter auditioned for a role in the 2016 summer production, " The Wizard of Oz" and was cast as a munchkin. In July 2016, my daughter performed in seven shows and loved every minute of it! She had an amazing time and cannot wait to do it again next year. As in "Annie", I was blown away with the high level production in "The Wizard of Oz." For example, there was an orchestra and the costumes were very detailed. You will be amazed at what your child can accomplish on stage. My daughter was treated kindly and with the utmost respect. The instructors, volunteers and other parents were warm and friendly. I had a concern involving the way an older child was treating my four year old. After I discussed it with the powers to be, it was handled professionally and remedied right away. I truly do not understand the bad reviews. Parents are encouraged to volunteer. The show could not go on without volunteers. There were grandmothers, mothers and fathers helping out to ensure that the children had a production that they could be proud of all while having a great time. In fact, my husband and I enjoyed volunteering. This was our daughter's moment but we felt great that we could share it with her. Regarding having to sell tickets - I found it very easy to sell 36 tickets. I am hopeful that you will find that many of your friends and family will be happy to support your little one by purchasing tickets. It was easier than I thought. Regarding some of the reviews that Karousel Kids misleads parents about the cost involved - I found this to NOT be true. In fact, Karousel Kids provided information to me immediately. I knew what to expect. In addition, new parents were required to participate in Parent's Night - a meeting where Karousel Kids gave detailed information to the parents. Also, parents were given a packet with detailed information regarding rehearsal dates as well as other pertinent information. Regarding costs, I do not recall the exact amount but I do recall that I did NOT find it to be costly and was pale by comparison to what your child will receive by performing in a Karousel Kids show. Dancing, acting, singing and most importantly - having fun! With that said, I can appreciate that "costly" is a relative term and depends on a person's unique situation. I am not sure but you may want to inquire as to whether there are scholarships or financial assistance through Karousel Kids. Once again, I am not sure but it is worth asking. Just a thought as the experience is priceless. The only con I can think of is that it is time consuming. There are several rehearsal dates. The closer it is to showtime - the more rehearsals. If you are a working parent with a demanding schedule without any help, it may be challenging to get your child to rehearsals. However, you will know the rehearsal dates far in advance to give you an opportunity to make arrangements. FYI - I live about 45 minutes from the studio but it was worth the drive. In closing, this was an AMAZING experience and I have no complaints. I have written a novel but I hope this helps :-) read more

My mother and I are new to Karousel Kids and have compared to experiences in other theatre groups this has been outstanding so far. I am 11 years old, I am in the production of Annie and it has been a warm and loving theater group so far. The director "Alisa" is a wonderful and talented person. The volunteers "Jeff" and "Danielle" are very helpful and wonderful people as well. I have only been doing this show for about 2 months, but I have been doing acting and singing for 8 years and the professionalism meets not just my standards, but my moms and Nana's as well. read more

PLEASE DO NOT FALL FOR THIS SCAM. THEY ARE MORE INTERESTED WITH THE DOLLAR THAN A CHILD. My granddaughter auditioned for 9 hours for the play ANNIE. She was so excited to get a part. That she had to go and find out which part she would play before the meeting on the 28th of January. Mind you it was a 15 minute trip one way, that is how excited she was. At the audition not one mention of how much it would cost. We heard it was a non profit organization and we brought $100. At the meeting we had to pay $255. Since she only had $100 we had to make payment arrangements for the remaining monies in order to get to the next step. The $255 we were told is NON REFUNDABLE. What a scam. Then as the meeting went on we were told we had to sell 36 tickets at $20 a ticket. MANDATORY ticket sells also we had to sell one ad to place in the program. $35 minimum. Also if you didn't sell all tickets you had to pay the remainder. The tickets were total $720. And. . . .If you can't sell or afford to pay the ticket balance your child cannot be in the play. Since I am a single grandmother who helps out with her daughter and m y daughter is single, we couldn't afford to keep my granddaughter in the play. Now we have a heartbroken child that cries her heart out at the idea she cannot be in the play. I guess MONEY is more important than the child. DO NOT GET INVOLVED WITH THIS PROGRAM. THEY ARE A BUNCH OF COLD HEARTED PEOPLE WHO WOULD HURT A CHILD FOR A DOLLAR . read more

I Love this organization!! Alisa is by far one of the best musical theater directors in the area. My daughter is in her 6th production with the group, she not only enjoys it but is proud to be associated with this group. Over the years she has learned to tap dance, sing, stage presence and gained such confidence. As parents we are happy to support our daughter with her passion and feel the money spent is minimal when you compare all that is gained and how busy it will keep your child. There is also "Parent work days" I counted 3 for the current show but they would love to have you for more if they can get you. Although my husband initially frowns (he usually volunteers for set building), he does note that it does bring he and our daughter now 12 closer and gives them more to chat about (he also is very proud of whatever he worked on and makes sure to point it out during each show). The venue for the shows is very nice and professional and having the kids work with an orchestra! Is Amazing! This is a top notch musical theater organization! read more

In the past few days, I have seen some negative comments regarding Karousel Kids. Our daughter participated in this organization for 10 years and benefitted greatly from the positive experience. In fact, she would not have the wonderful position she has today were it not for the training she received in Karousel Kids helping her develop poise and confidence. Last year, we learned our daughter had cancer and would have to endure many months of chemotherapy. Karousel Kids families, and particularly the director, rallied to our side offering comfort, support, and prayers. Many brought meals to our daughter and her family. Over the years, Karousel Kids has done the same for many other families even those that have not been active in the organization for some time. We could not be more pleased our daughter led us to Karousel Kids, and we appreciate the many benefits the organization brought to our family. read more