Arts & Learning Conservatory 151 Kalmus Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

"Of course the children were outstanding. As we all know, they are growing, learning, and developing their character for future opportunities. However, I observed a few distractions during my experience. 1. The cast lacks true diversity. Yes, African Americans especially to be exact. There were a few Asians Americans and possibly one or two Latin Americans. But one obvious black girl who was exceptional. Which I thought was odd the role she played in Le Mes was maybe two or three appearances throughout the play. I digress. 2. If these children are trying to diversify their portfolio in Broadway for future opportunities. Why are all of the chosen productions lacking in this area. Perhaps the primary sponsors are the parents of the main characters. 3. Let’s cut to the chase the last production I had the please to end was great. There were 6 African American children at most however Matilda had one. Now, I myself have had the privilege of performing. Not once had I ever seen a cast of that many individuals of color and only one qualified for future productions. Unless someone didn’t give them a call back on purpose. Now, I do not want to fluff anyones feather but if the founder is an African American one why does her projects lack representation of her own race. Not through nepotism because i know for a fact there are countless talented individuals who can play the main characters. As we all know once these children grow and audition for commercial productions, they will see color a lot. Why choose plays that will not allow them to be front and center. I hope the next production has brown or black main characters regardless of the play chosen. Until then, I will withdraw any financial support along with my colleagues."

"What the Arts & Learning conservatory is accomplishing, to me is invaluable. Children need the arts, any way you shake a stick at it (I was kind of a lost kid until I discovered art myself). The breadth of programs and camps they offer is what makes them special. From music camps to theater. Even if you are not a student, you can still go catch one of their fun shows, which I recommend. The whole production is much better than you would imagine. If I was kid these today, I would totally choose Arts & Learning over the poison ivy and wedgies I got at traditional summer camp. Highly recommend for children and adults to shake it up and see a show!"

"This was my first time to watch a show that the Arts and Learning Conservatory produced. Impressive is the first word that comes to mind. The talent that the cast displayed was top notch. The sets, the acting, the singing, everything was great. I was definitely entertained! If you have children who have the slightest inkling to act I strongly encourage you to send them to the Arts and Learning Conservatory. You will be surprised at the talent that Ms. Wondercheck and her team can pull out of the kids. The talent is a bonus skill that your child will gain but you can be assured that your child will also lean in a professional environment with a strong sense of integrity. I look forward to other productions in the future."

"I'm not a musical or theater type person but I watched the production of Hairspray and I really enjoyed it. The kids in the show were very talented and the overall production was impressive. My wife and I would watch future productions. It was an enjoyable way to spend our afternoon."

"Not to content with the outcome of this. The instructor for introduction to theater definitely needs more experience with children. No facial expressions, very cold with kids and mean and absolutely no communication with the Parents. I will not be coming back."