Questions and Queries
Here are some of the regular questions and queries we receive so we thought we would share them here.
Please get in touch if you have additional queries and we will be happy to help.
My half-term and holidays are different to North Yorkshire Schools - am I excluded?
No, hopefully we can work together so you get the best possible experience from our activities.
I can't make all the dates because of a previous commitment - am I excluded?
No, we know just how busy it gets with school, college, family, part time jobs and we don't want this to be a barrier for you taking part. Talk to us regularly and we will see what we can do to make it work for everyone.
Do I need to bring food and drink with me?
Yes, it is always good to bring something to drink and healthy snacks to help maintain your energy levels. Where possible, we try to provide facilities to make drinks as well. We would rather you didn't leave the session to go and get food but we understand this is not always possible.
What skill level do I need to be?
As long as you are willing to try and have a go you will be fine. We aim to accommodate all skills levels in our activities and tailor each session to allow all participants to progress. Sometimes, it does help to have a few years of instrumental learning and experience but we will talk about this with you in advance if we need to. Please get in touch if you have any concerns.
Do I need to bring food and drink with me?
Yes, it is always good to bring something to drink and healthy snacks to help maintain your energy levels. Where possible, we try to provide facilities to make drinks as well. We would rather you didn't leave the session to go an get food but we understand this is not always possible.
Do I need my own musical instrument?
For our workshops, we always have a range of instruments for participants to use. If you have your own, you are welcome to bring them but it is your responsibility to look after them and keep them safe. We also have a range of instruments and sound equipment we can lend if you want to try an instrument before you decide to purchase your own or taking part or organising a community event. Instruments and equipment can be expensive to replace so it is always advisable to consider having insurance (for example, as part of home contents cover).
Do I need hearing protection?
Some activities are loud by their nature and we encourage everyone to ALWAYS protect their hearing. We have disposable ear plugs and headphones participants can use. It is always good to have your own protection too. We can assist so do get in touch.
What do I need to wear?
We recommend comfortable and sensible clothing. You might be standing for some of the time. You might be cold if we have to keep air ciculating etc. It is always good to be prepared.
I am auditioning for my Youth Theatre/ School production/ Band so I might be part of another production/ concert at the same time - will this be OK?
Yes, as long as the dates work and you feel you can commit fully to both activities. These are all great opportunities and we hope you get a lot of enjoyment and experience by taking part. We are happy to have a chat with you so you can make an informed, and inparticial, decision that is right for you.
I am 19 (or older)/ have left school/ work as an apprentice/ study at College/ University - can I still be involved?
Yes, most of our projects run up to age 25yrs and then we have volunteering opportunities and bursary support from our BlueAngels scheme to help where needed. Our aim is to offer cross-generational projects and activities ideal for those learning their craft, looking to gain experience, demonstrate skills for their portfolio or taking part in a hobby they enjoy.
The creative team are flexible in their approach and welcome ideas from everyone involved. Our ethos is built on respecting each other and allowing everyone to express themselves. We encourage mentoring and skill sharing and believe we all have something to offer and are never too old to learn and develop new methods and ways of working.
We already have a family holiday/ school music tour booked and some of the dates clash?
Don't worry, as long as we know the dates we might be able to schedule rehearsals/ performances to work for everyone. You might not be the only person in this position! We will try and be as flexible as possible so contact us first before taking a decision.
What will I get out of being involved?
There are lots of benefits you can get when you take part in a community performing arts activities. Here are a few...
-
An opportunity to work alongside professionals and meet with other like-minded young people from the area who may attend a different school, college or group.
-
A chance to find out whether the performing arts is an area you are interested in and would like to do more by joining a group of choosing to study.
-
A chance to boost your CV or personal statement by showing activities you are involved with outside of school.
-
A chance to gain a nationally recognised qualification by studying for An Arts Award which can offer UCAS points for entry into university. [Arts Award is very similar to the DofE (Duke of Edinburgh Awards for outdoor activities). Young people identify a new skill to research and learn, volunteer to share and present an artform and present their achievements. Levels include Discover and Explore, Bronze, Silver and Gold.]
What if I have never performed in public before?
Come along and see if you like it! We want you to enjoy the experience and have a great time. Performances are always optional. Some participants might be a member of a drama group, dance school or music ensemble or may never have had the opportunity to take part in a live performance before. We are providing opportunities to come together with other like-minded individuals and work alongside professionals to create high quality and entertaining experience for both performers, audiences and supporters.
I already have my own recording setup and use Ableton Live/ Audition/ Cubase/ Logic/ Protools software, can I still be involved?
Yes, whether your are new to recording and production or have some experience everyone is welcome. Your skills will be invaluable to help all participants get the most out of the sessions and we want to hear and learn from your knowledge and experiences. We know you will get a lot out of the programme as well and it will look great on your personal statement. The choice of software doesn't matter there are lots of similarities and your finished music or individual stems can be imported/ exported from VIP Studio or other software we use in the group sessions so you can continue working outside of the sessions.
Does it cost to take part?
BlueBoxt activities are currently free for those experiencing financial hardship or taking part in projects where we have external funding. BlueAngels is our individual giving programme where our supporters, donors and volunteers can help support the true cost of running the sessions and the organisation. There may be additional charges from time to time such as exam entry fees or associated costs such as room hire but these will be discussed individually as required.
Bursaries are available subject to funding. Applications are made by letter or email and considered in confidence by the Management Committee on a case by case basis. Please ask for further information and guidance, we are more than happy to discuss options with you.
Is it just aimed at amateurs or are their professional opportunities too?
We have the same expectation as if we were working with paid professionals! We expect everyone to be fully commited and work as a team - we have a challenging schedule to keep to meet our performance and project deadlines and always aim to deliver a highly polished and high quality performance for our audiences to enjoy. That said, we know it will be both hard work and demanding but also a very rewarding and enjoyable experience too.
There are also opportunities to be part of our professional touring stage productions. Talk to us if you are interested in all aspects of running and presenting in community arts spaces and profesisonal theatres.