There are few things as exhilarating for young performers than the chance to showcase their talents to thousands of people. Getting students up on stage not only allows them to display their skills, but also gives them some much needed experience performing in front of crowds. Band directors and performance organizers constantly seek out these opportunities for their student groups, looking for parades, festivals and shows where their music and dancing can be enjoyed. Central Florida’s Universal Orlando Resort® welcomes student performance groups to take the stage at one of many locations around the park.
Universal offers stage performances, marching opportunities and workshops to student performance groups of all kinds. Whether you have a marching band, concert band, dance team, choir or other performing group, Universal offers an unparalleled experience.
Stage Performances
A performance opportunity unlike any other, the STARS Stage Performance Program gives non-marching groups the chance to share their music and talents with hundreds of Universal guests. It’s a fun and exciting experience for young performers that will leave them with wonderful lifelong memories. Band directors and student groups who have participated in the program in the past have described it as one of the best experiences of their lives, and felt honored to perform at a place like Universal.
Performances can take place at one of several locations around Universal Studios Florida® theme park or at the Plaza Stage in the Universal CityWalk® entertainment complex.
When you’re selected for the program, you will need to purchase theme park tickets, as they are required for all performance groups. Performances should be 30 minutes long, and include positive and energetic music. After the applause has subsided, students can complete their experience with a go on some of Universal’s thrilling rides and attractions.
Marching Opportunities
For a truly unique performance setting, school bands can march through Universal Studios Florida®, entertaining park guests as they take to the streets. Marching opportunities are available year round at the park. Bands can march through the streets right before Universal’s Superstar Parade steps off. Bands will follow the exact route of the parade, which means crowds will already be lining up and waiting to cheer them on.
Student marching bands can also be part of the Macy’s Holiday Parade, which takes place on select nights in December. Your group will perform alongside authentic floats and balloons from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as Universal theme park characters and Santa Claus, of course.
Bands accepted to the program will perform up to a one-mile march through the theme park, and bands must continue playing throughout the entire marching route.
Workshops
At Universal, there are a number of resources for youth performance groups to improve their skills and practice in front of audiences. Workshops offer students a hands-on learning experience, where they receive real-world advice from professionals to help them explore different career paths in the arts. All Universal’s workshops are developed to align with National Standards for Music Education and Core Arts Standards.
In the Sound Design: Music and the Art of Foley workshop, band, choir or orchestra students get an inside look at what it’s like to work as a movie musician. They will compose music or choral arrangements for movie scenes, and even create sound effects. The workshop was designed by Robert W. Smith, a world-renowned music educator and composer.
Dance is UNIVERSAL! A Workshop with the Professionals is a unique experience for dance troops. Students will learn what it’s like to be a professional dancer. They get the chance to work on an original themed routine incorporating ballet, jazz and musical theater, which is all choreographed and taught by one of Universal’s highly trained performers and choreographers. In addition, they receive tips for writing a captivating resume and having a successful audition, helping them to prepare for the competitive dance world.
To be considered for the STARS Stage and Marching program, there are some criteria that must be met:
• Participating groups should have a minimum of 40 performers.
• Completed applications need to be submitted at least six weeks prior to the proposed performance date.
• Applications should include a non-returnable DVD or link to your group’s most recent performance, as well as a written script of any spoken material that will be used in the performance.
• Uniforms are required for every performance and subject to approval.
Many of the same criteria apply to the workshops, but uniforms are not required.
If you’re looking for a fun and unique performance opportunity for your band, choir or dance group, Universal is the place.
