Parents & New Members
Frequently Asked Questions
Straightforward answers to common questions from parents and new members.
Got a question about joining STAMP, classes, fees or performances? You'll find answers to our most frequently asked questions below. If you can't find what you're looking for, just get in touch.
Joining STAMP
Which group is right for a 6- or 13-year-old?
A 6-year-old would usually join STAMP Minis and a 13-year-old would usually join Green Group. If you would like advice about your child's individual placement, please contact us.
Who can attend STAMP?
STAMP welcomes children and young people who want to sing, dance, act and perform. No previous experience is needed.
What happens if a class is full?
If a class is currently full, the joining page will show the options available. This may include joining a waiting list or registering interest for a future intake.
Can a complete beginner join musical theatre?
Absolutely. Our classes are designed to help children and young people learn, practise and enjoy singing, dancing and acting in a supportive group environment.
Are STAMP classes currently accepting new members?
Availability changes throughout the year. Check our Classes or Join STAMP pages for the latest availability and trial options.
Does my child need previous experience?
No. STAMP welcomes complete beginners as well as young performers with previous experience. Sessions help every member develop their singing, dancing and acting skills from their own starting point.
How do I enrol my child?
Visit our Join STAMP page, choose the appropriate age group and follow the joining or trial booking instructions.
My child is shy. Will musical theatre suit them?
Absolutely. Children join STAMP with all different levels of confidence. Nobody is expected to arrive ready to perform on their own. Our classes include lots of ensemble work, allowing children to build confidence, make friends and develop their performance skills at their own pace.
What age can my child start at STAMP?
Children can join STAMP from age 3. Our groups are organised by age so that sessions are suitable, enjoyable and engaging for everyone.
Can my child try a class before joining?
Where spaces are available, children can usually book a trial before joining. Visit the Join STAMP page to see the current options for each group.
How do STAMP waiting lists work?
If a group is full, we may open a waiting list through ClassManager. Where a waiting list is available, you will see the option on the relevant class or joining page.
Is an audition required to join a weekly group?
No. You do not need to audition to join our regular weekly classes. Some productions may have separate auditions for principal or named roles.
Which group is right for my child?
Minis is for ages 3–6, Blue Group is for ages 7–12 and Green Group is for ages 13+. If you are unsure which group would be the best fit, get in touch and our team will be happy to help.
Classes
What happens in a STAMP class?
Our weekly classes combine singing, dancing or movement, and acting. The balance changes depending on the age group and what members are learning or rehearsing at the time.
How long are STAMP classes?
Minis: 1 hour 30 minutes. Blue: 3 hours. Green: 3 hours.
Do the classes include dance?
Yes. All groups include age-appropriate movement or dance, helping members develop coordination, confidence and performance skills.
Do the classes include drama and acting?
Yes. Acting is part of every group, with creative play in Minis and a growing focus on character, scenes and performance in Blue and Green.
Do all STAMP groups include singing?
Yes. Singing is part of every STAMP group, from playful songs in Minis to vocal technique and ensemble work in Blue and Green.
How often does my child attend?
Minis members attend one weekly session. Blue and Green members can attend one or two weekly sessions, depending on the membership plan chosen. Production rehearsals may involve additional dates.
Fees & Membership
How do I cancel membership?
Existing members should contact STAMP using the usual member communication route or send their membership query through ClassManager. The team will explain the next steps that apply to your membership.
Is there a fee option for siblings?
Sibling membership plans are available for some groups. Please check the relevant class page for the current options and fees.
How much do STAMP classes cost?
Fees vary by group and membership plan. Please check the relevant class page for current monthly fees so you always have the latest information.
When are monthly fees taken?
Monthly membership payments are normally taken around the 1st of each month by Direct Debit through ClassManager. The exact date can depend on your bank.
What to Wear & Bring
What should my child bring?
Bring a clearly named drink and any scripts, music or other materials the team has asked for. A notebook and pencil may also be useful during rehearsals.
What should my child wear?
Established members should wear appropriate black clothing, suitable dance or performance footwear and STAMP clothing where their group requires it. New members do not need to buy lots of specialist clothing before trying their first class—comfortable clothes suitable for movement and secure footwear are a good start.
Performances & Productions
Do families need to provide costumes?
STAMP provides most production costumes. Members may occasionally be asked to bring simple items they already own, such as a T-shirt, trousers or suitable shoes. We try to avoid asking families to buy anything new and will work with you to find something suitable.
Do productions require extra rehearsals?
Yes, productions will usually involve additional rehearsals outside normal weekly classes, particularly as the performance approaches. The rehearsal schedule and attendance expectations are shared with members taking part in each production.
Is every child guaranteed a named role?
No. Casting depends on the production and the roles available. Ensemble members are an important part of our productions and are involved in singing, dancing, acting and creating the overall show.
How often do STAMP students perform?
Performance is an important part of STAMP. Throughout the year, members may have opportunities to take part in productions, showcases and other events. Opportunities vary depending on the group, age and production.
Are there auditions for STAMP productions?
Some productions have auditions for principal or named roles. Audition information and casting arrangements are shared separately for each production. You do not need to audition to join our regular weekly classes.
Parents & Practical Information
Where are STAMP classes held?
Regular weekly classes are held at STAMP Studios, 5 Frederick Street, South Shields, Tyne and Wear, NE33 5DY.
What happens if my child misses a class?
If your child cannot attend a session, please let the team know using the usual member communication route. If you are unsure who to contact, get in touch with us.
Do parents stay during the class?
Parents do not normally need to stay for the full session. We will explain drop-off and collection arrangements when your child joins. If your child may need additional support settling in, please speak to us beforehand.
Is there parking or a drop-off point at STAMP Studios?
Parking on Frederick Street is time-limited, so it is best suited to drop-off and collection. Please check the current street signs and allow time to find a suitable longer-stay space nearby if needed.
Safeguarding, Support & Accessibility
Can STAMP support a child with additional needs?
Yes. We want children and young people to be able to take part and enjoy their time at STAMP. If your child has an additional need, disability, medical condition or needs some extra support, please contact us before their first session so we can talk through how we can best support them.
Where can I read STAMP's safeguarding policy?
Safeguarding is a priority at STAMP. If you would like a copy of our safeguarding policy or have a safeguarding question, please contact us.
Are STAMP staff DBS checked?
STAMP uses appropriate DBS checks and licensed chaperones where required for work with children.
Is STAMP Studios step-free and accessible?
STAMP Studios is on the first floor and unfortunately does not currently have step-free access. If you or your child has an access requirement, please contact us before attending and we will be happy to discuss what support or alternative arrangements may be possible.
Contact & Updates
How can I contact STAMP?
For general enquiries, email info@st-amp.co.uk or call 0191 580 1959. Existing members should normally use ClassManager or their usual member communication route. For ticket enquiries, please use our TicketSource box office where relevant.
Where does STAMP publish updates?
Follow STAMP on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube for news, photos and updates. For current class availability, joining options and production details, please use our website.
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Related parent guides
Preparing for Your First Class
What to check, bring and expect before your child’s first regular STAMP session.
How to Join STAMP
A clear route from choosing an age-appropriate group to attending a first session.
What Happens During a STAMP Class?
An orientation to the activities and group experience a child may encounter in a regular session.

