We are fortunate to have a place like Top Billing Entertainment (TBE), where children can learn,…read moreperform, and be part of a community centered around the arts. My child genuinely enjoys the classes, and I have seen regular improvements in her movement, confidence, and performance.
I am giving TBE a 3-star rating because I believe there are two significant areas for improvement.
1. Organization and Communication
TBE has an opportunity to become much more organized.
On numerous occasions, classes have started late or instructors have arrived after the scheduled start time. There have also been times when instructors have needed to stop class to remember routines or choreography before continuing. While understandable from time to time, it happens often enough that it reduces the amount of instructional time the children receive.
Communication is another area that could be improved. Most information is shared through the Band app, but it is cluttered and difficult to navigate. When parents ask questions, they are often directed back to the app instead of receiving a direct answer. I would much rather receive emails, similar to the clear communication TBE sends for summer camp.
A portion of classes is also spent reviewing upcoming shows, participation requirements, deadlines, and other announcements. While these updates are important, much of this information is repeated week after week and could easily be communicated by email instead, allowing children to spend more time learning and practicing.
The website could also be maintained better. Show tickets are sold online, but the website is not consistently updated, making it difficult to know when tickets are available. On several occasions, email links have directed parents to outdated or expired pages.
Scheduling can be frustrating. Parents commit to a class schedule and plan around those times, only to have classes combined with another class, resulting in schedule changes. I understand that adjustments are sometimes necessary, but greater consistency and planning would be appreciated.
Classroom capacity is another concern. Depending on what else is happening, too many children are sometimes placed into the smaller classroom, which has poor ventilation. It becomes crowded enough that children are unable to practice effectively, and even instructors have commented during class about how crowded the room is while asking students to simply do their best.
2. Pricing and Value
I also believe TBE should reconsider parts of its pricing model.
Parents already pay monthly tuition, purchase costumes, and buy tickets to attend performances. In addition, children are sometimes required to pay participation fees to perform in the shows themselves. As a nonprofit organization, I worry that these additional fees may unintentionally price some lower-income families out of participating.
Ticket prices can also become expensive, especially after online service fees are added. Two tickets can easily cost between $50 and $90 depending on seating. Since many performances are held at the school, more family-friendly pricing would be appreciated.
There are also occasions when students are required to wear a TBE shirt for an event. If a family doesn't already own one, they must purchase another item simply for their child to participate.
One small thing that stood out to me is that if a child forgets to bring a water bottle, parents are required to purchase a $2 cup so their child can drink water. While the cost itself is minor, it feels like a missed opportunity to extend a simple courtesy. Considering the various fees families already pay, providing a complimentary cup would be a small gesture that demonstrates care and appreciation for the families who support the program.
Despite these concerns, I remain grateful that a place like TBE exists. My child enjoys being part of the program, and I appreciate the opportunities it provides for children to grow through the performing arts.
I am sharing these observations because I genuinely want to see TBE continue to grow and succeed. I hope this feedback encourages continued improvement and also helps parents who are considering the program better understand what to expect.
