Welcome to the 10th Season of TPS
This packet will contain all the information you will need to know for all classes at The Player’s Studio (TPS). Please be sure to keep this for your reference and of course never hesitate to contact us if you have further questions or needs at any point during the year.
Staff and Volunteers:
Karen Culbertson: Director
864-321-2510
Ryan Culbertson: Set Design
Elanor Culbertson: Costume Design
Maya Wylie: YPS and Players Assistant Director
Aaron Aguilar: JPS Assistant Director
Sofia Aguilar: JPS Acting Coach
Malayna Aguillon: Players Acting Coach
Student Leaders: TBA
Board of Directors:
Joseph McCoy, President
Cassandra Aguilon Ryan Culbertson
Karen Culbertson Omar Rodriguez
Class Descriptions
The Players:
The Players class is for students aged 14 -18 years as of September 1 of the current school season. This is a performing group. The Players will perform two shows during the school season in December and May. Students may enroll by semester. All students who are enrolled in the class are guaranteed a role in the productions. Roles include being cast in the play, cast as a swing or understudy and/or being assigned to back stage and technical jobs. All roles are extremely important in producing a successful show. As a focused performing group, our expectations for this class are very high. Students will be required to sign Casting Contracts accepting their given roles and the requirements for participation. Students are expected to fulfill these contracts with responsibility and professionalism. Failure to fulfill contract obligations will result in losing your role.
Materials: Script, highlighter, pencil - these are required everyday
Fall ‘26 Performance: Charlotte’s Web (in collaboration with JPS)
Spring ‘27 Performance: The Little Prince
The Junior Players (JPS): The Junior Players class is for students ages 10-13 years as of September 1 of the current school season. This class focuses on both class work and performance skills. The JPS group alternate semesters with one focused on theatrical skills classes and/or collaborating with The Players and the second focused on a JPS performance. Students may enroll by semester, but we highly recommend the class semesters as perfect times to engage in the skills that make one a successful actor/technician/crew. All students who are enrolled in the production semester are guaranteed a role in the production. Roles include being cast in the play, cast as a swing or understudy and/or being assigned to back stage and technical jobs. All roles are extremely important in producing a successful show. Students will be required to sign Casting Contracts accepting their given roles and the requirements for participation. Students are expected to fulfill these contracts with responsibility and professionalism. Failure to fulfill contract obligations will result in losing your role.
Materials: Materials vary depending on the curriculum and performance but include script, highlighter, pencil, class notebook, handouts or other specific materials- these are required everyday.
Fall ‘26 Performance: Charlotte’s Web (in collaboration with the Players)
Spring ‘27 Performance: How to Get Away With a Murder Mystery
The Young Players (YPS):
The Young Player’s class is for students ages 6-9 years as of September 1 of the current school season. This class alternates between at least one performance per year and class study on an aspect of theatrical arts. Students may enroll by semester. All students who are enrolled in the class are guaranteed a role in the productions. Roles include being cast in the play, cast as a swing or understudy and/or being assigned to back stage and technical jobs. All roles are extremely important in producing a successful show.
Materials: Materials vary depending on the curriculum and performance but include script, highlighter, pencil, class notebook, handouts or other specific materials - these are required everyday
Fall ‘26 Performance: Baba Yaga: A Russian Folk Tale
Spring ‘26 Class: How it Works: Theatre Jobs
Schedule
Class Times:
All classes will meet on Mondays at First Presbyterian of McAllen at 104 S 12th Street. Class times are as follows:
Fall 2026
Young Players (6-9 years) - 10:30am to 12:00pm
Players (14-18 years) and Junior Players (10-13) - 4:00pm to 7:00pm
Spring 2027
Young Players (6-9 years) - 10:30am to 12:00pm
Junior Players (10-13) - 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Players (14-18 years) - 5:00pm to 7:30pm
2026-2027 Important Dates:
Fall 2026 Schedule
August 3 - Orientation 6pm @ First Pres
We strongly encourage all parents and students to attend
August 10 - Charlotte’s Web Auditions 4pm to 7pm @ First Pres
August 17 - All classes begin (see times above)
September 12 or 26 - Yard Sale
Details to follow, start saving your items
October - Spirit Month
Farm Day
Fairytale Day
Explorer Day
Mystery Day
October 8 - Performance with our partners at the RGVDSA
This is not part of the educational programing but we encourage all of our families to attend and support.
Details to follow
October 21 - Photo Day for all students
Details to follow
October 26 - All Season or Fall Sponsorships Due
November 18 - YPS Dress Rehearsal for Baba Yaga
This rehearsal will likely be at the McAllen Public Library and will be scheduled for approximately the same time as class.
November 19 - YPS Performance of Baba Yaga
This performance will likely be at the McAllen Public Library, 6:30pm
December 7 - YPS Christmas Party during regular class times
December 10 - Players and JPS Dress Rehearsal for Charlotte’s Web
This rehearsal will be at the Edinburg Municipal Auditorium in the evening
December 11 and 12 - Players and JPS Performance of Charlotte’s Web
These performances will be at the Edinburg Municipal, We will do at least three performances. Any additional performances for schools will depend on actor availability and interest from schools and other organizations.
December 14 - Players and JPS Christmas Party
Spring 20267 Schedule
January 11 - New Student Orientation/The Little Prince and How to Get Away with a Murder Mystery Auditions
Details to follow
Jan 18 - All classes begin (see times above)
March - T Shirt Design Contest
March 12 - Community Dinner Theatre @ The Art Village on Main
This is not part of the educational programing but we encourage all of our families to attend and support.
March 17 - Community Players Production @ McAllen Mobile Home Park
This is not part of the educational programing but we encourage all of our families to attend and support.
March 24 - Photo Day for both productions and new students
Details to follow
April 22 - JPS Dress Rehearsal for How to Get Away With a Murder Mystery
This rehearsal will be at the performance venue and may be an all day schedule. Please keep this day open.
April 23 and 24 - JPS Performance of How to Get Away With a Murder Mystery
These performances will be at a local venue. We will do at least two performances.
April 26 - YPS and JPS Final Parties during normal class times
May 13 - Players Dress Rehearsal for The Little Prince
This rehearsal will be at the Edinburg Municipal Auditorium in the evening
May 14 and 15 - Players Performance of The Little Prince
These performances will be at the Edinburg Municipal, We will do at least three performances.
May 17 - Players final party
May 24 6:30 pm - Celebration Banquet, details to come
*NOTE: Dates are subject to change and venue availability. Also other activities and events may be added to the schedule. Keep this document pinned and refer to it often.
General Information
Fees: Your fees help to sustain this program in many ways. We use this money to buy costumes, get materials and supplies for sets and props, pay licensing fees to publishing companies, provide liability insurance, pay rent and compensate our staff. Many programs like TPS charge monthly what we are charging per semester.
The hard line value for this program including the listed necessities above is $540 per semester at minimum. However, it is and always has been our goal to make the performing arts accessible to all. In order to continue with this commitment to affordable excellence and see growth in our program we must use other means to help fund the program. This includes sponsorships, donations and fundraisers. Please read further to see how we need your help.
Registration Fee (nonrefundable): $45 per family per year, due at the time of initial registration.
Semester Fee: Fees for the semester include script fees, one Season 10 tshirt, and the cost of classes and productions for the semester. These fees must be paid at the beginning of the semester.
$200 - this will be the cost per semester for each student
$230 - above and beyond for those who may be able to sustain more
$180 - reduced fee to assist those who may have multiple students in the program or may need financial assistance.
Monthly payment option for the year is $50 per month x 10 months. Monthly payments are due by the 15th of each month. Late payments of any fee will incur a $5 late charge for each week payment is late.
Payment methods: Zelle to [email protected], cash or check (in a clearly marked envelope), or online invoice with credit/debit card (convenience fee applies). Please note: there will be no PayPal or CashApp option.
*NOTE: We believe our prices and options to be reasonable but acknowledge that sometimes help is needed. If you can pay the full tuition or beyond, thank you. If you need the reduced rate or perhaps additional assistance, we are happy to discuss all options with you.
Fundraising: Performing Arts Programs are typically very expensive. As stated above, at TPS it is our goal to keep the fees for participation as low as possible so that theatre may be accessible to many. In order to do this we must generate income from other places. In other words, we must fundraise. We require our families to help with this in three ways:
Participate in at least one of our major fundraising events.
Each family is required to raise an additional $300 beyond their fees by helping bring in Production Sponsors, purchasing actor dedication pages, or making/finding a donation.
Invite people to see our shows. Ticket sales help our bottom line and go right back into the program.
Volunteer help: Our productions and classes require many volunteers in order to run. We need food donations, ticket takers, concessions sellers, party organizers, and help behind the scenes. Show volunteers will receive a free ticket to the show of your choice. Every family is required to volunteer for at least one area during the year and you may sign up for more. Sign ups will happen at the beginning of each semester.
Communication: We communicate with our classes in two ways: email and WhatsApp. Long messages with a lot of information will be sent via email. Short updates will be sent in WhatsApp. Both options may be utilized by parents and students. Please be sure that both the TPS email ([email protected]) and the Director’s email ([email protected]) are added to your contacts to avoid messages being sent to spam. Also, please download WhatsApp if you do not have it and scan the invite code to join the group if you are not already in it. During class/rehearsal days the Director will check the WhatsApp messages before and after class and during breaks but will not be available to message during active class times. If you have an emergency and need to speak with someone immediately, please call. *We are moving away from BAND as people seemed to be consistently missing messages and updates.
Please know that we encourage and appreciate open communication from our students and their parents. If you have any concerns, questions, suggestions or simply desire to talk about your role or class work, the Director is always willing to make herself available. You may text, email or schedule an appointment at any time. Emergencies will of course always be handled with haste and care. Should an issue require more attention the TPS Board of Directors is also available and more than willing to speak with parents or students.
Social Media/Promotions: Social Media posts and promotions as well as physical promotions must be in keeping with TPS standards. All posts and promotions relating to The Player’s Studio must be appropriate and uphold the values of the studio. Negative social media posts about TPS, its members or volunteers will not be tolerated. Students and parents are not authorized to speak on behalf of TPS regarding policy or procedure. Posts must not reveal any elements of productions or studio plans without permission from the Director. However, we would that parents, students and friends promote shows and classes. Follow the example set by the official website and social media pages when in doubt. As licensed shows often have strict guidelines on what can and cannot appear on promotional material, an easy way to promote productions and other activities is to follow and share the official pages. Any posts regarding TPS must include #theplayersstudio. Official posters are available upon request.
Student Leader Program: Students enrolled in The Players have a special opportunity to apply for the Student Leader Program. These students are chosen to learn and assist in several areas at TPS. Student Leader positions include: Class Assistant, Stage Manager, Sound Director, Light Director, Props Manager, Social Media Assistant, etc... These students are chosen through application during the registration process. Requirements for these positions are completion of the application, an interview for the position, experience in the position or desire to learn the position, at least one full year in a TPS program, and a reputation of being a hard worker and teachable student. Student Leaders are expected to set an example for other students through their conduct, responsibility to their work, and general behavior.
Monthly Awards and Celebration Banquet: TPS is proud to honor outstanding students with our awards program. We ask much of our students and desire to reward their efforts throughout the year.
Player of the Month: Each month one student from each class will be chosen as Player of the Month. Player of the Month is a student who demonstrates leadership, servanthood, encouragement of others and/or responsibility for their own work/actions during the month. This means that they have been consistent in their work and active in their respect towards others and the program. Player of the Month will be featured on social media and receive a certificate and award from B’s In A Pod Boba Tea and Bubble Waffles Cafe.
End of the Year Celebration Banquet: At the end of the year we will hold a banquet and ceremony to celebrate all students who have participated during the year. We also welcome our sponsors, our Community Players and The RGVDSA Players to join in this celebration. Awards will be given at this banquet and will vary, including recognition of seniors, recognition of student leaders, recognition of all Player of the Month recipients, student voted acting awards and Director’s awards.
Rules and Expectations
1) Please be respectful at all times to the directors, volunteers and to each other. This includes not talking while other people or the director are talking or performing and not interrupting or distracting class and rehearsal. We cannot learn together if we cannot listen to one another. Respect also means that we are all expected to be aware of the diverse nature of our drama community and agree to be careful with our language, conversational topics, and opinions. Keep in mind that we are together for the purpose of theatre and that this unifying factor must be the basis for our in class relations and the focus of our class time. Disrespect of staff, volunteers, parents or other students will result in removal from the class for the day or permanently in the case of repeated or severe offenses.
2) Students are expected to be exceptional representatives of TPS and the values of the organization at all times and in all spheres both public and private. This includes, but is not exclusive to class, field trips, social media, and casual conversations. We ask that you take pride in the organization you are part of by promoting classes and shows among your friends and neighbors.
3) Be careful with your critiques. As artists and actors we can only grow when people offer constructive criticism. However, no critique of another’s performance should be without recognition of what was done well and must never include cruel or derogatory language. Our goal must always be to encourage and improve.
4) You must be respectful of church and studio property. First Presbyterian allows us to meet in their facilities with minimal fee. We will be responsible and careful in our treatment of the church property, building, and equipment. Any accidental damage must be reported immediately and must be compensated for with either a replacement item or payment for the damages. Studio property includes costumes, class supplies, set pieces and props, technical gear etc… These items must be handled with care when in use and must be put away properly. Willful destruction of church or studio property will result in restitution of the property and dismissal from the program.
5) Students are not permitted to leave the rehearsal area during class times unless it is to use the bathroom or if accompanied by a parent, teacher, or volunteer. Our group is restricted to the immediate area around the Fellowship Hall and we must enter through the designated door by the Hall. Please, ask permission of the directors, volunteers or assisting parents before you go to the bathroom.
6) If a student needs to be picked up early for any reason, a parent or older sibling must come into the building and be sure the directors, volunteers, or other parent assistant knows the student is leaving. Students will not be allowed to leave the building to meet their ride. If a student is driving themselves and needs to be dismissed early, please send a note or message to the teacher as soon as possible.
7) If a student must miss class please note that it is helpful to know as soon as possible. Drama is a group activity and all activities depend on full participation.
8) Students from other class times or siblings of students may stay at First Pres. for the duration of drama so long as they have obtained prior permission from the directors and agree to follow the rules. This means they will be expected to stay quiet, be occupied with work, stay in the Hall, respect church property, and get permission to go to the bathroom. Parents will be expected to immediately pick up any student or sibling disrupting class time. This privilege will be revoked for any infraction.
9) All families must be on record as having read and agreed to the Waiver and Photo Waiver before a student can be allowed to attend class. These acknowledgements were part of the registration process. If you have not yet officially registered you must do so before the first class. In addition, all families must acknowledge that they have received and read this packet and all it contains by returning the acknowledgment page on the first day of class.
10) Food and Drink are permitted within the following parameters: Drinks must be sealed. Please do not bring candy and avoid extremely messy foods. All trash must be thrown away and students’ areas kept neat. Gum and hard candies are NOT allowed. If you wish to share a snack or treat with the group please get permission from the Director before doing so.
11) Bullying, gossip and verbal abuse will not be tolerated. Drama is an art form that requires trust and these behaviors, aside from being inappropriate in any circumstance, hinders the development of community needed for theatre to thrive. Bullying is considered to be any action that causes mental, emotional or physical harm to another person or causes another to feel unsafe for any reason. Bullying can sometimes be difficult to determine as one person may believe they are being bullied and the other party may believe they are “joking” or “teasing”. The easiest way to avoid bullying in any form is to consciously respect other’s boundaries including ceasing any behavior or speech another has asked you to discontinue without hesitation or justification. Students will be approached and warned if bullying behavior is discovered or reported. If the behavior continues the student will be removed from the program.
12) Physical abuse and unwanted physical contact, sexual or otherwise, will not be tolerated. While theatre is often an intimate act that requires one to behave in ways different from our normal person, no one must ever be made to feel uncomfortable, manipulated or abused. Students who engage in this type of conduct will be approached and warned. If the behavior is severe or continues the student will be removed from the program.
13) Phones and electronics are NOT permitted during class time. All phones will be collected and placed in a sealed box at the beginning of class and returned at the end of class. Please be sure that documents needed for class have been printed and are brought to class as digital documents will not be allowed. Only a student who has been asked to record or photograph class activities will be allowed to have a device. If a parent must contact their child in an emergency situation they should call the director directly. Nonemergencies should be communicated via the WhatApp groups, which will be monitored by staff as stated above. Please do not call during class for nonemergencies.
14) Dress Code: Until costumes are in use, all students are expected to comply with the TPS dress code. This code is in place to allow for ease of movement/comfort during rehearsal, safety, and group unity. This is especially important as we are sharing our space with other groups and need to identify our participants quickly and easily. Students not in compliance will be asked to change and will not be allowed to participate in class until they have done so.
Tops: All students must wear a TPS shirt. Season 10 shirts are part of your registration and other shirts are available at our new Red Bubble store.
Bottoms: Students must wear either long pants or shorts that are at least mid-thigh length. No skirts or dresses.
Shoes: Shoes must be close-toed and close-backed. Flip flops, high-heels, loose sandals, and crocs are not permitted.
Jackets: Students must expect to remove jackets and outerwear when they arrive at class. If a student is cold or uncomfortable they may ask permission to keep outer layers on but those layers must be without logo, graphics, or slogans. TPS sweatshirts are available at our new Red Bubble store.
Hair and Accessories: No brimmed hats of any kind should be worn in class. Jewelry must be minimal and simple so nothing can snag or become damaged. It is strongly recommended that hair should be pulled away from the face in a ponytail, half ponytail or headband.
Performance Clothing: All Actors must provide their own quick change undergarments. This includes: a nude tank, camisole or body suit; nude or black biker shorts. This allows actors to comfortably change around other actors in crowded dressing rooms or during quick change scenes. Actors will also be asked to provide their own shoes, typically a pair of solid black shoes depending on the character. Other costume pieces are provided except in very special circumstances.
If any of the above rules dealing with class conduct are being violated we do have procedures and consequences in place for reconciling these issues or any dispute that may occur as part of drama.
The Director will deal with issues during class when able.
If students or parents have concerns related to happenings in TPS class, they are encouraged to issue a complaint, concern, or suggestion in the following manner:
Schedule a meeting with the Director outside of class. This will ensure that your concern can be properly heard and addressed. (Note: Severe cases of bullying or threat of harm must be brought to the director’s attention immediately.)
If you feel your concern is not being addressed, you may then submit a formal statement in writing to the Board of Directors. The Board will make sure to address the concern in a timely manner and in accordance with our policies.
Consequences of failing to follow our rules and policies range from being asked not to participate in a class, losing an assigned role, or dismissal from the program.
Health and Safety Protocols:.
In case of emergency students will be evacuated to the courtyard. Parents will be notified for immediate pickup.
In case of accident or injury the parents will be immediately notified. TPS will fill out an incident report. Parents/Guardians are required to sign this report. A copy will be shared with the parent or guardian.
Sick Policy: Students who have had a fever or have been vomiting within 24 hours of class times must not attend class and must let the Director know as soon as possible.
The Dramatic Arts are often very physical. While we do warm up before rehearsals it is strongly recommended that students stretch prior to class and bring water in a sealed container.
Students are expected to leave with a parent/guardian at the end of class. If your student will be riding with another family or will be picked up by someone other than yourself the Director must be informed in writing prior to class.
Emergency contact: It is important to note that the Director will not see texts that come in during class time. The group chat will be checked only before and after class or during breaks. If you have an emergency you must call the director directly (864-321-2510).
Please inform the Director in writing of any allergies or dietary restrictions for your student(s). Medications can only be administered with written permission. It is best that students bring their own headache medicine, etc… rather than ask the director or classmates.
In case of dire medical emergency 911 will be contacted immediately.
Theatre Etiquette:
Live theatre is a thrilling experience for both participants and audience members. Going to see a stage show or musical is not the same as going to a movie or even a music concert. As such, there are rules that audience members should know and separate rules that actors and crew must follow as well.
Audience Rules:
Doors open half an hour before the curtain. It is always best to be at the theater and ready to enter when the doors open ensuring you can find your seat, use the restroom, read your program and help the show start on time.
Photos and video recordings are prohibited. It is illegal in most cases and distracting almost always. Exceptions are made for professionals only.
Tuck your bags or personal belongings under the seat especially if you are on the aisle. Actors will sometimes use the aisles for entrances and exits, even some of the action. Be sure these ways are clear.
Visit the restroom before the show, after the show, or at intermission. Avoid leaving while the actors are on stage.
Turn off your cell phone. Silent mode and airplane mode can still cause issues as alarms, emergency notifications, etc... can still go off.
Open snacks before the show begins. The crinkling of wrappers can disturb those around you.
Applause is almost always appropriate. In general, if there is a blackout between scenes, at the end of a musical number, or at the conclusion of a dramatic, intense or funny scene, applause can be appropriate and even appreciated. When in doubt, follow the audience around you. It should be noted that while applause is wonderful, screams, whistles and other calls are not proper theater behavior.
No talking. Remember, those are live actors on the stage. If you are talking loudly enough for your neighbor to hear you the actors may very well be able to hear you also.
Keep your comments neutral or positive. Everyone enjoys things in different ways and not all plays will appeal to all audiences. However, while at the theater keep your comments away from the negative as you never know if an actor’s family or friends may be near enough to hear you.
At the end of the show it is best to exit the auditorium as quickly as possible. Often the cast and crew will be available for photos or autographs in the lobby or by the Stage Door. When in doubt, listen for instruction and follow examples.
Actor and Crew Performance Rules:
Be on time always. This rule applies to all call times during rehearsals and performance days.
Be prepared by bringing any personal item that you need for the performance: water, cough drops, script and notes, fan, makeup, hair accessories, facial cleansers, pen, etc.
Cell phones and other electronics are not permitted backstage or in the wings. All devices will be collected prior to places and be returned at the end of the evening.
Food is not permitted in the wings or backstage. Sugary drinks are strongly discouraged. Water however is essential and should always be part of your “backstage kit.”
Props and costumes must never be moved or played with while backstage. You do not want to be the reason that something is broken or not in the correct place when needed. Issues with any costume item or prop must be reported to the stage manager or director immediately.
There must be no talking in the wings. Your whispers carry and are distracting to your fellow cast members and to the audience. This includes your downtime during rehearsal.
Refrain from making comments during the show. Now is NOT the time to tell someone about the line they missed or the mark they did not hit. Encouraging speech is always best.
Once you have been called to places you must never go into the audience, peek around the curtains or attempt to engage the audience. There will be time to talk with your fans after the show.
Visitors and audience members are not allowed backstage or in the wings.
Last Updated 5/28/2026