When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Kid's W.A.Y Acting Academy & Respect for Acting Academy/Adults
Why Kid's W.A.Y Acting Academy & Respect for Acting Academy/Adults is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Kid's W.A.Y Acting Academy and Respect for Acting Academy offer specialized acting training for both children and adults, making it an excellent meeting place for friends of all ages who share a passion for performing arts. With a stellar 4.9 rating from 66 reviews, these academies provide a supportive and engaging environment where students can explore their creativity and build their confidence through hands-on performance opportunities. Highlights include age-tailored curricula that challenge and inspire, from foundational skills for kids to advanced techniques for adults. Both academies emphasize respect for the craft, nurturing not just acting talent but also discipline, teamwork, and self-expression. The locations often host showcases and workshops that create lively communal experiences, perfect for friends to attend or participate together. Whether you’re looking to start a journey in acting or elevate your skills, these academies create a welcoming, motivating atmosphere that makes meeting up not just social but artistically rewarding.
Here's what people think of Kid's W.A.Y Acting Academy & Respect for Acting Academy/Adults
As of recent, Kid's W.A.Y Acting Academy & Respect for Acting Academy/Adults holds a 4.9-star rating based on 66 reviews.
Users overwhelmingly praise Kid's W.A.Y Acting Academy and Respect for Acting Academy for their highly professional and nurturing instructors, who effectively engage students of all experience levels. Many positive reviews highlight the personalized attention given, whether to children or adult learners, and applaud the dynamic class structures and encouraging atmosphere that foster great growth in acting skills. Testimonials frequently mention the community feel within the schools, which helps students build lasting friendships while pursuing their passion. On the other hand, a few negative reviews occasionally cite limited class availability or scheduling challenges, but these remarks are relatively minor compared to the predominantly positive experiences. Overall, the reviews reflect a strong satisfaction with the quality of teaching, supportive environment, and the performance opportunities provided, making these academies a top choice for aspiring actors seeking both skill development and camaraderie.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
BradandDana Bozeman
Jossie is an amazing coach that balances love and professionalism beautifully. She is more like a life coach than an acting coach. She makes sure that your child is well rounded and identifies areas of challenge while building them up. Her connections and experience are invaluable. I am so grateful that she is a part of my daughter’s village.
Ebony Weston
My family and I are so grateful for the outstanding work that Jossie puts in toward coaching our son. In her academy, she gives him roles to rehearse that are beneficial at helping him perfect his creativity and gift. She also have options to assist with auditions. With Jossie’s coaching and guidance my son was more prepared while performing on Broadway, theater plays, monologues, and more. Jossie is amazing and knowledgeable in this field.
Cassie Garrett
I’m so thankful to have Jossie as a coach to my son. Since she has worked with him, he has gotten greater responses from casting and his confidence has grown. She dose not only become a coach, but she becomes family. I know and trust that she will take care of my son the same way I would. She truly has his best interest at heart and I love and respect her for that. You cannot fail and you will not be disappointed with Jossie on your side.
Vena Cherian
Not only is Jossie a phenomenal acting coach, but she also acts like a life coach for her W.A.Y students in many ways. She truly loves all of her students and appreciates who they are as individuals. She assess each student's needs and talents and works with them on their specific goals. She inspires those who are interested in acting professionally and will connect these students to auditions and potential work. Her name is trusted in the industry. Even if your kids are not interested in acting professionally, Jossie's classes help children develop confidence, improve reading comprehension and spark creativity. Since taking acting classes, my daughter's teachers have commented on on her confidence, her reading and public speaking skills. I have noticed that she is becoming more organized and getting much better at time management. Jossie's classes are demanding yet fun and my daughter looks forward to class every Saturday. Jossie's energy is infectious and she truly adores her W.A.Y family.
Na-Tae' Thompson
Ms. Jossie is an amazing spirit. My son started group classes and private lessons with Kids WAY a few years ago and I have seen great growth in his skill-set. My son is a public speaker and actor. Because of Jossie's dedication, he is more confident, vocal and polished. My so has addressed audiences of 25 to as many as 15,000 and thanks to her coaching, he is always prepared. I recommend Kid's WAY to any parent who is looking for a nurturing environment for their youth.
How to reach Kid's W.A.Y Acting Academy & Respect for Acting Academy/Adults
None
Website: None
Why Kid's W.A.Y Acting Academy & Respect for Acting Academy/Adults may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Kid's W.A.Y Acting Academy & Respect for Acting Academy/Adults with your friends? This vibrant and highly rated academy, boasting a stellar 4.9 rating from 66 reviews, offers much more than traditional acting classes. It’s a dynamic hub where creativity, expression, and camaraderie come alive, making it an ideal destination for a fun and enriching meetup. Friends gathering here are not just spectators but active participants in an engaging, confidence-building journey through the art of acting. The environment encourages collaboration, communication, and mutual support, crafting memorable shared experiences. Whether young talents or adults, attendees find a welcoming space to express themselves freely, try new skills, and bond through team activities. This academy offers not just lessons in acting but lessons in life, boosting self-assurance, social skills, and personal growth, which are ideal for groups seeking meaningful, entertaining, and transformative get-togethers. Its enthusiastic community atmosphere ensures that every meetup turns into an energetic, creative celebration, making it a standout choice for friends and family looking to connect on a deeper and more inspiring level.
What activities can we expect at Kid's W.A.Y Acting Academy & Respect for Acting Academy/Adults? The academy provides a variety of structured, professionally crafted acting classes tailored for different age groups, including kids, teens, and adults. Classes focus on building foundational acting skills such as scene study, character development, improvisation, voice modulation, and emotional expression, all guided by experienced instructors. These activities are designed to be interactive and engaging, promoting teamwork and communication within each session. For kids, imaginative play and drama games are common, seamlessly blending fun with educational value. Adults encounter opportunities for both in-person and online coaching sessions, where they can develop their craft in a supportive environment. Additionally, the academy organizes showcases and performances that allow participants to demonstrate their progress, encouraging a real sense of achievement and community involvement. This mix of learning, practice, and performance opportunities makes it a perfect venue for groups to engage in shared creative projects and collective growth.
Why is Kid's W.A.Y Acting Academy & Respect for Acting Academy/Adults perfect for group meetups? The academy’s design inherently supports social interaction and group dynamics, which are fundamental for group meetups. Because acting is a collaborative art, sessions emphasize cooperative exercises that require participants to work together, listen actively, and build trust. This nurtures friendships and creates a supportive space where participants feel safe experimenting and expressing themselves. The academy's welcoming atmosphere, combined with expert coaching, encourages everyone to participate fully regardless of prior experience, making it inclusive and adaptive to any group’s needs. Moreover, the flexible class formats—mixing online and in-person options for adults and kids—allow for convenience and accessibility, making it easy to organize sessions around friends' schedules. Events and workshops often culminate in performances that serve as shared goals, rallying groups around creative achievements and fun celebrations. The safe, structured yet lively environment ensures that groups leave not only entertained but enriched personally and socially.
What unique benefits does this acting academy offer for friends and family gatherings? Beyond the obvious fun of stepping into different characters and acting out scenes, this academy delivers significant personal and interpersonal benefits that enhance any group event. Participants often find their confidence soaring, a critical advantage particularly for shy or reserved individuals. It also improves communication skills, making it easier for people to express themselves clearly and confidently in all areas of life. The academy’s focus on respect and teamwork helps build empathy and understanding among group members, strengthening bonds. For families, it creates a unique chance to experience creative learning side by side, promoting quality time that is both educational and enjoyable. The positive feedback from past attendees consistently highlights improvements in social dynamics, presentation skills, and emotional intelligence, making these gatherings more than just entertainment but powerful vehicles for growth and connection.
How does the academy maintain its high-quality reputation and stellar 4.9 rating? This impressive rating reflects a consistent track record of top-notch instruction, friendly environment, and tangible results for participants. Reviews often praise the academy’s skilled instructors who engage students with a mix of professionalism and warmth, demonstrating a deep commitment to each individual's progress. The structure of classes, combining proven acting techniques with modern, relatable teaching methods, ensures that students quickly see improvement and enjoy their learning journey. Moreover, the academy’s strong emphasis on respect and encouragement fosters a positive culture, making attendees feel valued and motivated. The communication and organizational aspects, such as clear scheduling and support, receive high marks as well, contributing to a smooth, stress-free experience for groups. This holistic approach to acting education and community building is central to why so many give outstanding reviews and why groups have trusted the academy for memorable meetups.
What makes the environment at Kid's W.A.Y Acting Academy & Respect for Acting Academy/Adults especially welcoming and inclusive? The academy prides itself on creating a judgment-free zone where every person, regardless of age or background, feels comfortable exploring their creativity. This inclusivity is reflected in the diverse age range of classes—catering to kids, teens, and adults—each designed to meet participants where they are in their acting experience. The staff is trained to foster respect among students, highlighting kindness and collaboration as core values. Testimonials show that students frequently experience personal breakthroughs, such as overcoming stage fright or bullying habits, underscoring the supportive atmosphere. The balance between structured curriculum and playful exercises helps beginners and seasoned actors alike feel challenged without pressure. For group visitors, this means coming into a positive, open space where differences are celebrated and friendships are easily formed, making meetups comfortable and meaningful for everyone involved.
How can groups make the most of their visit to Kid's W.A.Y Acting Academy & Respect for Acting Academy/Adults? To optimize the experience, groups can book classes or workshops that suit their composition and goals—choosing from beginners’ introductions to more advanced acting techniques. Engaging in teamwork-oriented exercises helps deepen the bond between friends or family members. Participation in group performances or showcases can be a highlight, offering a shared goal to prepare for and celebrate together. Complementing classes with social time on-site or nearby can enhance the meetup, letting participants discuss their experiences and build connection beyond acting. Groups are encouraged to take advantage of both online and in-person options, tailoring the experience to their convenience. Finally, communicating with academy staff beforehand ensures the session fits the group’s interests and expectations, letting them craft an event that balances fun, creativity, and education perfectly.
What role does this academy play in cultivating lasting friendships and personal growth? The combination of acting’s inherent reliance on trust, empathy, and communication makes this academy a powerful catalyst for strong social bonds. Members often share stories of newfound confidence and fresh friendships blossoming during their courses. The academy offers a platform where people learn not just to perform, but to listen, support, and collaborate—skills essential both on stage and in friendships. Through activities that require emotional vulnerability and teamwork, individuals grow physically, mentally, and socially. Groups find that the academy experience transcends a typical meetup by leaving a lasting impact on personal development and community connection. This sustained influence is reflected in the continued support and return visits from many families and friends, turning casual meetups into ongoing creative partnerships.
What kinds of performance opportunities are available at the academy for groups? The academy regularly schedules showcases, end-of-session performances, and special events where students can perform before an audience. These events are designed to be accessible and enjoyable, allowing even novice actors to experience the thrill of the stage in a supportive setting. For groups, participating in these performances is a bonding experience that culminates their collaborative efforts. The performances provide real-world application of skills learned in class, boosting confidence and giving tangible proof of growth. The academy’s encouragement of public speaking and presentation helps participants overcome nervousness and develop poise, valuable skills transferable outside the academy doors. These showcases often become highlight occasions for meetups, creating wonderful memories and a sense of shared accomplishment among friends and family.
How accessible is Kid's W.A.Y Acting Academy & Respect for Acting Academy/Adults for all group types? The academy’s flexible class options cater to a wide audience, from children taking their first acting steps to adults seeking serious craft development or recreational engagement. Offering both online and in-person classes widens accessibility geographically and schedule-wise, making it an excellent choice for groups balancing various commitments. The staff’s welcoming approach makes it easy for group organizers to find classes that match their collective skill level and interest, ensuring no one feels left out. The facility itself is designed to be comfortable and accommodating, supporting diverse learning and participation styles. Whether friends are local or connecting virtually, the academy’s inclusive infrastructure helps ensure that everyone in the group enjoys the experience fully.
What future opportunities could groups explore after joining the academy? Beyond initial classes and meetups, the academy’s environment encourages ongoing involvement in the performing arts community. Students may find paths to auditions, advanced workshops, or even professional coaching that the academy facilitates through its network and expertise. For groups, this means that a meetup at the academy can be the start of a rewarding shared journey into acting or related creative fields. The academy’s nurturing of personal talent alongside group dynamics opens doors to further artistic exploration, community engagement, and even career opportunities for those interested. Staying connected through the academy’s newsletters and special events keeps the group inspired and informed, fostering continual growth together. Thus, meeting up here offers not only immediate joy and learning but also the foundation for lasting creative collaboration and friendship.