Testimonials

We’re so grateful for the support of our Riverside Parents…

“My girls have participated in many Riverside Theatre Arts programs including full theatre productions, workshops and master classes. I can't say enough about the positive impact these experiences have had on both of my kids. As a parent, I appreciate that the kids are treated with respect and the learning process is as important as the end result of the production.

In addition to learning critical technical skills such as character development, blocking, projecting, and singing, they have learned invaluable life skills as well. They are open to feedback ('can I give you some Notes?'), they are focused on continuous improvement, and they can work as a team (a show can't go on without an ensemble).

If you asked my girls, they will tell you: Riverside is a family....everyone gets a special moment and a chance to shine on stage, even if you aren't a lead part...you can always be yourself at Riverside, everyone is accepted for who they are!

In addition to all of this, they put on great performances and have a lot of fun!”

-Christine Lohrfink Diaz, parent of two Riverside students

“Finding Riverside Theatre Arts was truly a dream come true! By first grade, we had discovered that our daughter's greatest passion was musical theatre. We questioned how we could possibly nurture her gifts, while being far from theatre groups in Westchester and NYC. That following summer, we heard about RTA. I remember it as if it were yesterday...as soon as I picked her up from her first day of summer intensive, she was ELATED! She could not stop talking about her instructors and the children she had met. It was evident that we had found the perfect fit for our girl!

RTA is a place that provides top-notch performing arts education, while nurturing and empowering their students! I've always said, RTA is not a theatre group but a theatre family! This will be our 5th year with RTA and I can already predict that our daughter will find a way to remain with them until she's off to college! If your child is a thespian in the making, don't wait any longer...hurry up and join our family!”

-Lily Diaz-Withers, parent of Riverside student

“How fortunate we are to have Riverside Theatre Arts here in the Hudson Valley, I cannot say enough positive things about this program. Laurie and her team are extremely talented, supportive, kind, and caring. Riverside partners with several accomplished directors, musicians, and choreographers from NYC. All of who use their expertise to bring out the best in these young performers, the results are truly amazing. Participants learn all aspects of putting on a production and work together as a cast, everyone feels like they are actively participating and contributing to the show. My son never complains about sitting around waiting for something to do, they are always learning or doing something new. The feedback from Laurie and her staff to participants is positive and encouraging, while expectations and standards are high. My son cannot wait to come back.”

-Joanna Orkoulas, parent of Riverside student

“My daughter has been a part of Riverside Theatre Arts for 6 years. She immediately fell in love with them. Everyone is kind and inclusive. She gets to work with some of the most talented Broadway professionals in the business and most importantly she has fun! The opportunities Riverside gives our children is invaluable and I can't thank them enough for what they do. I highly recommend Riverside Theatre Arts if your looking for a Theatre program for your child.”

-DeeDee Faranda, parent of Riverside student

“The Riverside Theatre Company is a well-oiled machine. They produced “Honk” in less than five days and the production itself was spectacular! Our daughter loved the immersive experience and it has completely reinforced her interest in drama and the arts. Under the stewardship of Laurie and Livi Perrone this company is in great hands. We plan on having both of our daughters in their productions for years to come.”

-Christy Larkin, Cornwall-On-Hudson PTO president

“My now 11 year old daughter, Mia, has participated in Riverside since she was in 1st grade, starting with "Annie and the Newsies." We have always been impressed with the level of professionalism and caring that Riverside brings to their young performers. We have enjoyed many years of both summer and fall acting workshops and theater camp performances. The directors are always top notch. Always striving to help their performers reach their potential on stage. Mia has made lasting friendships with her fellow cast mates and we look forward to many more in years to come. Thanks Riverside!”

-Charisse Pagano, parent of Riverside student